Wednesday, March 4, 2026

NFL Mock Draft 2026: Edition 3 (Combine Edition)

Arvell Reese, Ohio State 

 1. Las Vegas Raiders

Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

The Combine may have thrown much of the first round into disarray, but there's no question at the top. Fernando Mendoza didn't even work out in Indianapolis, but still remains the heavy favorite to be the No. 1 overall off the board in late April. It's starting to feel more like a question of what else the Raiders will do to surround Mendoza with the right pieces than whether the reigning Heisman winner will be on his way to Las Vegas.

2. New York Jets

Arvell Reese, DE/LB, Ohio State

Things get interesting with the Jets at the No. 2 spot. Their most obvious need remains quarterback, but there's nobody in this range that makes sense. So instead, pass rusher seems to be the consensus selection here, with Arvell Reese, David Bailey, and Rueben Bain Jr. the top candidates. Bailey was a sack machine at Texas Tech, but to me, Reese has the higher ceiling in what he can be as a pro. It's no surprise to me the Buckeye product had a superb Combine - he's a physical freak who still has time grow into his 6'4", 240-pound frame.

3. Arizona Cardinals

David Bailey, DE/LB, Texas Tech

It's an important offseason for the Cardinals, who have to find a way forward in an NFC West that includes three of not only the best teams in the conference, but the NFL. Offensive line is in consideration here, but it's hard to imagine Arizona being able to pass up a player like David Bailey in this spot. Bailey was the most dominant rusher in all of the land this past fall, notching 14.5 sacks, 19.5 TFL, and a 20.2% pressure percentage for the Red Raiders.

4. Tennessee Titans

Francis Mauigoa, OL, Miami (FL)