The 2026 NFL Draft wasted no time making noise. The Las Vegas Raiders opened the night by selecting Fernando Mendoza, and the choice felt both obvious and risky. Mendoza dominated college football, and his numbers backed up the hype in every way. He looked calm under pressure, threw with touch, and moved well inside the pocket. The Raiders needed a face of the franchise, and they got one.
Still, some hesitation lingered around how fast he rose after transferring. That kind of jump can trick teams into overvaluing one great season. Even so, the upside is too strong to ignore. This pick lands in the A range, though a few cautious voices lean slightly lower.
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The New York Jets followed by grabbing David Bailey, and the move filled a glaring need. Bailey can rush the passer at a high level, and his speed off the edge stands out right away. He brings energy to a defense that lost a key piece, and he should start early.
Arizona made one of the boldest calls by taking Jeremiyah Love at third overall. Running backs rarely go that high, but Love is not a typical prospect. He combines speed, size, and power in a way that turns heads instantly. He can break tackles and outrun defenders on the same play.
Mid-Round Chaos and Big Gambles
Tate / IG / Tennessee added Carnell Tate, and this is where opinions started to split. Tate runs sharp routes and catches everything near him.
However, the issue comes from his lack of elite production in college. The 21-year-old wide receiver never crossed the top statistical tier, and his speed raised questions. Some saw a smart fit, others saw a reach. That gap explains why grades ranged from strong to shaky.
The Giants made a big move with Arvell Reese, and this one drew praise. Reese brings speed, size, and versatility to the defense. He can rush, cover, and chase plays sideline to sideline. He also joins a defense already loaded with talent.
This pick feels like a long-term anchor for their system. Coaches love players who can do multiple jobs, and Reese fits that mold. Most analysts called this one of the safest and smartest picks early in the draft.
Kansas City shook things up by trading up for Mansoor Delane. The Chiefs clearly saw a need and acted fast to fix it. Delane can press at the line and handle different coverage schemes, which makes him valuable right away.
Medical concerns caused him to slide, but the talent is clear. Kansas City took a calculated risk, and it could pay off big. The move earned strong grades, though a few experts stayed cautious due to health questions.
New Orleans took a gamble with Jordyn Tyson, and it was hard to ignore the risk. Tyson has clear talent and can make highlight plays. He attacks the ball in the air and brings a strong physical presence.
Late Round Drama and Steals
Downs / IG / Dallas made one of the smartest moves by trading up for Caleb Downs. Downs stands out as a complete safety with strong instincts and leadership.
This pick filled a major need for the Cowboys' defense. Many experts called it a steal, especially given his talent level. It earned one of the highest grades of the night without much debate.
The Rams created the biggest shock by selecting Ty Simpson. Most projections had him going later, which made this pick feel forced. Los Angeles clearly believes in his long-term potential.
Still, the value did not match the spot. Critics pointed out that the team could have traded down and still landed him. That decision led to some of the lowest grades given to any pick.
Minnesota added Caleb Banks, and this move raised eyebrows. Banks missed most of the season, which made him a risky choice in the first round. The Vikings have taken similar risks before, and the results have been mixed.