The NFL Draft is just over a month away, and with free agency now in the rearview mirror, teams’ positional priorities are beginning to take shape. While much remains unsettled, a clearer picture is emerging across the league.
It appears the Las Vegas Raiders are poised to select Fernando Mendoza, the quarterback out of Indiana. However, uncertainty still surrounds the New York Jets and their direction. Questions also linger about what the Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans will do with the No. 3 and No. 4 picks.
One of the wildest offseasons in recent memory included the Baltimore Ravens pulling out at the last moment in their pursuit of Maxx Crosby, Alec Pierce landing a deal worth just under $30 million annually, and Mike Evans departing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after 12 standout seasons.
With pro days still underway and both the NFL Combine and Senior Bowl complete, several prospects have boosted their draft stock. Players such as David Bailey, Olaivavega Ioane and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren appear to have solidified themselves as first-round picks, while Peter Woods and Keldric Faulk have seen their stock dip.
Another storyline to watch is whether a second quarterback will be selected in the first round, with Ty Simpson as the leading candidate.
Matt Goldman and Bijan Pulley will split the selections evenly, making 16 picks each. Goldman will handle the even-numbered picks, while Pulley will take the odds.
Here is the post-free agency NFL mock draft ahead of the draft, scheduled for April 23 in Pittsburgh.
Fernando Mendoza is the top quarterback in this class, and Las Vegas’ offseason moves strongly suggest this direction. New coach Klint Kubiak brings a Shanahan-style system that emphasizes timing and accuracy, while the addition of Tyler Linderbaum solidifies the offensive line. Mendoza is a poised pocket passer who can attack all levels of the field and extend plays when necessary. While not an elite athlete, he can move enough to pick up key yards and contribute in the red zone. He still needs to improve his decision-making under pressure and overall accuracy. With weapons like Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty, Mendoza enters a favorable situation to develop into a franchise quarterback.
The Jets take the best player available after creating a major need by trading Jermaine Johnson II. While free agency additions like Joseph Ossai and Kingsley Enagbare provide depth, the defense still lacks a true difference-maker off the edge. Arvell Reese offers rare versatility, capable of lining up as an edge rusher or off-ball linebacker. His athletic profile and explosiveness allow him to disrupt plays in multiple ways, drawing comparisons to Micah Parsons. Reese can rush the passer, drop into coverage and defend the run at a high level. Paired with Demario Davis, he gives New York a dynamic front-seven piece who can become the centerpiece of the defense for years.
Arizona addresses one of the league’s weakest offensive lines after ranking near the bottom in sacks, pressures and hurries allowed. Francis Mauigoa is one of the most complete linemen in the class, offering strength in both pass protection and run blocking. His size, technique and footwork make him a reliable presence on the edge, while his versatility allows him to play multiple positions if needed. With Kyler Murray no longer on the roster, protecting Jacoby Brissett and stabilizing the offense becomes even more critical. Mauigoa provides immediate help and long-term upside, giving Arizona a foundational piece as it looks to rebuild its offense and eventually support a future franchise quarterback.
Tennessee adds a much-needed offensive playmaker in Jeremiyah Love, addressing a unit that lacks explosiveness. Love has been one of the most productive and dynamic running backs in college football, combining speed, vision and versatility. He can contribute as both a runner and receiver, making him a valuable weapon in multiple situations. Pairing him with Tony Pollard gives the Titans a strong one-two punch in the backfield, easing pressure on the passing game. With a developing offensive line and limited proven playmakers, Love has an opportunity to make an immediate impact. His ability to generate big plays could help reshape Tennessee’s offensive identity moving forward.
The Giants focus on rebuilding their linebacker corps after moving on from Bobby Okereke. Sonny Styles provides a long-term solution with elite athleticism and strong instincts. He is a versatile defender who can impact all phases of the game, excelling in coverage, run defense and as a blitzer. Styles diagnoses plays quickly and uses his physical tools to disrupt offenses before they develop. His ability to tackle in space and defend modern passing attacks makes him especially valuable. With Tremaine Edmunds serving as a short-term option, Styles gives New York a foundational piece for the future. He has the potential to become a leader and centerpiece of the defense.
Monroe Freeling continues his rise after an impressive combine and strong performances at Georgia. Cleveland has already invested heavily in its offensive line during free agency, adding experienced veterans to stabilize the unit. Freeling brings additional upside with his size, athleticism and experience in a top-tier college system. He has proven he can protect the quarterback and create running lanes against elite competition. His addition gives the Browns flexibility and depth while strengthening protection for Shedeur Sanders. With Quinshon Judkins also in the backfield, a strong offensive line will be key to the team’s success. Freeling could develop into a long-term starter and anchor for the unit.
