NFL · 2 hours ago

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Charles Davis’s Predictions for Every First-Round Pick

John Canady

Host · Writer

32) Seattle Seahawks: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 205

Dillon Thieneman finished 2025 with 92 tackles, five pass defenses, two interceptions, and one sack, serving as the heartbeat of the secondary. Thieneman blends instincts and quickness to impact both phases of the game, showing the versatility to play deep, step into the box, or match up in coverage when needed.

"The Super Bowl Champs add to their vaunted 'Dark Side' defense with a rangy safety to complement 2025 rookie sensation Nick Emmanwori." - Davis

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1) Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 225

Fernando Mendoza elevated his game in 2025, completing 72.0% of his passes for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and six interceptions over 16 games, while adding seven rushing touchdowns. He also significantly improved his pocket management, reducing his sack total from 41 to 25 by speeding up his reads and trusting his progressions.

Though not defined by elite arm strength, Mendoza thrives on anticipation, touch, and rhythm, consistently keeping his offense on schedule within structure.

"No surprise here. The Raiders take the Heisman Trophy-winning national champion to begin anew at quarterback." - Davis

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2) New York Jets: LB/EDGE Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 243

Arvell Reese filled up the stat sheet in 2025 with 69 tackles, nine tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, nine run stops, and two pass breakups across 14 games. His range and activity level are consistently evident on film.

Reese plays fast and downhill, triggering quickly once he diagnoses plays. His burst as a blitzer and willingness to attack the run make him a disruptive presence at multiple levels of the defense.

"The Jets need a full-on talent infusion, and Reese might be the best overall player in this year's draft." - Davis
3) Arizona Cardinals: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 315

Francis Mauigoa started 15 games in 2025 and surrendered just two sacks, anchoring the right side with physical, consistent play. His power is evident in the run game, where he routinely controls defenders at the point of attack.

With heavy hands and strong base balance, Mauigoa overwhelms rushers once engaged. His size and strength profile give him the versatility to remain at tackle or transition inside if needed.

"The Cardinals must improve on the offensive line under new head coach Mike LaFleur. Mauigoa brings a dose of nastiness to the unit." - Davis
4) Tennessee Titans: EDGE David Bailey, Texas Tech
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 250

David Bailey erupted in 2025 with 76 tackles, 23 tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks, 71 pressures, eight run stops, three forced fumbles, and four pass breakups across 14 games. His sack total matched his combined output from three previous seasons in just one year.

Bailey blends speed, power, and refined technique, making him a relentless edge presence capable of disrupting both rushing attacks and passing games consistently.

"Robert Saleh would have a nice foundation to work with up front on defense." - Davis
5) New York Giants: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 302

Spencer Fano started 12 games at right tackle in 2025 and allowed zero sacks, providing steady protection off the edge. Winning with technique and hand placement rather than sheer length, Fano uses balance, strength, and awareness to neutralize pass rushers while holding his own in the run game. His consistency makes him a dependable presence up front.

"The Giants believe in QB Jaxson Dart. Now they need to make sure they protect him." - Davis
6) Cleveland Browns: WR Makai Lemon, USC
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 195

Makai Lemon turned in a standout 2025 season with 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns across 12 games. Ranking among the nation’s leaders in receiving production, Lemon attacks the ball in the air and thrives after the catch, using quickness and explosiveness to generate chunk plays.

"Big plays have come at a premium for Cleveland. Lemon will help create more." - Davis
7) Washington Commanders: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 190

Mansoor Delane recorded 35 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and two interceptions over 11 games in 2025, showcasing steady production in the secondary. Comfortable in both man and zone schemes, Delane relies on instincts and ball skills to stay in phase and consistently challenge receivers at the catch point.

"The top cornerback in the draft heads to Washington, which should be making major investments on defense this offseason." - Davis
8) New Orleans Saints: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 195

Carnell Tate posted 51 receptions for 875 yards and nine touchdowns over 11 games in 2025, averaging 17.2 yards per catch. Tate stretches defenses vertically with size and smooth route-running, consistently creating separation and turning routine targets into explosive plays downfield.

