Browns land new QB of the future in full first round 2026 NFL mock draft

The Cleveland Browns need a new quarterback, and they find themselves in a position to take one as they come on the clock in this mock draft.

The NFL season is finally upon us. After nearly half a year without professional football, our teams return to us with the hopes of a brighter tomorrow. Some teams will return with the distance cold that sends fans searching for a brighter tomorrow. I assume that’s how most readers are finding this first mock draft of the season. If the Browns have taught me anything, it’s that it’s never too early to look toward the future.

This mock is a complete first-round mock draft. The draft order was determined by inverting the Super Bowl odds from our friends at BetMGM.com. This first mock includes seven quarterbacks going in the draft. While I don’t think that 20% of the first round will be quarterbacks, I wanted to include a host of players for fans looking for their future franchise quarterback. In future mock drafts, there will be far fewer quarterbacks.

The goal for this mock draft is to introduce as many top prospects in college football as I can. The 2026 NFL draft class has the potential to be very good. That’s why I want to spread the word.

1. New Orleans Saints, Arch Manning, QB, Texas

Arch Manning had a very disappointing 2025 debut. The quarterback made his first away start in the dreaded Ohio State stadium. The environment clearly overwhelmed Manning, who struggled to complete routine throws. However, one game shouldn’t dissuade people from believing in Manning. Football is a small sample size sport, where one game feels like it can define someone’s career, but it doesn’t. Manning is a great quarterback, and he found his footing during the fourth quarter against Ohio State. He played his best during crunch time, and I think that’s being overlooked. Manning is a top quarterback, and I think he’ll have the Longhorns back in the conversation for the National Championship. Great quarterbacks can prove their leadership by saving a season that gets off track. Manning has that opportunity this autumn.

Manning has flashed high-end skills in his limited playing time. He has the foundations to be a franchise quarterback. He isn’t a statuesque pocket passer like his uncles. Manning was asked to run the ball a lot for the Longhorns. He had over 25 carries last season, most of which were on designed runs. Manning is a dynamic option for teams desperate for a quarterback. Manning has a good arm. He can access every portion of the field with pinpoint accuracy. He doesn’t possess elite velocity to open passing windows with his arm. But that’s not necessary, as quarterbacks should anticipate the windows. Manning has several flaws due to his inexperience. He has poor pocket presence and tends to float out of the back. He’s not a consistent player. However, these are all correctable with more experience. Manning should regain the pole position in the NFL draft as the season progresses. He’s a talented player, and he’ll prove it to the world with time.

Time is something the Manning family has a lot of. Patriarch Archie Manning III has stated his grandson won’t declare for the upcoming draft. However, the quarterback told reporters that nothing is off the table. It’ll probably be best for Manning not to rush through college. The NFL is quick to chew quarterbacks up and throw them away. Rarely do quarterbacks get multiple chances; when they do, it takes years. Manning should stay in college and try to etch himself into the college football hall of fame. Texas should have one of the best rosters in college football for the duration of Manning’s career. They just need a consistent quarterback to help them win it all. If Manning can lead Texas to a National Championship, then he’ll be ready for the NFL. Until then, he should enjoy college. The league isn’t going anywhere.

The New Orleans Saints are the perfect team for Manning. The hometown kid restoring the Saints to dominance, where his grandfather started the family’s football legacy, would mean a lot to the Manning family. The Saints are in desperate need of a quarterback. The team is cycling between two inexperienced quarterbacks this season. They have a good chance to end up with the top pick in the draft. If they end up with the first pick, they should pick up a quarterback. They should do everything they can to welcome the Mannings home.

2. New York Giants, LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina, QB

LaNorris Sellers is the most electric quarterback in college football. Sellers looks like he was built in a lab, standing at 6-foot-3, 240 pounds. The University of South Carolina Gamecock was a hidden gem. Sellers was a three-star recruit before having a breakout season as a redshirt freshman. Sellers threw the ball for 2,500 yards and 18 touchdowns on fewer than 300 passing attempts. Sellers ran for an additional 670 yards, scoring seven touchdowns on the ground. The young quarterback can take over a game in the blink of an eye.

Sellers is one of the strongest players in college football. The quarterback looks like a sculpture and can shrug off linemen like a superhero. Sellers is a fantastic athlete who can score from anywhere on the field. Sellers isn’t just an athlete; he’s a legitimate quarterback threat. He has a howitzer for an arm and can prop-throw windows open with unreal velocity and pinpoint accuracy. Sellers is growing into his role as a quarterback.

The young quarterback is making a conscious effort to stand in the pocket, read through his progression, and make the right play, only relying on his athleticism to buy him more time. Sellers will need a lot of experience to grow into the pocket passer he hopes to be. It’ll take hundreds more reps for him to develop the timing necessary to operate in the pocket. It’s difficult for quarterbacks to learn how to command an offense as defenses are firing at them. However, Sellers wants to live in the pocket and play within the structure of the play. Life would be far easier for him if he played backyard football and turned every play into a scramble drill. He has the speed to outrun a defense and arm beat them over the top. Instead, he’s trying to play the right way and avoid shortcuts. It’s commendable, and it’s exactly what the better quarterback prospects attempt to accomplish.

Sellers is expected to have a big season for the University of South Carolina. The Gamecocks have a young team, full of fantastic athletes. They need the cool leadership of a quarterback to help them unlock their potential. Sellers has an excellent opportunity to take control of the team. Sellers can lead South Carolina through the toughest parts of the SEC. If he succeeds in leading the Gamecocks to the college football playoffs, then he’ll be in contention for the Heisman trophy. Sellers has a great opportunity ahead of him this season.

The New York Giants need an exciting player at quarterback. The Giants drafted Jaxson Dart in the first round of last year’s draft, but that shouldn’t stop them from drafting a top quarterback in this upcoming draft, especially when it’s a quarterback as talented as Sellers. He’s the exact type of electric quarterback meant to thrive in New York City. Sellers is the exact quarterback the Giants need to compete in the NFC East. The two would make a perfect pair.

3. Cleveland Browns, Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

Fernando Mendoza is a traditional drop-back passer in an era of run-first quarterbacks. Mendoza had prototypical size for the position at 6-foot-4, 225 pounds. Mendoza started his career as a three-star recruit from Florida. He enrolled at the University of California, Berkeley, receiving a redshirt in his first year. Mendoza was named the starter halfway through the 2023 season and helped turn around the Golden Bears’ season. Mendoza transferred to the University of Indiana after a successful one-and-a-half years in Berkeley. Mendoza is hoping to lead the Hoosiers to another college football playoff berth.

Mendoza is a deadly field general. The quarterback does a great job of commanding the offense. He has the size, strength, and quickness to stand tall in the pocket and deliver passes as receivers break open. Mendoza isn’t afraid of taking a shot; he’ll step into a hit if he needs the extra split second for his receiver to get open. He’s a smart player who knows the importance of perfect timing in an offense. Mendoza thrives as the epicenter of an offense. He knows how to distribute the ball to his playmakers. He has a great arm and can access every part of the field. He’s not afraid to rip the ball over the middle of the field. Mendoza is an excellent prospect seeking challenges. He has a good opportunity to learn from quarterback guru Curt Cignetti. Cignetti will have Mendoza mentally prepared for the NFL.

The Indiana Hoosiers need a big season from Mendoza. The team was a dark horse when they made the college football playoffs. This year, they’ll have a big target on their back. Mendoza gives Indiana the firepower needed to fight back. Mendoza should help Indiana’s offense repeat as a top ten unit in college football. The Hoosiers need a top offense to compete for the Big Ten championship. Mendoza should get the Hoosiers on the inside track to win it all.The Cleveland Browns desperately need a franchise quarterback. The Browns still need to manage the financial impacts of the Deshaun Watson contract. They need to find a way to get cheap at the position without relying on veteran quarterbacks hoping to revive their careers. The Browns need a young quarterback to build around.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski needs a quarterback he can develop into a franchise quarterback. Mendoza would be a perfect fit in Cleveland.

4. Tennessee Titans, Spencer Fano, RT

Spencer Fano is one of the best offensive tackles in college football. Fano is a Utah native who stayed in-state at the University of Utah, despite being a four-star recruit. Fano started at left tackle for the Utes in his freshman year. He was named a Freshman All-American in 2023. He has good size for the position, standing at 6-foot-5 and over 300 pounds. Fano is a great offensive tackle with a rare blend of agility and strength. The Utes have done a great job of developing him into a strong tackle.

