2026 NFL Mock Draft 1.0: Raiders take Fernando Mendoza, Steelers land Ty Simpson - NBC Sports
The NFL Draft is just around the corner, and with it, the anticipation for the future of each team is at an all-time high. But who will be the first to make their move? This mock draft takes a look at the potential first-round picks, with a focus on the Raiders and Steelers.
Raiders' Long-Term Answer at Quarterback
The Las Vegas Raiders are set to select Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana. Mendoza's play-action abilities and downfield attack make him a perfect fit for Klint Kubiak's strategy. His incredible 2025 season, highlighted by a Heisman Trophy nomination, has solidified his place as the team's long-term answer at quarterback.
Steelers' Future at Quarterback
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers are looking ahead to the future of their quarterback position. With Aaron Rodgers' return uncertain, the team is considering Ty Simpson from Alabama. Simpson's pre-snap IQ and intermediate throwing abilities make him a strong contender for the first-round selection.
Controversial Pick: Denzel Boston for the Jets
The New York Jets' pick at number 13 is a controversial one. Instead of going with a defensive player, the team selects Denzel Boston, a wide receiver from Washington. Boston's big frame and ball-hauling abilities could bring a much-needed element to the Jets' receiving room. However, some may argue that a defensive player would have been a more strategic choice.
Panthers' Impact Off-Ball Linebacker
The Carolina Panthers are looking to improve their front seven. They select CJ Allen, a tenacious and high IQ linebacker from Georgia, to help terrorize the run game. Allen's leadership and ability to impact the game off-ball make him a valuable addition to the team.
Chargers' Offensive Line Upgrade
The Los Angeles Chargers are looking to upgrade their offensive line. They select Spencer Fano, an athletic offensive lineman from Utah, who can start at guard in Mike McDaniel's offense. Fano's versatility and athleticism make him a strong addition to the team's interior.
Eagles' Pass-Catching Help
The Philadelphia Eagles are in need of pass-catching help. They select Kenyon Sadiq, a versatile tight end from Oregon, who is lethal off manufactured touches and can challenge the seam. Sadiq's blocking abilities and demeanor make him a perfect fit for the Eagles' offense.
Browns' Offensive Line Focus
The Cleveland Browns are shifting their focus to getting younger and stronger on the offensive line. They select Kadyn Proctor, an offensive lineman from Alabama, who has the potential to be a long-term home at guard. Proctor's size and strength make him a valuable addition to the team's offensive line.
Surprise Pick: Jake Golday for the Bills
The Buffalo Bills' surprise pick is Jake Golday, a linebacker from Cincinnati. Golday's physicality at the point of attack and ability to run make him a valuable addition to the team's front seven. His versatility and playmaking abilities could make him a riser throughout the draft process.
Full Mock Draft:
- Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
- New York Jets: Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
- Arizona Cardinals: Arvell Reese, LB/EDGE, Ohio State
- Tennessee Titans: Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami
- New York Giants: Francis Mauigoa, OL, Miami
- Cleveland Browns: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
- Washington Commanders: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
- New Orleans Saints: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
- Kansas City Chiefs: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
- Cincinnati Bengals: Caleb Downs, SAF, Ohio State
- Miami Dolphins: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
- Dallas Cowboys: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
- Los Angeles Rams (via Falcons): Makai Lemon, WR, USC
- Baltimore Ravens: Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M
- New York Jets (via Colts): David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
- Detroit Lions: T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson
- Minnesota Vikings: Kayden McDonald, DL, Ohio State
- Carolina Panthers: CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
- Dallas Cowboys (Via Packers): Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
- Los Angeles Chargers: Spencer Fano, OL, Utah
- Philadelphia Eagles: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
- Cleveland Browns (via Jaguars): Kadyn Proctor, OL, Alabama
- Chicago Bears: Peter Woods, DL, Clemson
- Buffalo Bills: Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati
- San Francisco 49ers: KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
- Houston Texans: Emmanuel Pregnon, OG, Oregon
- Los Angeles Rams: Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
- Denver Broncos: Caleb Banks, DL, Florida
- New England Patriots: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
- Seattle Seahawks: Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State