"The Saints found their QB in the 2025 draft with the selection of Tyler Shough. Now they give him a big-play threat to play opposite Chris Olave." - Davis
9) Kansas City Chiefs: EDGE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 275

Rueben Bain Jr. dominated opposing backfields in 2025, recording 64 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, 68 pressures, eight run stops, one forced fumble, and one interception across 16 games. Bain wins with power and refined technique, using a violent rip move and impressive bend to corner off the edge. His strength, burst, and instincts make him a constant disruptive force.

"The best move for Kansas City would be to trade down and acquire more picks. In this scenario, they stick and add another pass rusher." - Davis
10) Cincinnati Bengals: LB Sonny Styles, Cincinnati Bengals
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 243

Sonny Styles delivered a breakout 2025 campaign, compiling 77 tackles, seven tackles for loss, nine run stops, three pass breakups, one interception, one forced fumble, and one sack over 14 games. As a former safety, Styles brings rare speed and burst to the linebacker position. His instincts and range allow him to diagnose quickly, track quarterbacks, and close on plays with urgency.

"Playmakers are needed on all three levels of the defense. I know the Bengals spent second- and fourth-round picks on linebackers in last year’s draft, but Styles is a top-five talent they cannot pass up." - Davis
11) Miami Dolphins: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 205

Caleb Downs totaled 67 tackles, five tackles for loss, two interceptions, one sack, and six run stops over 14 games in 2025, continuing to show his all-around impact. With high-level instincts and football intelligence, Downs processes quickly and reacts decisively, pairing awareness with athleticism to provide versatility throughout the secondary.

"First-year GM Jon-Eric Sullivan begins his new duties by giving head coach Jeff Hafley a big-time player for his secondary." - Davis
12) Dallas Cowboys: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 193

Jermod McCoy missed the 2025 season due to injury, but his previous production keeps him firmly in early-round consideration. In 2024, he posted four interceptions and nine pass breakups after recording two interceptions in 2023. McCoy’s instincts and ball skills stand out on film, as he consistently locates the football and makes plays when targeted.

"McCoy missed all of last season after suffering an ACL tear, so his draft slotting could come down to how teams assess his medical evaluation. If he’s healthy, McCoy might be the best cover corner available." - Davis
13) Los Angeles Rams: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 200

Jordyn Tyson finished 2025 with 61 catches for 711 yards and eight touchdowns in just nine games despite battling injury. A polished route-runner with strong ball skills, Tyson consistently separates from defenders and wins in contested situations, giving him reliable red-zone and chain-moving value.

"Time is of the essence for 2025 MVP Matthew Stafford. The Rams add another flyer to his arsenal." - Davis
14) Baltimore Ravens: EDGE Keldric Faulk, Auburn
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 285

Keldric Faulk recorded 44 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, 29 pressures, and 11 run stops over 12 games in 2025. Faulk pairs length and power with a diverse pass-rush approach, showing the ability to win both around the edge and inside. His size and athletic traits give him significant upside as he continues to refine his consistency.

"Faulk's talents fit the Ravens’ profile. He’s a versatile, hard-charging pass rusher." - Davis
15) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: EDGE Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 248

Cashius Howell broke out in 2025 with 11.5 sacks and one forced fumble, continuing to build on a career total of 27 sacks and 35.5 tackles for loss. Howell wins with an explosive first step and nonstop motor, consistently stressing tackles off the edge. While still developing into a complete three-down defender, his blend of speed, strength, and production gives him immediate impact potential.

"There will be a lot of talk about Howell having shorter arms, but the tape shows an Aggie who plays every snap with intensity. Todd Bowles could use more juice off the edge." - Davis
16) New York Jets: IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 330

Olaivavega Ioane started 11 games at left guard in 2025 and allowed zero sacks, controlling defenders at the point of attack. Despite his size, Ioane moves well in space, reaching the second level and sustaining blocks with power and technique. His strength and balance make him a dominant interior presence.