Fano might be the most impressive lineman in college football. He has an incredible range and loves to push defenders around. His game is part matador, part heavyweight boxer. He uses his unreal quickness to keep defenders at bay. The moment he confirms he’s one-on-one, he pounces on them with stiff jabs. He’s a relentless attacker who blocks until he hears the echo of the whistle. Fano is a spectacular blocker with few weaknesses. His lack of size could cause some concerns among NFL teams. However, there are plenty of smaller tackles dominating in the NFL. Fano has a good chance to be the first offensive tackle drafted in the 2026 NFL draft.

The Utah Utes have become a formidable program out west. Kyle Whittingham has done a fantastic job of identifying and developing talent. The Utes have become one of the strongest teams in the new Big 12. They’ll spend the season competing for a top seed in the college football playoffs. They’re a team built in the trenches, and they have the talent to compete with the best of the SEC and Big 10. Fano will play an essential role in the Utes’ season.

The Tennessee Titans should sprint to turn in their draft card if Fano is available in the 2026 NFL draft. The Titans have bolstered their offensive line over the past two seasons. Rookie quarterback and the number one overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft, Cam Ward, should feel protected behind the group. However, if the team finishes with a top-five pick, then their offense must’ve stalled out during the year. The Titans would be wise to fortify their offensive line by replacing Dan Moore Jr. with Fano.

They’d leave the draft with one of the best offensive lines in football. It would provide an excellent foundation for building the rest of their offense.

5. Carolina Panthers, Peter Woods, DT, Clemson

Peter Woods is a destructive defensive tackle for the Clemson Tigers. Woods is a powerful athlete, standing at 6-foot-2, 310 pounds. Woods was the ninth-ranked recruit in the 2023 recruiting class. He’s entering his junior season after two great years with the Tigers. Woods has amassed three sacks and 12 tackles for loss to start his career.

Woods is a weapon for Clemson. He lines up across the line of scrimmage. He has a quick first step, a strong punch, and surprising agility for his size. Woods is a force in the trenches. His diverse skill set makes him impossible to block one-on-one. Woods has a lot of responsibilities for the Tigers. He’s used a lot on stunts, asked to read-and-react on run plays, and rushes a lot on the outside. Woods has been effective at those tasks. Woods will move inside full-time in the NFL. His vast array of skills will turn him into a matchup nightmare.

Woods and the Clemson Tigers are preparing for a big 2025 season. Woods hopes to lead the Tigers to the National Championship. Clemson has a fantastic team on both sides of the ball. Woods is a dominant defensive player. Woods must convert his disruptive plays into box score stats if Clemson wants to be competitive in the college football playoffs. He could elevate himself and the team by finishing with a handful more sacks and tackles for loss. The Tigers are counting on a big season from Woods.

The Carolina Panthers would be an ideal fit for Woods. They run an odd front defense and could take advantage of Woods’ versatility. He would be a natural fit next to Derrick Brown. The Panthers desperately need more talent on their defense. The Panthers could transform a good defensive line into a great one with Woods.

6. New York Jets, Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson

Cade Klubnik is one of the top quarterbacks in college football. The fourth-year senior is one of the most experienced quarterbacks in the class. Klubnik is entering his third season as Clemson’s starter. He arrived in South Carolina as a five-star recruit. Klubnik saw limited action as a freshman, but was named the starter after the season.

Klubnik has had a fallible progression, full descents, and ascents. He’s been a productive quarterback for the Tigers, but he hasn’t become the quarterback Clemson hoped he would become. Klubnik has thrown for over 7,400 yards and 57 touchdowns, completing 678 of 1,078 passes. He’s struggled to improve week to week and is still haunted by common mistakes. Last season, Klubnik began piecing together the offense and finished the season on a strong note. He’ll need a strong start to the season to ensure he’s in the conversation for the top quarterback prospect.

Klubnik is an incredibly talented quarterback with all the tools to succeed at the position. Klubnik is 6-foot-2, 210 pounds with the quickness to sneak around the pocket and the arm talent to launch passes from a variety of arm slots. Klubnik is a dual-threat quarterback; he’s swift and can send defenses into chaos mode once he exits the pocket. Klubnik is a slow processor, but he can make the right play if he gets enough time. He drifts horribly out of the pocket, inviting free rushers. He could become a dangerous distributor if he improves his mental game. If Klubnik learns how to trust his offensive line, his eyes, and the play call, then he could develop into a great quarterback. He has all the tools to be a top quarterback, but he just doesn’t know how to deploy them.

Klubnik has an important year ahead of him. The quarterback is in command of a talented Clemson team. The organization has high hopes that he’ll lead them to an ACC championship and a college football championship game. Klubnik had a rough start in their season debut against Louisiana State University. However, there’s plenty of football left to be played. There’s more time for him to get Clemson back on track as they push for an ACC championship. Time is exactly what Klubnik needs to build familiarity with the offense. I wouldn’t be surprised if Clemson is among the favorites to win a National Championship come December.

The New York Jets are desperate for a quarterback. The team’s experiment with Justin Fields looks like a failure before the season starts. The Jets must resume their search for a franchise quarterback. Klubnik would be a good solution for the Jets. Klubnik is an intelligent quarterback who needs a good infrastructure around him. The Jets have a talented offense and would be a good incubator for any young quarterback. The Jets’ offensive line would protect Klubnik well. He could develop into a superstar quarterback in New York.

7. Las Vegas Raiders, Isaiah World, OT, Oregon

Isaiah World is a monstrous offensive tackle. World is listed at 6-foot-8, 310 pounds. World is a redshirt senior who started his career at Nevada. He transferred to Oregon during the winter. He was ranked as the top transfer target on the portal. World has a great combination of size, speed, and power. He has all the tools to be a franchise left tackle in the NFL.

World is an impressive player. He’s quick on his feet and has excellent movement skills. With his size and speed, he presents a real threat to second-level defenders. World is a punisher once he gets his momentum going. In pass blocking, World utilizes his size effectively. He cuts off pass rushers and forces them to work back inside. World anchors quickly at his size. World must improve his striking skills this season. He struggles to shoot his hands inside and control defenders through the chest. He likes to torque defenders out of gaps instead of driving through them. World has the foundation to be a great offensive tackle, but he needs to clean up his technique.

World has big shoes to fill in Oregon. He’s replacing Josh Conerly Jr., who was selected in the first round by the Washington Commanders. The Ducks are looking to reload on offense for another run at a National Championship. World will be a valuable member of their offensive line. The Ducks should have a lot of success running behind him.The Las Vegas Raiders have built a smash-mouth offense over the last few years. They have dynamic playmakers inside the hash marks. However, they need to build up their trenches. Kolton Miller, their franchise left tackle, is a free agent after the season. World would be the perfect fit for the Raiders.

He could either replace Miller or learn from him. They’re both tall, lean offensive tackles with great movement size. They could form a massive wall around quarterback Geno Smith. World could be their tackle of the future on either side of the line.

8. Indianapolis Colts, Drew Allar, QB, Penn State

Drew Allar has the prototypical size to be a franchise quarterback in the NFL. Allar is a former five-star recruit from Medina, Ohio. He’s 6-foot-5, 235 pounds, and looks the part of a franchise quarterback. Allar is entering his senior year at Penn State. During his first two seasons as a starter, Allar threw over 775 passes, completing 495 of them for 5,900 yards and 29 touchdowns. Allar has been one of the top quarterbacks in the Big Ten. Last season, he helped lead Penn State to the College Football playoffs. Allar and the Nittany Lions have high expectations this year.

Allar is a challenging prospect to analyze. He has the prototypical size for the position, but lacks the intangibles of the best quarterbacks. Allar is a robotic quarterback with no natural feel for the game. Allar’s biggest problem is his inconsistent accuracy due to poor throwing form. His feet are rarely aligned, and he’s a mess when he feels pressure. Allar has had a lot of success playing within Penn State’s system, but when things go awry, Allar’s fundamentals abandon him. Allar has all the tools to be a great NFL quarterback, but he needs to breathe life into his game. He needs to find some confidence to help him get back on track when plays break down. Allar has all the physical gifts to be a dominant quarterback in the NFL. However, it’s unclear if he’ll develop a natural feel for the game.

Allar has a lot of hopes and dreams weighing on him this season. Penn State wants to win the Big Ten and college football championships. The team brought back a lot of their draft-eligible players to chase this dream. Allar will be an essential part of leading them to the promised land, if the weight of expectations doesn’t crush him.

The Indianapolis Colts are desperate to find an answer at quarterback. The Anthony Richardson Sr. experiment failed at takeoff. The team named Daniel Jones their starter for this season. They need a quarterback and should find one in the 2026 NFL draft. Allar would be a good match for the Colts. Allar has all the tools to develop into a franchise quarterback. He just needs a franchise’s steady hand to help guide him.