Washington continues its defensive rebuild by selecting Caleb Downs, widely regarded as one of the best overall players in the draft. Downs is an elite playmaker with the versatility to line up as a deep safety, in the box or as a blitzer. His football intelligence and instincts allow him to anticipate plays and make impact decisions quickly. Despite multiple defensive additions in free agency, safety remains a need, and Downs fills it immediately. He brings leadership, consistency and game-changing ability to the secondary. With his skill set, Downs has the potential to become the cornerstone of Washington’s defense and elevate the entire unit for years to come.
David Bailey falling to New Orleans provides tremendous value for a team needing pass-rush help. Bailey combines elite production with strong athletic traits, making him one of the most complete edge defenders in the class. With uncertainty at the position, he can step in and contribute immediately. Bailey has the ability to win with speed and power, while also holding his own against the run. His experience at both Stanford and Texas Tech shows his adaptability and consistency. The Saints need a reliable presence off the edge, and Bailey offers that with long-term upside. He could quickly become a focal point of the defense and a contender for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Kansas City addresses its need for a consistent pass rusher opposite Chris Jones by selecting Rueben Bain Jr. Bain is one of the most polished edge defenders in the class, with a deep arsenal of pass-rush moves and the ability to win with both power and technique. Despite concerns about his arm length, his production and film stand out. He has shown he can consistently pressure quarterbacks and contribute against the run. In Kansas City’s system, Bain would have the opportunity to make an immediate impact while benefiting from playing alongside an elite defensive lineman. His addition strengthens the defense and gives the Chiefs another disruptive force up front.
Cincinnati addresses a major need in the secondary by selecting Mansoor Delane. With key departures at cornerback, the Bengals require a player who can step in and contribute immediately. Delane excels in both man and zone coverage, showing the ability to match up against top receivers. His physicality, awareness and ball skills make him a reliable defender on the outside. He brings experience from a high-level program and has consistently performed against strong competition. Delane has the potential to become the top cornerback on the roster from day one. His addition helps stabilize the defense and provides a long-term solution at a critical position.
Miami continues its rebuild by selecting Jermod McCoy, a high-upside cornerback with proven talent. Although he is recovering from a torn ACL, his 2024 performance showed he can compete at an elite level. McCoy possesses the size, speed and instincts needed to succeed as a boundary corner in the NFL. He is comfortable in both man and zone coverage, making him a versatile addition to the secondary. With limited proven talent at the position, McCoy has a clear path to early playing time. If he returns to form, he could become one of the best players in the class. This pick reflects Miami’s focus on long-term growth.
Dallas makes a slight reach but fills a clear need at linebacker with CJ Allen. Known for his leadership and high football IQ, Allen was a key piece of Georgia’s defense. He is a physical, downhill tackler who thrives against the run and brings intensity to every play. With injury concerns at the position, the Cowboys need stability, and Allen provides that. He also offers the ability to develop into a defensive leader over time. While not the flashiest pick, his consistency and reliability make him valuable. In Dallas’ system, Allen has the opportunity to grow into a central figure on defense and contribute early in his career.
The Rams look toward the future by selecting Makai Lemon as a potential successor at wide receiver. With Davante Adams nearing the end of his career, Los Angeles prepares for a transition. Lemon is a dynamic playmaker with strong route-running ability and impressive yards-after-catch skills. He primarily operates out of the slot but has the versatility to play outside when needed. Despite his size, he consistently makes difficult catches and creates separation. Pairing him with Puka Nacua gives the Rams a promising receiving duo for the future. Lemon’s explosiveness and playmaking ability could allow him to contribute early while developing into a top target.
Baltimore adds another weapon for Lamar Jackson by selecting Carnell Tate. Tate is widely regarded as one of the best receivers in the class due to his ability to create separation and make plays downfield. He complements Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, giving the Ravens a more balanced and dangerous passing attack. While he still needs to improve against press coverage, his overall skill set makes him a strong addition. Tate’s route running, hands and awareness allow him to consistently get open and contribute in key situations. This pick helps address concerns about offensive production and gives Baltimore another reliable option in the passing game.
Tampa Bay addresses its need for improved pass rush by selecting Akheem Mesidor. Despite ranking well in pressures, the Buccaneers struggled to convert those into sacks. Mesidor brings experience, technique and a variety of pass-rush moves that can help close that gap. Although he will be older than most rookies, his readiness makes him an immediate contributor. He may not project as a dominant star, but he can play a key supporting role on the defensive line. His ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks makes him a valuable addition. Mesidor gives Tampa Bay a reliable presence who can help elevate the defense’s overall performance.