"After drafting a pass rusher with the second overall pick, the Jets take a rugged people-mover at guard to continue their inside-out rebuild." - Davis
17) Detroit Lions: EDGE Akheem Mesidor, Miami
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 280

Akheem Mesidor totaled 63 tackles, 12.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles in 2025, emerging as one of the most disruptive edge defenders in the country. Mesidor blends power and burst with sharp instincts, consistently collapsing pockets and forcing turnovers. His physical profile and pass-rush productivity project well to a 4-3 defensive end role.

"Mesidor is a force off the edge. Lions Pro Bowler Aidan Hutchinson certainly approves of this selection, although Detroit might opt to address the offensive line here." - Davis
18) Minnesota Vikings: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 214

Jeremiyah Love erupted in 2025 with 1,372 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns on 199 carries, while adding 27 receptions for 280 yards and three scores in 12 games. He also forced 60 missed tackles, highlighting his elusiveness. Love blends vision, acceleration, and contact balance, consistently turning small creases into explosive gains and impacting both the run and passing game.

"Are teams undervaluing the running back position again? The Vikings cannot pass on a top-three talent in this year’s draft. Head coach Kevin O'Connell will find plenty of plays for him." - Davis
19) Carolina Panthers: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 326

Kayden McDonald broke out in 2025 with 67 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, 17 run stops, and two forced fumbles across 14 games. After limited roles in prior seasons, McDonald showcased elite strength and quickness inside, pairing improved play recognition with physical dominance to become a true interior disruptor.

"After a surprising drive to the top of the NFC South last season, the Panthers keep building up their defense with a rising interior talent. Carolina must do a better job against the run, and McDonald helps in that effort." - Davis
20) Dallas Cowboys: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 202

Emmanuel McNeil-Warren recorded 77 tackles, six pass defenses, three forced fumbles, two interceptions, and 0.5 sacks in 2025, serving as a playmaking presence in the secondary. With size, range, and strong instincts, McNeil-Warren impacts the game at multiple levels, showing the ability to patrol deep zones or step up and contribute near the line of scrimmage.

"The Cowboys seem to never take a true safety in the first round (SEE: Roy Williams in 2002). Could this year be different? Longtime starter Donovan Wilson is headed for free agency." - Davis
21) Pittsburgh Steelers: DT Peter Woods, Clemson
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 315

Peter Woods totaled 30 tackles, two sacks, and one pass defense in 2025, flashing the ability to impact the game from multiple interior alignments. Capable of lining up at both 1- and 3-technique, Woods blends size and quickness with developing pass-rush skills, giving him intriguing upside in an interior defensive line role.

"There will be plenty of buzz about picking a QB or WR here, but in this iteration, they look to replicate the waves of defensive linemen we’ve seen from Super Bowl-winning teams in recent years." - Davis
22) Los Angeles Chargers: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 195

Colton Hood produced 50 tackles, eight pass defenses, one interception, and one forced fumble in 2025, emerging as a steady contributor in the secondary. Hood relies on fluid movement and sharp instincts to stay in phase with receivers. While not overly physical, his timing and awareness allow him to affect plays consistently.

"Hood is not only a good cover corner but a fierce tackler, as well. That’s the brand of football Jim Harbaugh wants to play." - Davis
23) Philadelphia Eagles: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
Height: 6-7 | Weight: 315

Monroe Freeling brings prototypical size and athletic traits to the offensive line, using his length and mobility to create movement in the run game and sustain blocks in pass protection. Though still gaining experience, Freeling’s technical foundation and physical upside point to long-term starter potential with room to continue developing at the next level.

"The Eagles tend to fortify positions before a desperate situation develops. Freeling could be two-time first-team All-Pro OT Lane Johnson's eventual successor." - Davis
24) Cleveland Browns: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 304

Caleb Lomu started all 12 games at left tackle in 2025 and allowed zero sacks, continuing a run of consistent protection that includes just three sacks surrendered over more than 1,500 career snaps. Athletic and balanced, Lomu handles speed and counter moves effectively, pairing agility with strong technique to provide reliability in both pass protection and the run game.