9. Los Angeles Rams via Atlanta Falcons, Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State

Jordyn Tyson is one of the most electric receivers in college football. He’s the star of the Arizona State Sun Devils passing attack. Tyson started his career in Colorado as a three-star recruit. He made an immediate impact as a freshman, leading the Buffaloes in receiving. Tyson left the Buffaloes after new head coach Deion Sanders strongly encouraged the entire team to transfer out of the program. Tyson’s father ripped into Sanders over the move. The Tyson family is an athletic group. His older brother is Jaylon Tyson of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The move was Buffalo’s loss and the Sun Devils’ gain. Last season, Tyson racked up over 1,100 yards and 10 touchdowns on 71 receptions.

Tyson is a dynamic receiving threat. He has the adequate size for the position at 6 feet, 200 pounds. Tyson is a great athlete. He’s quick and decisive. He plays wide receiver like a slashing guard in basketball. Tyson cuts violently at the release and top of the route, rapidly creating separation from cornerbacks. He high points the ball like he’s going up for a rebound. Tyson is quicker than he is fast and can get run down in the open field. He needs to refine his technique when catching the football. He does a good job of catching passes outside his frame, but lets the ball get into his body too often.

Tyson is creative after the catch, but may lack the speed to be a consistent run-after-catch threat in the NFL.Tyson missed the postseason after undergoing collarbone surgery. He struggled with injuries throughout his career. He missed the 2023 season with a knee injury. Tyson is expected to have a big season for the Sun Devils. The team is gearing up for another Big 12 championship and a playoff run. Tyson will be a significant part of their offense. He also gets a chance at revenge against Colorado to end the season. This season, Tyson should be in the running for the Biletnikoff Award.

The Los Angeles Rams would be an excellent home for Tyson. The Rams are dialing up their offense before Matthew Stafford leaves. Tyson can line up across the formation. His versatility would help the Rams further disguise their offense. He could be an electric playmaker for the team. The Rams could use the Falcons’ first-round pick on a luxury piece to supercharge their offense.

10. Cleveland Browns via Jacksonville Jaguars, Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami

Rueben Bain Jr. is one of the most powerful pass rushers in college football. Bain is a 6-foot-3, 275-pound monster at defensive end. He broke out as a freshman for the Miami Hurricanes. Bane was named ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year. Bain is entering his Junior season after suffering from a sophomore slump. Bain has 11 sacks, nine tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles in his career. Bain is a strong defender who can play through a blocker’s chest. He should have a big year for the Hurricanes as a Junior.

Bain is a stout and powerful defensive end. He’s exceptionally good at deconstructing blocks. He’s a talented hand-fighter with an innate understanding of leverage. He’s naturally a great run defender who can control multiple gaps at the point of attack. Bain is excellent at disengaging from blocks. He has a handful of moves to help him slip and destroy blocks. Bain is a solid pass rusher. He has a quick first step, and his strength gives him inside-outside versatility. Bain is a forceful rusher who plays with extreme tenacity.

He can be out of control when he’s pass rushing. He’ll abandon containment responsibilities if he thinks he can reach the quarterback. He can run quarterbacks off their spot, but struggles to finish sacks. Bain is a young player, and he’ll become a more skilled pass rusher with additional experience. Bain is a powerful defensive end with strong hands to defeat blockers. Strength and great hands are two of the most critical attributes a defensive lineman can have. Bain has the foundation to develop into a scary pass rusher in the NFL.

Bain is looking to bounce back from a sophomore slump. The defensive end wants to help the Hurricanes make a push for the college football playoffs. The Hurricanes have a talented roster that should enable them to compete in the ACC. Last season, the Hurricanes’ defense let down the offense more often than not. They struggled to stop opposing offenses all season. They had an average defense by most metrics, including EPA and success rate. A more disciplined Bain should help them elevate their defense.

The Browns found their franchise quarterback earlier in the draft. They could use their extra first-round pick to select the best player available. That’s who Bain is. He’s the best defensive end in the draft. The Browns have aggressively built a defensive line around Myles Garrett. The team drafted Mason Graham with their first-round pick. They’ll once again spend the Jaguars’ first-round pick to reinforce the trenches. Bain could help the Browns’ defense reclaim their former top spot.

11. New England Patriots, Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

Caleb Downs has been one of the best defenders in college football since his freshman season at Alabama. Downs was the eighth overall prospect in the 2023 recruiting class. Downs made second-team All-American as a freshman at Alabama. Downs was set to be the next excellent Alabama safety, and then Nick Saban retired. Downs entered the transfer portal as the number one prospect. Downs committed to Ohio State and instantly became the leader of the defense. Downs was a unanimous All-American and led the Ohio State defense to a National Championship. He’s looking to help Ohio State repeat under new defensive coordinator Matt Patricia.

Downs is the best safety in college football. He’s a talented athlete with exceptional intelligence and fierce determination. Downs can fit the run from the post spot and match up against receivers in the slot. He’s a defensive weapon. He excels in zone coverage and is effective in man coverage. Downs is great in run defense. Downs’ superpower is his awareness. Downs is aware of the weaknesses in the defense and how offenses will exploit them. He wins with anticipation and toughness. He solves problems before they have an opportunity to be exploited.

Downs has a lot of high expectations heading into the season. He’ll command an Ohio State defense in flux. The team is replacing many of its defensive starters and their coordinator. Downs will be asked to keep the team organized on the field. Downs will take on more responsibilities on the field. He could play more man coverage next season. He’s a weapon, and it’ll be interesting to see how Ohio State uses him.

The New England Patriots need a tone-setter on defense. Downs is the perfect answer for a team wanting to establish a good culture built on toughness, smarts, and accountability. Downs is a natural-born leader who energizes whatever room he’s in. The Patriots need players like Downs to instill their culture of hard work and winning. Downs would be a natural fit next to star cornerback Christian Gonzalez. The duo would make up a good no-fly zone in New England.

12. Seattle Seahawks, Keldric Faulk, DT, Auburn

Keldric Faulk is a mammoth defensive end for the Auburn Tigers. Faulk is listed at 6-foot-6, 280 pounds. Faulk is a big and violent player. He aligns inside and outside in the Tigers’ odd front system. Faulk is a true junior who has started for the past two seasons. Last year, he broke out with seven sacks and 11 tackles-for-loss. This season, Faulk hopes to be one of the best defensive ends in the SEC.

Faulk is a powerful defender. He uses his huge frame to decimate the offensive line in the run game. Faulk’s first punch sends blockers flying backwards. He does a great job of locking his arms out on first contact, finding the ball, and tossing the blocker to the side. Faulk is a developing pass rusher with rudimentary hand-fighting technique. He’s a ferocious pass rusher, mainly using effort and strength to defeat blocks. He’ll refine his pass rush as he gains more experience. Faulk’s a standout athlete with sky-high potential. He has all the tools to be a dominant player in the trenches.

Faulk is looking to build upon a successful sophomore season. The Auburn Tigers were aggressive in the transfer portal. They’ve brought in a ton of talent to help them compete in the SEC. Faulk will lead their defense. They’ll need him to have a monster season if they want to make a playoff run. Faulk is a great run defender, but he’ll need to improve his pass rush skills to help the Tigers over the hump.

The Seattle Seahawks are a tough team built through the trenches. Faulk could be a significant weapon for the Seahawks. Head coach Mike Macdonald’s defenses have had success being versatile up front. Faulk is a tweener without a true home, either inside or outside. Being a jack of all trades can be the kiss of death for an NFL career. Generally, players must master a position before switching to another one. However, tweeners can be unleashed with the right coach. Macdonald is a schematic genius who would turn Faulk into a weapon. He is the perfect fit for the Seahawks.

13. Miami Dolphins, Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

Jermod McCoy is one of the best cornerbacks in college football. McCoy is a lockdown cornerback for the Tennessee Volunteers. He started his career at Oregon State before transferring to Tennessee. He is a compact cornerback with excellent ball-hawking skills. McCoy has recorded six interceptions and 14 pass breakups in his career. McCoy suffered an ACL while training in January. He should be ready to go by the middle of the season.

McCoy is a physically gifted cornerback. He is listed at 6-foot, 190-pounds. He has a great blend of quickness, strength, and speed. He plays an aggressive style of football. McCoy is a bully in press coverage. He has a powerful first strike to disrupt the receiver’s release. He has quick feet to turn and stay with receivers, and he recovers ground with ease. McCoy turns into a receiver at the catch point, making sure to turn his head and get his hands up. He excels in both man and zone coverage. McCoy has all the tools to be a lockdown cornerback. He’s a gifted athlete with a tenacious mentality.

