The countdown to the 2026 NFL Draft has officially begun! With free agency now behind us and the top players locked in with lucrative contracts, team needs have shifted and new opportunities have emerged. As we enter the final stretch, it’s time to take a look at the latest mock draft from Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been in search of a franchise quarterback since the departure of Ben Roethlisberger. In this mock draft, they finally find their man in Ty Simpson from the University of Alabama. Simpson has been a standout performer in high school and is expected to continue his success at the collegiate level. With his strong arm and impressive accuracy, he has all the tools to lead the Steelers to success in the future.
Moving on to the Los Angeles Rams, they have their sights set on USC’s Makai Lemon. The wide receiver has been a standout performer for the Trojans and has caught the attention of many NFL scouts. With his speed, agility, and exceptional route-running abilities, Lemon is a perfect fit for the Rams’ high-powered offense. He will provide a much-needed boost to their receiving corps and help them maintain their dominance in the league.
The Cincinnati Bengals have the third overall pick in this mock draft and they use it to select defensive end, Kayvon Thibodeaux from the University of Oregon. Thibodeaux has been a force to be reckoned with in college football and is expected to make a smooth transition to the NFL. With his size, strength, and speed, he will be a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks and will help the Bengals improve their pass rush.
The New York Giants have had their fair share of struggles in recent years and they are looking to turn things around with the fourth overall pick. They select offensive tackle, Evan Neal from the University of Alabama. Neal is a massive presence on the field and has the ability to dominate in both the run and pass game. He will provide much-needed protection for quarterback Daniel Jones and help the Giants’ offense become more efficient.
The Detroit Lions have the fifth overall pick and they use it to select linebacker, Christian Harris from the University of Alabama. Harris has been a standout performer for the Crimson Tide and is known for his speed, athleticism, and tackling abilities. He will bring a much-needed spark to the Lions’ defense and help them improve their overall performance.
The sixth overall pick belongs to the New York Jets and they use it to select cornerback, Derek Stingley Jr. from Louisiana State University. Stingley Jr. is widely considered as one of the best cornerbacks in college football and has the potential to become a shutdown corner in the NFL. With his speed, agility, and exceptional coverage skills, he will be a valuable addition to the Jets’ defense.
The Carolina Panthers have the seventh overall pick and they use it to select quarterback, Sam Howell from the University of North Carolina. Howell has been a standout performer for the Tar Heels and has all the qualities of a franchise quarterback. With his strong arm, accuracy, and leadership skills, he will be a perfect fit for the Panthers’ offense and help them compete in a tough NFC South division.
The eighth overall pick belongs to the Philadelphia Eagles and they use it to select wide receiver, Garrett Wilson from Ohio State University. Wilson has been a consistent performer for the Buckeyes and has the potential to become a top receiver in the NFL. With his speed, agility, and exceptional catching abilities, he will be a valuable weapon for quarterback Jalen Hurts and help the Eagles’ offense become more dynamic.
The Denver Broncos have the ninth overall pick and they use it to select offensive tackle, Zion Nelson from the University of Miami. Nelson has been a standout performer for the Hurricanes and has the potential to become a dominant force in the NFL. With his size, strength, and athleticism, he will provide much-needed protection for quarterback Drew Lock and help the Broncos’ offense become more efficient.
The final pick in the top 10 belongs to the Atlanta Falcons and they use it to select defensive tackle, DeMarvin Leal from Texas A&M University. Leal has been a standout performer for the Aggies and is known for his strength, agility, and pass-rushing abilities. He will bring a much-needed boost to the Falcons’ defense and help them improve their overall performance.
As we approach the 2026 NFL Draft, the excitement and anticipation continue to build. With talented players like Ty Simpson