"The Browns have too many holes on the offensive line to leave Round 1 without drafting at least one player who can help them up front." - Davis
25) Chicago Bears: DT Caleb Banks, Florida
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 330

Caleb Banks appeared in limited action in 2025 with six total tackles, but previously flashed upside at Florida, including 4.5 sacks in 2024. At 6-foot-6 and 330 pounds, Banks offers rare size and length along the interior. His earlier production and physical traits suggest untapped potential as a developmental defensive tackle with disruptive upside.

"Despite missing most of the 2025 season with a foot injury, Banks reignited excitement about his potential during Senior Bowl week. He provides the Bears with the push they want to create inside." - Davis
26) Buffalo Bills: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 209

Denzel Boston hauled in 62 receptions for 881 yards and 11 touchdowns across 12 games in 2025, averaging 14.2 yards per catch. Using his size and physicality to challenge defensive backs, Boston runs crisp routes and consistently finds soft spots in coverage, making him a reliable downfield weapon.

"It seems too easy. A WR to satisfy not just a team need and an elite QB, but a most invested fan base? Sounds good to me." - Davis
27) San Francisco 49ers: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 245

Kenyon Sadiq compiled 51 receptions for 560 yards and eight touchdowns over 14 games in 2025, with nearly half of his yardage coming after the catch. Sadiq’s speed and explosiveness create matchup problems, and his competitiveness as both a receiver and blocker adds versatility to his profile.

"The 49ers specialize in selecting players that perfectly fit the vision for where they’re going as a team." - Davis
28) Houston Texans: EDGE Zion Young, Missouri
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 262

Zion Young totaled 42 tackles, 6.5 sacks, two pass defenses, and two forced fumbles in 2025, emerging as a disruptive and versatile presence off the edge. Young plays with steady power and a relentless motor, setting a firm edge against the run while consistently collapsing the pocket and creating turnover opportunities.

"One of the best defenses in the NFL adds to its bag of riches along the defensive front." - Davis
29) Los Angeles Rams: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 180

Avieon Terrell delivered a breakout 2025 season with 48 tackles, nine pass defenses, five forced fumbles, and three sacks. Terrell’s fluid hips and quick feet allow him to mirror receivers, while his aggressiveness and knack for creating turnovers add versatility both outside and in the slot.

"Is Terrell a nickelback-only at the next level? Can he also play outside? I see a complete corner who can cover and is willing to tackle, as well." - Davis
30) Denver Broncos: EDGE R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 249

R Mason Thomas recorded 26 tackles, 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one pass defense in 2025, showcasing his ability to pressure the quarterback. Thomas wins with burst and leverage off the edge, pairing quickness with physicality to generate pressure while holding his own against the run.

"Broncos Pro Bowler Nik Bonitto is the pass-rushing leader of a defensive line on a multi-season tear. His fellow former Sooner will be eager to join the party." - Davis
31) New England Patriots: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 330

Max Iheanachor brings imposing size and length to the offensive line at 6-foot-6, 330 pounds. A powerful presence in the trenches, Iheanachor uses strength and reach to control defenders at the point of attack, projecting as a physically dominant lineman with developmental upside.

"Iheanachor is exactly what the Pats need: More young talent for the offensive line. He would immediately compete for snaps at right tackle." - Davis
32) Seattle Seahawks: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 205

Dillon Thieneman finished 2025 with 92 tackles, five pass defenses, two interceptions, and one sack, serving as the heartbeat of the secondary. Thieneman blends instincts and quickness to impact both phases of the game, showing the versatility to play deep, step into the box, or match up in coverage when needed.

"The Super Bowl Champs add to their vaunted 'Dark Side' defense with a rangy safety to complement 2025 rookie sensation Nick Emmanwori." - Davis

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1) Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 225

Fernando Mendoza elevated his game in 2025, completing 72.0% of his passes for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and six interceptions over 16 games, while adding seven rushing touchdowns. He also significantly improved his pocket management, reducing his sack total from 41 to 25 by speeding up his reads and trusting his progressions.

Though not defined by elite arm strength, Mendoza thrives on anticipation, touch, and rhythm, consistently keeping his offense on schedule within structure.

"No surprise here. The Raiders take the Heisman Trophy-winning national champion to begin anew at quarterback." - Davis

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