The Tennessee Volunteers had a rough offseason. They lost McCoy to an ACL tear that could keep him out for the majority of the season. They also lost star quarterback Nico Iamaleava to the transfer portal. While the Volunteers were preparing for an SEC championship at the start of the year, they’ll now be battling uphill for the spot. Hopefully, they’ll be competitive enough for McCoy to come back. They’ll need McCoy to shut down some of the most prolific passing attacks in the SEC. The Volunteers have a good defense, but they need McCoy to compete in the SEC.

The Miami Dolphins are in desperate need of cornerbacks. The team is bereft at the position after trading star cornerback Jalen Ramsey. This season, they’ll need to dedicate a lot of resources to their coverage. McCoy would be the perfect option for the Dolphins. McCoy has the eyes to poach passing windows in zone, and the fluidity to stick with receivers in man. McCoy would be a great addition in Miami. He would help them revitalize their defensive backfield. McCoy is one of the best defensive players in the draft. Hopefully, he’ll prove it this year.

14. Dallas Cowboys, Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas

Anthony Hill Jr. is one of the most violent defensive players in college football. Hill is a linebacker for the University of Texas. He was a five-star prospect and 17th overall in the 2023 recruiting class. Hill is listed at 6-foot-3, 235 pounds. Hill commands the middle of the defense for the Longhorns. Last year, he wore the green dot as a true sophomore. He recorded over 110 combined tackles, 16.5 tackles-for-loss, eight sacks, four forced fumbles, and one interception. He was named First-Team All-American for his efforts.

Hill is a good athlete with a distinct blend of quickness, strength, and agility. He is a downhill thumper with great agility. He’s a weapon on blitzes with the strength to burst through gaps and the bend to chase quarterbacks down. I would not be surprised if NFL teams consider him an edge prospect. Hill is a see-ball, get-ball type of defender. Hill needs to develop the mental parts of his game. He’s a raw coverage player. He loses receivers behind him. He’s frantic when roboting and will run himself out of throwing windows. Hill needs to continue developing his coverage awareness. He plays with a high level of intensity, but lacks control and technique. He struggles to finish tackles. Hill must find the balance between relentlessness and patience. The best players in every sport understand the importance of pacing.

Hill and the Longhorns are preparing for another deep playoff run. They start the season with a rematch of the semi-finals at the Cotton Bowl against the reigning national champion Buckeyes. Texas wants revenge as they have a relatively easy path to the SEC championship. Hill should have another dominant season as a defensive weapon. He’s expected to wear the green dot for the Longhorns again. Hill has a chance to shine this season. He’ll be an important weapon for Texas’s defense. Next season, Hill could be the most important defensive player in college football. Hill is a chess piece for the Longhorns.

Hill is one of the most exciting players in college football. Jerry Jones and the Cowboys want to keep talent like that in-state. The Cowboys have a significant need at pass rusher after trading superstar Micah Parsons. They’re in a position to address a major need while boosting fan engagement. The Cowboys need a lot of help in front of their defense. Hill could give them a weapon to rush off the edge or stack behind the line. The Longhorn linebacker would be a great fit for the Cowboys.

15. Arizona Cardinals, CJ Allen, LB, Georgia

CJ Allen is the defensive field general for the Georgia Bulldogs. Allen is a commanding force in the middle of the field. He is a dense defender, listed at 6-foot-1, 235 pounds. He loves to bully players between the hash marks. Allen is a brilliant player. It’s hard to believe he’s entering his junior season. He knows where the offense wants to go with the football. Last season, Allen made 49 solo tackles. He was flying all over the field for the Bulldogs.

Allen is an elite defender with a robust skillset. He’s physically imposing and makes his presence known on defense. Allen is a great athlete. He has the strength to overpower blockers, the acceleration to trigger downfield, and the speed to cover players on passing downs. He’s a dynamic linebacker. Allen is a stout run defender. He sifts through the box, slipping by blockers to find the ball carrier. When a blocker does get a hand on him, Allen uses his strength and hand usage to deconstruct blocks. Allen has great range in coverage.

He breaks on routes quickly and has the speed to recover. He could improve at rerouting players running through his zone. Allen has all the tools to be a special box defender. Most importantly, he knows when he needs to deploy a tool. Allen will be a special linebacker in the NFL.

Georgia is gearing up for a big year in the SEC. The Bulldogs are looking to defend their SEC title and push for a National Championship. Allen will play a crucial role in revitalizing their defense. Georgia’s defense needs to get back into elite form to compete in the SEC. Allen is a brainiac on the backend. He’ll help align the defense, keeping them in advantageous positions. Georgia has one of the most demanding schedules in the SEC. They’re going to need the defense to shut down some of the most prolific offenses to repeat as champions.

The Arizona Cardinals have made a lot of steps toward fixing their defensive front. The Cardinals are in desperate need of a linebacker to marry their front to their backfield. Allen would match the Cardinals perfectly. He’s a great field general with killer instincts. His awareness is outstanding for his age. He’s a good communicator. Allen is exactly what the Cardinals need. Allen is one of the best defensive players in college football.

16. Pittsburgh Steelers, Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU

Garrett Nussmeier is the perfect quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Nussmeier is a field general and a leader on offense. Nussmeier is the son of Doug Nussmeier, the offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints. He has all the intangibles needed for the position. He’s a cerebral player who can command an offense.

Nussmeier isn’t overly reliant on run-pass-options, play actions, quick screens, gimmick formations. Nussmeier operates a real passing attack, with standard 3 and 5-step concepts. It’s a refreshing sight to see on Saturdays. Nussmeier has physical limitations. He’s 6-foot-1, under 200 pounds, and has an above-average arm. However, he has the best brain in the class. He throws with great anticipation and can fit the ball in tight windows right as they open.

Nussmeier will be a controversial quarterback talent. He’s the antithesis of the contemporary scouting dogma, which emphasizes big tools over the correct process. Nussmeier will never be an impressive player in the weight room, but on the field, he can get the job done with ease. Nussmeier is the only top quarterback we know must declare for the NFL draft.

The Pittsburgh Steelers desperately need a quarterback. The organization has tried using some of the greatest veteran quarterbacks in the NFL. They’ve sacrificed some of their principles in the process to appease their quarterbacks. The Steelers need a young quarterback to reset their offense and return to their foundation. Nussmeier would be a perfect fit in Pittsburgh. The Steelers are a patient and physical offense. Nussmeier would be a great field general as they return to their roots.

17. Denver Broncos, Antonio Williams, WR, Clemson

Antonio Williams is one of the most electric receivers in college football. Williams is the primary receiver for the Clemson Tigers. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound dynamo is a playmaker with the ball in his hands. Williams is entering his redshirt junior season. Throughout his career, he’s caught over 153 passes for 1,732 yards and 17 touchdowns. Williams is in for a big season with the help of star quarterback Cade Klubnik. He will be in the running for the top receiver prospect in the draft.

Williams is a fantastic athlete. He’s a speedster with the strength to run through tackles. He is a threat to score with the ball from anywhere on the field. Williams possesses great acceleration and agility. He’s a quick route runner who cuts his routes with an edge. Williams has the speed to outrun cornerbacks and safeties. He tracks the ball well and has strong hands to wrangle passes outside his frame.

Williams is a talented player with a remarkable physical skill set. He must get stronger to compete in the middle and under portions of the field. Williams could also learn to play with better control. Williams could pace himself to set up his routes better. It’s always hard for kinetic route runners who move the earth with quick steps and dramatic cuts to play with deceptive pace. Williams is a player who goes a mile a minute. It’s one of the things that makes him an exceptional talent at receiver.

Clemson will need a big season from Williams. The Tigers want to repeat as ACC champions and make another push for the playoffs. Williams will be a significant part of the Tigers’ passing attack. The Tigers have a strong shot at running the ACC. They have a tough schedule, but they should have no problem running the table if they play as expected. The Tigers have an incredible roster, and they’re full of potential first-round picks. They should make a real push for the championship title.

The Denver Broncos have a major need at wide receiver. Quarterback Bo Nix had a good rookie season. He needs more help from his receivers to elevate his game. Nix needs a playmaker who can win across the field. Williams is the receiver the Broncos need. He has inside-outside versatility.

He’ll help unlock their passing game by providing them easy solutions against man coverage. Williams is one of the top receivers in college football. The Broncos need that electricity to boost their passing attack.