The Jets continue to build around their offense by adding Jordyn Tyson to complement Garrett Wilson. Tyson is a talented receiver with strong speed, route-running ability and playmaking skills. Despite dealing with a hamstring injury, he has shown the potential to be a productive contributor. New York lacked consistent receiving options last season, making this addition important. Tyson provides another reliable target and helps diversify the passing attack. With Geno Smith returning, adding more weapons becomes a priority. Tyson’s ability to stretch the field and create big plays could make him an immediate contributor while developing into a key piece of the offense.
Detroit continues to build through the trenches under coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes. After once having one of the league’s top offensive lines, the unit has regressed to closer to average. Olaivavega Ioane helps restore that identity. He has a wide frame, strong hands and the power to control defenders once engaged. Ioane excels as a run blocker, fitting Detroit’s physical style, while showing enough ability in pass protection to be a reliable starter. He projects as a Day 1 contributor at guard with long-term upside. With proper development, Ioane has the potential to become a Pro Bowl-caliber interior lineman and reestablish Detroit’s dominance up front.
With Harrison Smith no longer on the roster, Minnesota looks to the future at safety. Dillon Thieneman gives defensive coordinator Brian Flores a versatile and explosive playmaker. Thieneman possesses elite speed and range, allowing him to impact the game as a deep safety or near the line of scrimmage. His instincts and physicality make him effective against both the pass and the run. Minnesota already fields a strong defense, and adding Thieneman further strengthens the unit. He has the tools to develop into a long-term cornerstone in the secondary. In Flores’ aggressive scheme, Thieneman’s versatility and playmaking ability could elevate the Vikings’ defense to another level.
Carolina adds a dynamic offensive weapon in Kenyon Sadiq, following the recent success of rookie tight ends making immediate impacts. Sadiq is an athletic, versatile playmaker who can line up inline, in the slot or out wide. His ability to stretch the field and create mismatches makes him a valuable addition to the offense. He complements a young receiving corps that includes Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker. Sadiq’s combination of speed, size and ball skills allows him to generate explosive plays and serve as a reliable target in key situations. For a team looking to build around its offense, Sadiq provides both immediate production and long-term upside.
Dallas finds value in Spencer Fano, a versatile lineman capable of playing both tackle and guard. While he may be selected later than expected, his skill set fits the Cowboys’ identity. Fano is arguably the best run blocker in the class, using strength and excellent lateral movement to create lanes. His ability to get to the second level makes him especially effective in the ground game. Pairing him with Tyler Booker gives Dallas back-to-back investments in the offensive line, reinforcing its foundation. With Javonte Williams in the backfield, Fano’s presence could help fuel a productive rushing attack. His versatility and physicality make him a strong addition.
Pittsburgh adds another weapon to its receiving corps with Omar Cooper Jr., who complements DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. Cooper brings physicality, strong hands and impressive contact balance. He excels at turning short gains into explosive plays by breaking tackles and fighting for extra yards. His ball skills make him a reliable option in contested situations, particularly in the red zone. Cooper has consistently produced in big moments, including a game-winning touchdown against Penn State. His ability to create after the catch and secure difficult passes adds another dimension to the offense. For Pittsburgh, Cooper provides a dependable target with playmaking upside.
The Chargers continue building a complete roster under coach Jim Harbaugh by addressing the interior defensive line. While the addition of Dalvin Tomlinson provides stability, more depth is needed. Kayden McDonald offers reliability and strength as a run defender, along with an explosive first step that helps him disrupt plays early. He has consistently performed at a high level at Ohio State and projects as a Day 1 contributor. McDonald’s presence will help clog running lanes and free up edge rushers to make plays. On a team with playoff aspirations, his ability to anchor the defensive line makes him a valuable addition to an already strong roster.
Philadelphia continues its strategy of drafting ahead of need by selecting Max Iheanachor. Although some view him as a developmental prospect, he has shown steady growth and possesses intriguing physical tools. Iheanachor has the strength to contribute in the run game and has improved in pass protection. With Lane Johnson nearing the end of his career, this pick provides a long-term plan at tackle. Iheanachor will have the opportunity to develop behind a proven veteran while refining his technique. The Eagles’ track record of developing offensive linemen makes this an ideal situation. Over time, Iheanachor could grow into a reliable starter and key piece of the offense.
