2026 NFL mock draft: Schrager projects 32 first-round picks
Peter Schrager leans on his intel after last week's annual league meeting to project picks in the NFL draft. Here's where things stand right now in Round 1.
www.espn.comThe 2026 NFL Draft, set for April 23 in Pittsburgh, is generating buzz with multiple recent mock drafts projecting first-round picks based on team needs and prospect visits. Analysts like Peter Schrager and ESPN's team are focusing on quarterback-needy teams and edge rushers early.[1][3]
Top Projected Picks
Recent mocks consistently highlight these top selections:
- Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana (seen as a lock for their franchise QB spot).[1]
- New York Jets: David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech, or Arvell Reese, Edge, Ohio State (addressing their low sack total last season).[3][1]
- Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans follow closely, with edge and defensive talent in play.[1]
Latest Developments
Peter Schrager's April 6 mock drew reactions on shows like Pat McAfee's on April 13-14, noting buzz around Ohio State prospects like Carnell Tate (WR to Dolphins) and Kayden McDonald (DT to Bills). YouTube mocks with trades, like Broshmo's two-round version on April 12-13, incorporate top-30 visits and scheme fits.[2][4][1]
Key Storylines
Teams like the Dolphins (needing WRs post-Hill/Waddle) and Vikings (safety replacement) feature prominently in three-round projections. NFL.com and CBS Sports updated mocks around April 12-13 emphasize new coaching staffs and draft order impacts.[6][7][3][1]