18. Chicago Bears, Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama

Kadyn Proctor is one of the most dominant linemen in college football. Proctor has been Alabama’s starting left tackle since his freshman season. He was the number one tackle and the fifth overall prospect in the 2023 recruiting class. He has the prototypical size for the position. Proctor is listed as 6-foot-7 and 360 pounds.

Proctor has excellent movement skills for his size. He’s quick, strong, and big. He has a ferocious first punch that knocks back linemen. When his momentum gets rolling, he flattens defenders. Proctor is a fantastic run defender. He tends to struggle more in the passing game due to his rawness. Proctor is impatient in pass protection. He wants to get his big hands on the defender and control them through their chest. He can rush through his steps and throw inaccurate strikes. Proctor doesn’t have quick feet and can struggle to move laterally. He can give up the outside track too easily. Proctor must become more patient in pass protection. He needs to hit his landmarks and force defenders to go through his chest to get the quarterback. Proctor is an incredibly talented offensive tackle, but consistency is the most crucial skill for an offensive lineman.

Proctor is entering his junior season as the blind side protector for the Crimson Tide. Proctor is hoping the Tide finish the season strong and make a run for the National Championship. Proctor will be a big piece for their offense. He sets the tone in the run game and is the protector in their passing game. Proctor is a true junior with a big season ahead.Proctor would fit right in with the Chicago Bears. The Bears spent this offseason recreating their interior offensive line to protect franchise quarterback Caleb Williams.

Williams may need more protection on the edges. Head coach Ben Johnson knows precisely how to utilize a talented tackle like Proctor. He is a scheme-agnostic lineman who can contribute in gap and zone schemes. He’d be a formidable weapon for Johnson and the Bears. Proctor would give the Bears an edge in the trenches. He’d learn a lot in their position room. Proctor and the Bears would be a perfect match for each other.

19. Houston Texans, Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah

Caleb Lomu is one of the best offensive tackles in college football. Lomu is entering his third season with the Utah Utes. He committed to the Utes as a four-star recruit from Arizona. He has good size for the position at 6-foot-6, and 305 pounds. Last season, Lomu started every game for the Utes as the left tackle. He was a star as a redshirt freshman. He did an outstanding job of protecting the edge of the pocket.

Lomu is a gifted athlete. He has a quick first step to attack defenders at the snap. Lomu has great short-range quickness. He looks like he’s shot out of a cannon when he climbs to the second level. He has a solid punch at the point of attack. Lomu is a monster when run blocking. He creates running lanes with his speed and power. He shows off his blocking skills on outside zone plays, where he looks like a veteran lineman. Lomu’s footwork has turned him into a reliable pass protector. He is a skilled striker with good grip strength. He makes it difficult for defenders to disengage from his blocks. Lomu has all the skills to be great at pass blocking. Lomu is a fantastic offensive tackle prospect. He has the tools and consistency to be in the discussion for the best in the class. He needs a strong year to prove it.

The Utah Utes are prepared to battle for the Big 12 championship. The team has a challenging path. They’ll be going through the teeth of the Big 12 when they face Texas Tech, West Virginia, Arizona State, BYU, Colorado, Baylor, and many more. If a team wants to win the Big 12, they’ll have to go through Utah. Lomu is a redshirt sophomore, but he’ll finish this season as one of the most battle-tested offensive tackles in football. He’ll need a strong season to provide a runway for Utah’s offense to take off.

The Houston Texans need to shore up their offensive line to protect quarterback C.J. Stroud. The Texans did a good job of improving their offensive line with veterans. However, they need to invest more resources into their trenches. Lomu would be a great addition in Houston. He has the versatility to start across the line of scrimmage. He can plug any hole that develops in the Texans’ line. Lomu will be a strong option for any NFL team looking to bolster their trenches.

20. Minnesota Vikings, A.J. Harris, CB, Penn State

A.J. Harris is a lockdown cornerback for the Penn State Nittany Lions. Harris was a five-star recruit and started his career at Georgia before transferring to Penn State a year later. Harris was an immediate starter for the Nittany Lions. He was named to the third-team Big 10. Harris fit Penn State like a glove. The cornerback is a bully who plays bigger than his listed size, 6-foot-1 and 191 pounds.

Harris is a physically gifted cornerback. He’s strong with a good first punch. He loves to play press coverage. Harris escorts receivers to the sideline with ease. He’s a tenacious defender; he’s always in fight mode. Harris loves to crash down hill to deliver crushing blows to ball carriers. Harris is an aggressive defender, but needs to play with more control. Harris is constantly hunting for the big play, and he can suffer from impatience. He’ll occasionally guess wrong and give up a big play. Harris must do a better job of shadowing receivers through their entire route. Harris has good eyes in zone coverage, but in man coverage, he’s slow to turn his head. He needs to improve his ability to compete at the catch point. Harris is an excellent prospect with all the tools and tenacity to succeed in the NFL. He’s a scheme-agnostic player who needs more experience.

Penn State will rely heavily on its young cornerback. The Nittany Lions had one of the best defenses in college football. They’re looking to repeat their success after losing star pass rusher Abdul Carter to the NFL draft and the New York Giants. Penn State must depend on its coverage unit to help its pass rush. The team is full of experienced players, and they’re looking to make another playoff run. Losing in the semi-finals seemed to have ignited a flame in Penn State. They retained a lot of underclassmen over the offseason.

They need all the help they can get. This year, Penn State will face three of the former playoff teams, Ohio State, Indiana, and Oregon. They have a very tough schedule ahead of them. Harris will be a significant piece in shutting down some of the best passing attacks in college football.

The Minnesota Vikings have one of the best defenses in the NFL. However, they’re thin at cornerback. The Vikings rely on a variety of coverage looks to shut down defenses. Their defense could be scary with a future star like Harris. He plays with the physicality that defensive coordinator Brian Flores requires in his defense. He could develop into a weapon under Flores. The Vikings need to devote more resources to their coverage. Harris would help fix their cornerback room.

21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson

Avieon Terrell is one of the fastest players in college football. The younger brother of A.J. Terrell Jr. looks like a seasoned veteran for the Clemson Tigers. Terrell is a fantastic athlete with great physicality. He plays much bigger than his 5-foot-11, 180-pound listed size. Terrell was a three-star prospect in the 2023 recruiting class. He’s blossomed into one of the better technicians in college football. Last season, Terrell was named second-team All-ACC. He has all the tools necessary to succeed in the NFL. If he declares, he’ll be in the race for the first cornerback selected in next year’s draft.

Terrell is a rare prospect with top-notch athleticism and technique. Terrell has the quickness to stick with receivers through all phases of the route. He has the rapid-fire feet to mirror receivers in press coverage. Terrell does a great job of playing through the catchpoint. He broke up over 12 passes last season. Terrell is a rabid hitter who loves to fly downfield like a missile into unsuspecting receivers.

He lacks the strength to dominate with the physicality he plays with. He can get bullied by stronger receivers throughout the route. He is a young player with considerable potential. Terrell’s fatal flaw is overthinking. He’s a gifted athlete with great technique, but he struggles to identify routes consistently. He has lapses in coverage as he guesses routes, seeking a big play. His technique can falter throughout a game. Typically, this issue is caused by inexperience and resolves with age. Terrell has only played two seasons, and I’m not concerned about it yet. As a true junior, he has a lot more time to gain the proper awareness. Terrell is a terrific prospect, but his lack of size and awareness could knock him down dartboards.

Terrell and the Clemson Tigers have a big year ahead of them. They’re in position to be one of the best pass defenses in college football. Terrell will be a big part of the equation. He’ll face a lot of great passing attacks in the ACC. He can prove to the nation that he’s a lockdown cornerback. The Tigers’ defense will be getting after quarterbacks, and it’s Terrell and the secondary’s responsibility to give them enough time to get the sack. Time to pressure is one of the reasons why sacks are a team stat. Terrell could be the key to making their defense the best in college football. The Tigers will be competing for a national championship and need Terrell to have a big year.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ pass defense has struggled over the last few seasons. The Buccaneers have rebuilt their former top defense since Tom Brady retired. They’ve prioritized the trenches, and their front seven has turned their defense around. The Buccaneers drafted multiple cornerbacks this year, but they still need more help. They’re a strong team with few holes. They should continue investing in their pass defense like they do their passing attack. Terrell would be a great fit for the Buccaneers.

He plays with a variety of techniques and can succeed in Bowles’ defense. Terrell would be a welcome addition to the NFC South, where his brother has played for years. This time, the Buccaneers can get some revenge with their own Terrell.