Cleveland adds a receiving option for Shedeur Sanders by selecting Denzel Boston. Boston has been a productive target in Washington’s offense, using his size and catch radius to make plays. While he may lack elite speed, his strong hands and ability to win contested catches make him a valuable asset. With Jerry Jeudy currently leading the receiving corps, Boston has an opportunity to carve out a significant role early. His skill set fits well in an offense that needs reliable pass catchers. If he builds chemistry with Sanders, Boston could emerge as a go-to target and provide much-needed stability to the passing game.
Chicago takes a chance on high-upside defensive lineman Caleb Banks. At 6-foot-6 and 327 pounds with long arms, Banks possesses rare physical traits. He uses quick, powerful hands to disrupt offensive linemen and impact both the run and pass game. However, injuries have limited his availability, including a recent foot issue that required surgery. Despite those concerns, his talent makes him a potential steal at this point in the draft. If he can stay healthy, Banks has the ability to outperform his draft position significantly. For a Bears defensive line in need of improvement, this pick offers both immediate potential and long-term reward.
Buffalo looks to replace Matt Milano by selecting Jacob Rodriguez, a highly productive linebacker. Rodriguez is known for filling the stat sheet, using his instincts and motor to impact games in multiple ways. He excels in downhill pursuit and has a knack for creating turnovers. In a defense that frequently uses nickel packages, his versatility is especially valuable. Under coordinator Jim Leonhard, Rodriguez could thrive as a modern linebacker capable of handling both run and pass responsibilities. His leadership and playmaking ability make him a strong candidate to become the next centerpiece of Buffalo’s defense and maintain the unit’s high level of performance.
San Francisco addresses its secondary by selecting Emmanuel McNeil-Warren. At 6-foot-3, he brings size, range and physicality to the safety position. McNeil-Warren is capable of playing deep coverage while also matching up against larger receivers and athletic tight ends. His willingness to deliver hard hits over the middle adds an edge to the defense. The 49ers need improvement in the secondary to return to championship contention, and this pick helps address that weakness. McNeil-Warren’s combination of physical tools and versatility gives him the potential to develop into a key contributor. He adds depth immediately and could grow into a starter.
Houston strengthens its defensive front with Lee Hunter, one of the strongest players in the draft. Hunter combines power with surprising mobility, allowing him to disrupt plays along the interior. His physical style fits well with coach DeMeco Ryans’ defensive philosophy. Playing alongside edge rushers Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter gives him an opportunity to make an immediate impact. Learning from veteran Sheldon Rankins also provides valuable development. Hunter’s ability to control the line of scrimmage and occupy blockers will benefit the entire defense. For a team already considered among the league’s best defensively, this addition further solidifies its dominance in the trenches.
Kansas City addresses a depleted cornerback group by selecting Avieon Terrell. Despite lacking ideal size, Terrell is a skilled defender who performs well in both man and zone coverage. He shows strong instincts, solid tackling ability and a willingness to contribute in run support. His ball skills allow him to compete effectively against larger receivers. With key departures in the secondary, Terrell has a chance to earn immediate playing time. Under coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, he can continue to develop his technique and awareness. This pick provides Kansas City with a much-needed addition to stabilize the secondary and maintain defensive consistency.
Miami adds value by selecting Keldric Faulk, a player once projected as a top pick. Although his stock has slightly declined, his talent remains evident. Faulk possesses elite length and versatility, allowing him to fit in multiple defensive schemes. With the departures of key pass rushers, Miami needs to rebuild its front, and Faulk offers immediate potential. Pairing him with Chop Robinson gives the defense a promising foundation. Faulk must improve his pad level and consistency, but his physical tools are undeniable. For a rebuilding team, this selection represents a low-risk, high-reward move that could pay off significantly if he reaches his potential.
New England continues to rebuild its receiving corps by selecting KC Concepcion. While the addition of Romeo Doubs provides support, more playmaking is needed. Concepcion is an explosive athlete who has developed into a more polished receiver over time. He offers big-play ability and can stretch the field, giving the offense a new dimension. However, he still needs to improve his hands and route running to reach his full potential. With proper development, he could become a key target for Drake Maye. This pick reflects a long-term investment in the passing game, with the potential to form a productive quarterback-receiver connection.
Seattle closes the first round by addressing the secondary with Colton Hood. Following the departure of Riq Woolen, adding another cornerback became a priority. Hood brings elite ball skills and an aggressive playing style, often resembling a safety in his approach. He excels in press coverage, using physicality to disrupt receivers at the line. While he can be prone to penalties, his upside is significant. Pairing him with Devon Witherspoon gives Seattle a strong cornerback duo. On a championship-caliber roster, Hood has the opportunity to contribute early. His development could further strengthen one of the league’s most talented defenses.