22. Los Angeles Chargers, T.J. Parker, DE, Clemson

T.J. Parker is one of the most dominant defensive ends in college football. Parker is a true junior at Clemson. Parker is a fantastic athlete with an outstanding blend of strength and speed. He plays with natural leverage at 6-foot-3, 250 pounds. Last season, he racked up 11 sacks, 20 tackles for loss, and six forced fumbles. Parker was named second-team All-ACC for his efforts. He helped lead a dominant Clemson defense through the college football postseason. He is a warrior in the trenches. Parker has all the physical tools to be a dominant defensive end in the NFL.

Parker’s special skill is his strength. He loves to overpower blockers with the help of a dangerous first step. Parker uses a strong chop to break free of a blocker’s grip. He is a skilled hand-to-hand fighter for his age. Parker does a good job of flattening at the apex of his rush, even if it’s with more brute force than bend. Parker is great in the run game. He uses his strength to lock down gaps and sheds blocks easily. Parker is an adept player with tremendous upside. He has all the tools to be a dangerous pass rusher in the NFL.

The Clemson Tigers are looking to compete for a National Championship. Parker and teammate Peter Woods make up the most ferocious duo in college football. The Tigers are relying on the pair to lead their defense to another ACC Championship. Clemson has a tough schedule, not only facing some of the best teams in the ACC, but also the SEC. They’ll need Parker and Woods to harass opposing offenses. The two are impossible to block every down. The moment a ball carrier escapes from one, the other one is there to clean up. The two defenders should lead Clemson’s defense to a National Championship.

The Los Angeles Chargers had one of the best defenses under defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. They were a bright unit that played with aggression. Parker would be a great addition to their defense. The Chargers need more help rushing the passer. Former superstar pass rusher Khalil Mack is nearing the end of his career and is playing under his second one-year contract for the team. The Chargers must find a replacement for him. Parker’s power profile would be a good addition for a hard-hitting Chargers defense.

23. Dallas Cowboys via the Green Bay Packers, Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State

Keith Abney II was one of the most exciting players to watch during Arizona State’s Cinderella run into the college football postseason. Abney is 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds. He was a three-star athlete from Texas who committed to Arizona State. Abney is entering his junior year and looking to continue his dominant finish. Last year was Abney’s first year starting. Abney is a pesky cornerback with the athleticism to stick with receivers. He intercepted three passes and made nine deflections last year. Abney is looking to have a bigger year for Arizona State.

Abney is a great athlete with dogged aggressiveness. He is a sticky cornerback who stays on receivers like a shadow. He’s a highly fluid athlete with good, but not great, speed. Abney is fantastic at gluing himself to a receiver’s hip. He loves to hit receivers and fight with them throughout a route. When he makes contact, he’s hard to evade. Abney tethers himself to receivers, allowing him to dictate the pacing and path of a route. The moment he feels a hand seek to break free for a thrown ball, he’s spinning and trying to find it. He is an adept zone player with great awareness of route concepts. He can stick with receivers from off coverage. Abney is an aggressive player, and his inexperience leads him to be a usual victim of double moves. He needs more experience to pace himself against setups better. Abney’s smaller frame may concern NFL teams, causing him to slide. However, he is an incredibly talented coverage player, and Abney will be in talks for the top cornerback in the class.

Arizona State is looking to repeat as conference champion in one of the deepest Power Four conferences. Last year, they were overlooked, but this year they’re walking into a tough schedule with a big target on their back. The Sun Devils brought back a lot of their starters on defense. They’re hoping for an extra year together, and a few transfers can take their defense from good to elite. Abney will be a significant part of their success in the passing game. Arizona State needs to create more sacks, and lockdown coverage can force quarterbacks to hold onto the ball. Abney has a lot to prove this season.

The Dallas Cowboys must invest their first-round picks into their defense. They must dedicate more premier resources to the group to replace Micah Parsons. The Cowboys extended DaRon Bland to bolster their defensive backfield. But teams can never have enough good cornerbacks. Abney would be a perfect fit for the Cowboys. He has the coverage skills to lock down some of the most explosive receivers in the NFC East. The passing attacks in the conference are an arms race, and it’s time for the Cowboys to focus on shutting them down.

24. Cincinnati Bengals, Caleb Banks, DT, Florida

Caleb Banks is a massive nose tackle out of the University of Florida. Banks is listed at 6-foot-6, 330 pounds. He is an immovable boulder in the middle of the Gators’ defense. Banks was a three-star recruit for the Louisville Cardinals. He redshirted his freshman season and played for them one more season before transferring to Florida. Banks has blossomed for the Gators. He is a disruptive force in the middle, especially on passing downs. He’s recorded five sacks and 40 tackles during his two seasons. Last season, he had 29 pressures. Banks is a fantastic athlete and is developing into one of the best pass rushers in college football.

Banks is an athletic behemoth. It’s rare to see players of his size possess the acceleration and agility of a player 40 pounds lighter. Banks’ combination of size, strength, and quickness makes him a rare prospect, even among defensive linemen. Banks is a physical freak. He has an impressive motor that most players his size don’t have. He shows off impressive balance in pursuit as he weaves through the backfield. Banks uses his size well, whether it’s long-arming a blocker or throwing his arm over them. He does a good job of slipping blocks. Banks is a fascinating player and will be one of the top defensive linemen in next year’s draft.

The Florida Gators are preparing for a run for the SEC title. The Gators have one of the most exciting quarterbacks in college football. They need their defense to support their high-flying offense. The Gators had a young and inexperienced defense. They had an average performance throughout the year, but they ended the season on a strong note. An extra year together builds cohesion across the defense. The Gators have a talented front four, headlined by Banks and defensive end Tyreak Sapp. The two wreaked havoc on opposing quarterbacks, and this year they’re back with vengeance. They have the talent to be the best pass-rushing duo in the SEC. They want to prove it to the rest of the world.

The Cincinnati Bengals have dedicated a lot of resources to building up their defense. They’ve done a good job of addressing their front seven. However, they still need help bolstering their trench. Their run defense hasn’t been the same since D.J. Reader left. They need an oversized tackle to eat blocks against the run. Banks would be a perfect fit for the Bengals. He and Kris Jenkins Jr. could form a dynamic defensive tackle duo. If Hendrickson returns and Shemar Stewart performs well, the Bengals could have one of the best defensive lines in the NFL.

25. Los Angeles Rams, Nico Iamaleava, QB, UCLA

Nico Iamaleava is one of the most controversial figures in college football. Iamaleava is a prototypical quarterback, standing at 6-foot-6, 220 pounds, with a powerful arm and fast legs. Iamaleava was a five-star prospect in the 2023 class and committed to the University of Tennessee. He led the Volunteers to the college football playoffs in his only year as a starter. He threw the ball over 330 times, completing 213 for 2,600 yards, scoring 19 touchdowns. Iamaleava spent the offseason trying to get a raise from Tennessee. The plot blew up in his face as the Volunteers stopped negotiating with him, and Iamaleava slouched into the transfer portal. He decided to return home to attend UCLA, but his reported $1.5 million salary was a far cry from the $4 million he sought out. The move is the worst transfer in the new NIL era and will serve as a cautionary tale for thousands of athletes.

Iamaleava is far more than a parable for homesick athletes. He’s also one of the most electric quarterbacks in college football. Iamaleava was built in a lab to play quarterback. He has prototypical size and fantastic athleticism. He can use his arm or his leg to score from everywhere. Iamaleava’s biggest weakness is his failure to control his deadly tools. Iamaleava is a poor thrower who turns every pass into a fastball regardless of the distance. It’s a compounding issue. His short throws are hard for receivers to catch, and his longer throws come out flat and lack the arc for receivers to track the ball. He tends to misfire passes as he flings them through the air. Iamaleava is an incredibly talented player, but he’s a very raw quarterback. The natural talent is impossible to ignore, but Iamaleava must learn to play in structure.

Iamaleava is a young prospect with a lot to learn. He probably made the right move transferring from Tennessee to UCLA. The Volunteers’ offense has not been conducive to players hoping to make it to the NFL. It’s too simplistic for players to develop into smart NFL players. UCLA’s new offense, built similarly to the Indiana Hoosiers, should better prepare Iamaleava for the NFL. The Bruins have a tough slate in the Big Ten. Iamaleava and the Bruins will be seeing some of the best teams in the conference. Iamaleava must keep the Bruins competing till the final whistle. He’ll have plenty of opportunities to rebuild his draft stock and compete for the top quarterback in the class. Iamaleava’s talent is undeniable; it’s everything else that is a question.

Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams would be the perfect fit for Iamaleava. Franchise quarterback Matthew Stafford is nearing the end of his career. His back has been in severe pain all summer. The Rams have a great organization that can build the proper guardrails around an inexperienced quarterback. McVay would be an ideal mentor for the young quarterback. He knows how to get the most out of his players.

The Rams could build their next franchise quarterback by reining in an ultra-talented quarterback. Iamaleava would flourish under the Rams’ guidance.

26. San Francisco 49ers, Xavier Scott, CB, Illinois

Xavier Scott is one of the best ballhawks in college football. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound Illinois product has all the tools to be a starter in the NFL. He has a great blend of size, speed, and strength. Scott is a physically punishing defender. Scott is a senior and a leader of the Illinois defense. He flies across the field for the Fighting Illini. Scott has a knack for finding the ball. He’s recorded six interceptions and 18 pass breaks in his career. He’s made over 90 tackles and forced three fumbles. Last year, Scott was named first-team All-Big Ten.

Scott is a great athlete. He is strong and punishes receivers throughout the route. His one-armed stab can reroute smaller receivers. Scott has excellent agility and long speed. He quickly recovers against receivers if they get open. Scott is currently more of an athlete than a cornerback. He rarely plays with proper technique, and he’ll fall behind receivers frequently. His feet stick together at the top of routes. He struggles to identify routes.

What Scott lacks in polish, he makes up for in tenacity. He’s a nasty player looking to punish receivers. His special trait is getting his eyes on the ball and intercepting it. Scott is a football player who needs to refine his technique to succeed at the next level.

Scott is returning to Illinois along with a number of their top defensive players. Illinois is preparing for a run for the Big Ten title. Their defense and offense will need to take significant steps forward, but they’re within striking distance of a playoff run. Their defense has played above average in both the pass and against the run. Hopefully, another year and some key transfers can help the defense improve. Scott will be a significant factor in their success. He needs another big year finding the ball and improving his down-to-down consistency. Scott and Illinois are facing some of the best passing attacks in the Big Ten. If he has big games against Ohio State, USC, and Indiana, he could propel himself into the conversation for the first cornerback chosen in the 2026 NFL draft.

The San Francisco 49ers spent the past offseason overhauling their defense. They used their first five picks on defensive players. Four of those picks went to address their front seven. They still need to bolster their defensive backfield. Scott would be a great addition to the 49ers. He has inside-outside versatility and could line up across the field for the 49ers. Scott’s tenacity would fit right into the 49ers’ playstyle.

The 49ers have an aggressive and smart defense. Scott could learn a lot from them. He has all the tools to become a ballhawking cornerback, but he needs the proper coaching to reach his potential. The 49ers would be an excellent fit for him.

27. Washington Commanders, Matayo Uiagalelei, DE, Oregon

Matayo Uiagalelei is one of the most powerful pass rushers in college football. Uiagalelei was a five-star recruit in the 2023 class. He’s listed at 6-foot-5, 270 pounds. Uiagalelei is entering his third season with the Ducks after a breakout sophomore year. He made 10.5 sacks, forced two fumbles, intercepted a pass, and made 24 solo tackles. Uiagalelei was wreaking havoc for Oregon and was named first-team All-Big Ten. He is the younger brother of former college quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei, and he knows exactly how to terrify a quarterback. Uiagalelei is a forceful defensive end and projects well to the next level.

Uiagalelei has all the tools to be a disruptive defensive end in the NFL. He’s incredibly strong with good acceleration and deceptive speed. Uiagalelei can shoot through gaps with ease or use his strength to control multiple gaps. He’s a natural run defender who uses his length and suddenness to stack and shed blocks with ease. Uiagalelei’s special skill is disengaging from blocks. He does a good job of knocking a blocker’s hands away so he can rush the quarterback unimpeded. Uiagalelei has adequate bend, but strength will always be his calling card when rushing the passer. Uiagalelei must streamline his pass rush plan.

He can take himself out of a pass rush by overthinking his plan. He can play hesitantly instead of flying upfield. Uiagalelei has the physical tools and potential to be a great defensive end in the NFL. He is a bully, and he can make offensive linemen regret playing him afterwards.

The University of Oregon has a bad taste in its mouth after last year’s playoffs. The Big Ten champion had the toughest quarterfinal draw, a rematch against Ohio State. They lost their first game of the 2024 season in 2025. Their season and the extended playoffs marked that a perfect record isn’t the goal of a national champion; it’s about getting hot at the right time. Oregon is looking to get back to the Big Ten championship and the college football playoffs. Uiagalelei will help lead their defense against a challenging schedule.

Oregon had a strong defense last year, but they needs to improve their run defense. As a junior, Uiagalelei should help them in the trenches a lot more.

The Commanders have done a great job building around franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels. The team has invested a significant amount of resources in building up its offense. It’s time for the team to focus on the defense. The Commanders have recently rebuilt their defensive line, and the team needs to continue this overhaul. They need to find young players to build around. Uiagalelei would be a great foundational pick for the Commanders. He’s a powerful pass rusher who could clear the trenches in Dan Quinn’s defense.

28. Kansas City Chiefs, Jalon Kilgore, CB, South Carolina

Jalon Kilgore is one of the most dominant apex defenders in all senses of the word. Kilgore is a defensive weapon for the South Carolina Gamecocks. Kilgore is entering his third season of college football. He was named Freshman All-SEC and was awarded second-team All-SEC last year. Kilgore flies around the field like a missile. At 6-foot-1, 210 pounds, he hits like a missile, too. Kilgore is an exciting young player who lines up across the field for the Gamecocks. He is a significant part of their defense, and this year he’ll be in a position to lead them through the SEC.

Kilgore is a fantastic linear athlete. His speed and explosiveness are rare traits. He’s a bullet when shooting downhill. It’s why South Carolina allows him to roam the field. Kilgore is at his best when he’s near the ball. He’s made over 120 tackles throughout his career. Kilgore sits back in coverage and does a good job of watching both the quarterback and the nearest receiver. He does a good job of breaking on the ball, recording 11 pass deflections and six interceptions in his first two years. Kilgore primarily sticks to the slot or the box, and he doesn’t have a lot of experience playing as an outside cornerback.

He’s not asked to press a lot, and hasn’t shown the ability to stick with receivers from start to finish. He plays a lot of off coverage and struggles to stick with crafty receivers at the top of the route. He could mitigate concerns if he displayed proficiency in press coverage. He’s fast and strong; he has the tools to smother receivers at the start of routes, but he’s never been asked to do so. Kilgore projects as a tweener at the next level. Relegated to the slot, as teams must decide if he’s a cornerback or a safety. If Kilgore can show a variety of coverage techniques, he could convince teams he has the potential to grow into a shutdown cornerback. If not, it’ll still be clear that he’s one of the best football players in college.

Kilgore has a significant opportunity to lead the Gamecocks this year. South Carolina saw five of their defensive starters leave for the NFL. The Gamecocks are relying on a mix of highly ranked transfers, homegrown talent, and their two defensive stars, Kilgore and Dylan Stewart, a sophomore and one of the best pass rushers in college. South Carolina had one of the best defenses in college football last season, and they need to repeat. They have a daunting SEC schedule and their rivalry game with Clemson. South Carolina has a talented team with playoff aspirations. Kilgore must make sure the defense returns to its elite form. He’s their defensive weapon in the backfield, but he must show he can be their field general too. The Gamecocks are counting on him if they want to make a run for the SEC title and the National Championship.

The Kansas City Chiefs have done a great job of getting the best football players in the first round. Steve Spagnuolo has done an excellent job of building his defenses around great players deemed as tweeners by other teams. George Karlaftis, Leo Chanal, and Nick Bolton have been major success stories for the Chiefs. It’s time to give Spagnuolo another weapon. He’ll know exactly what to do with a talent like Kilgore. He would be a fantastic addition to an unconventional and hyper-aggressive defense.

The Chiefs need more help in the defensive backfield. They have a great run defense, but an average passing defense. With longtime starter Trent McDuffie entering his fifth-year option in 2026, the Chiefs may want to find him a running mate or his replacement. Kilgore would be a good option for either route.

29. Detroit Lions, Nic Anderson, WR, LSU

Nic Anderson is one of the most dynamic receivers in college football. Anderson is a big-bodied receiving threat. The 6-foot-3, 205-pound receiver transferred to Louisiana State University after starting his career at Oklahoma. Anderson had a breakout redshirt freshman season in 2023, but sat out last year with a quad injury. He is looking for a bounce-back season with Garrett Nussmeier and the Tigers. Anderson is a dynamic receiving threat with the strength and speed to score from anywhere on the field. Anderson has all the tools to be a wide receiver in the NFL, but he must prove it this season.

Anderson is a talented receiver with a unique skill set. He has prototypical size, and he’s a fantastic athlete with a rare blend of strength and agility. He’s a good route runner who makes effortless cuts like he’s playing basketball. Anderson has the strength to combat defenders through the route. Anderson isn’t afraid to use his size to keep a defender away from his frame. Anderson doesn’t have blazing speed, but his acceleration and strength make him a dangerous deep play threat. Anderson is a tremendous talent, but lacks the production to match. He must have a great season with the Tigers.

The LSU Tigers have rebuilt their passing attack around star quarterback Nussmeier. Nuessmeier is an incredibly accurate quarterback who trusts his receivers to make the big play. Anderson should have a productive year catching passes from one of the best field generals in college football. The Tigers are making a run for the SEC title. They have one of the most demanding schedules in college football. They’ll be relying on their offense to outscore everyone. Anderson will be one of their best receivers.

The Detroit Lions are always looking for ways to add to their passing attack. The Lions do a great job of surrounding their quarterback with talent. The team has prioritized adding fast receivers with gigantic catch radii. Anderson would fit in well in their receiving room. He has prototypical size for the X role with a strong willingness to block. He has inside-out versatility and can play across the formation.

The Lions have Jameson Williams under contract for another season, and they have a buy-out option in Amon-Ra St. Brown’s contract in 2028. Anderson would be a great option to groom as a successor to either player. The Lions do a great job of finding Jared Goff’s weapons. Anderson would be a great addition to their arsenal.

30. Buffalo Bills, Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame

Jeremiah Love is one of the most electric playmakers in college football. Love is the star running back for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He had a fantastic sophomore season, leading Notre Dame to the College Football Championship game. Love is an athletic marvel at 6-foot, 210 pounds; he’s most known for leaping over defenders. Love is a rare running back who can run through, pass, or over and above a defender. The true junior is among the best players in college football. He’s a popular dark horse in the gambling markets to win the Heisman award. If he leads Notre Dame to the College Football Playoffs, he’ll be at the Heisman ceremony.

Love is a three-down back. He can contribute through the ground game and the passing attack. He’s a powerful runner who can march through the teeth of a defense. He’s quick and agile to run around defenders. Plus, he loves to hurdle over them. In the passing game, Love is a promising contributor. He’s an above-average route runner with special yards after the catch skills. Love does a good job of framing passes with his hands before catching them. He’s even shown off his prowess as a pass protector. Love is a special back who won’t come off the field in the NFL. The only reason Love is slotted so low is that the NFL has devalued the position.

Teams hem and haw over drafting the best prospects, just because they play running back. While running backs are having a resurgence as defenses shift their priority to stopping aerial passing attacks, it’s still hard to assume teams will prioritize them during the draft. Love is a great three-down running back, and teams would be foolish to pass on him.Love will be the engine of Notre Dame’s offense. The organization is starting a young quarterback and must rely on Love to bring consistency to the offense.

Love will be running with a significant target on his back as defenses prioritize stopping the run. Love is hoping to have a Heisman campaign as he leads Notre Dame to the playoffs. He’ll have an excellent opportunity to prove he’s the best player in college football, as defenses will do everything they can to stop him.

The Buffalo Bills have invested a lot in their rushing attack. The organization had a contentious negotiation with star running back James Cook. However, the contract shouldn’t prevent them from drafting a superstar. MVP quarterback Joshua Allen needs all of the playmakers he can get. The move would help the Bills keep the legs of Love and Cook fresh.

31. Baltimore Ravens, L.T. Overton, DE, Alabama

LT Overton is one of the most ferocious defenders in college football. Overton is the latest defensive weapon from Alabama. He is a fantastic athlete who can line up across the front-seven. Overton is a former five-star recruit who reclassified to an earlier class to start his career earlier.

He played for his hometown school, Texas A&M, for his first two years. Overton was born in College Station, Texas, where his father, Milton, worked as the associate Athletic Director between 1999 and 2009. He is currently the Athletic Director of Kennesaw State, after accepting the position in 2017. Overton transferred to Alabama in 2024, where he instantly became a starter.

Overton has the prototypical size for a strong-side defensive end. He stands tall at 6-foot-4 and weighs over 275 pounds. Overton is an athletic marvel with the speed to rush off the edge and the size and strength to reduce inside. Last season, Overton’s versatility helped him wreak a ton of havoc. He recorded 42 combined tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks, and one forced fumble. Overton did a great job of funneling the opposing offense into the teeth of Alabama’s defense. Overton plays with strong and violent hands.

He knocks back offensive linemen at the point of attack. He can control multiple gaps with his combination of strength and size. Overton is one of the best run defenders in college football. He is a massive defensive end, but his body composition is one of his larger weaknesses. The defensive lineman carries a lot of bad weight. Whether it’s to survive the beating of the trenches or due to poor diet, NFL teams will be concerned about their weight. A leaner version of himself could boost Overton’s pass rush. If he increases his flexibility and agility, he could develop into a fearsome pass rusher.

Overton is an integral part of the Alabama defense. The Crimson Tide will rely on him heavily this season to command the front. Overton’s experience will be an asset for Alabama. Alabama had a phenomenal defense last year. Alabama is gearing up for a challenging season. They’re hoping their defense can help lead them through the SEC as their offense develops under a new quarterback. Overton should have a big season for Alabama as he helps lead them to a potential College Football Playoff appearance.

The Baltimore Ravens consistently have one of the best defenses in the NFL. The Ravens do a great job of investing in their defense year after year. The Ravens will need to bolster their outside linebacker room in 2026. Former first-round pick Odafe Oweh had a breakout season with ten sacks last season. He’s currently playing on his fifth-year option. On the other side, starter Kyle Van Noy is playing in his 12th season, and the final year of his contract. The Ravens must continue adding to their linebacker room.

Overton would be a perfect match for the Ravens. Baltimore loves versatile defensive stars who can line up everywhere and switch their assignments post-snap. Overton would be a powerful weapon in their hands. Overton has all the tools Ravens defenders are known for. He’s strong, powerful, quick, mean, and intelligent. He’d find a great home in Baltimore.

32. Philadelphia Eagles, Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami

Francis Mauigoa is one of the most dominant tackles in college football. He’s a physical marvel. He’s 6-foot-6, 315 pounds of muscle. He’s a powerful athlete with great speed and strength. Mauigoa was a five-star recruit from IMG Academy in South Florida and committed to the Miami Hurricanes. Mauigoa has started at right tackle since his freshman season. Last season, he protected number one overall pick Cam Ward. He was named second-team All-ACC for his efforts.

Mauigoa has all the tools to be a great tackle in the NFL. He’s quick, strong, and mean. Mauigoa is a nasty run defender on the search for pancakes. He likes to drive defenders into the ground. Mauigoa is a smooth mover; he climbs to the second level well. He has a strong punch to win at the point of attack. Mauigoa is too over-reliant on his power when pass blocking. He’s eager to stop his feet and stalemate pass rushers too frequently. He needs to show he has a variety of ways to win. Mauigoa must refine his technique to continue improving his game. He needs to clean up his footwork and strikes. Mauigoa has the athleticism and intangibles to develop into a great offensive tackle; however, he must significantly improve his craft to succeed at the next level.

Mauigoa and the Hurricanes have a big season ahead of them. The Hurricanes had a disappointing end to a season that saw them ranked in the top ten for the majority of it. The Hurricanes are hoping to bounce back with quarterback Carson Beck, the transfer from Georgia. Mauigoa will have a crucial role in protecting Beck. The Hurricanes have a tough schedule, and they’ll need their offense to lead them to the playoffs. They’ll need to recreate their prolific passing offense to compete for an ACC championship.

Mauigoa will hopefully pave the way for the Hurricanes. The Philadelphia Eagles are one of the best teams in the NFL, defending Super Bowl champions, and among the favorites to repeat. General manager Howie Roseman does a great job of investing in valuable positions. The approach is helping the eagle stay ahead of the curve. Stocked with premier talent, the Eagles continue their strategy by drafting Mauigoa.

Eagle long-time captain Lane Johnson is entering his 13th season in the NFL. The Eagles must search for his replacement. Mauigoa would be a good fit for the Eagles. He has all the physical tools to become a dominant tackle, but lacks the proper football intelligence and technique to achieve that currently. The Eagles would be the perfect team to help him learn.

This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Browns land new QB of the future in 2026 NFL mock draft

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