NFL Mock Draft 2026: Projected First Round Based on AS Simulation
As the 2025 NFL season approaches its conclusion, attention turns to the 2026 NFL Draft, where franchises will look to reshape their rosters with the next generation of talent. Even as the actual draft remains months away, simulations and projections offer early insights into potential trajectories. A recent simulation conducted by Spanish sports outlet Diario AS provides a detailed look at how the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft might unfold, based on current team needs, player evaluations, and projected college performances.
this simulation is a projection and not an official prediction. The actual draft order and selections will be influenced by numerous factors, including team records, trades, and unforeseen developments in player performance or health. Nevertheless, such exercises help frame the conversation around team needs and emerging prospects.
The simulation, as reported by Diario AS, projects the following selections for the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft:
- 1. Tennessee Titans: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
- 2. Cleveland Browns: Abdul Carter, LB/DE, Penn State
- 3. New York Giants: Malcolm Simmons, OT, Ohio State
- 4. New England Patriots: Jordan Jefferson, QB, Oregon
- 5. Las Vegas Raiders: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
- 6. Washington Commanders: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
- 7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Joshua Gray, EDGE, Georgia
- 8. Arizona Cardinals: Dante Moore, QB, UCLA
- 9. Carolina Panthers: Tykee Smith, S, Georgia
- 10. Seattle Seahawks: Samuel Womack III, CB, Florida State
- 11. New Orleans Saints: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
- 12. Atlanta Falcons: Donovan Jackson, OL, Ohio State
- 13. Dallas Cowboys: James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
- 14. Pittsburgh Steelers: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
- 15. Miami Dolphins: Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami (FL)
- 16. Indianapolis Colts: Malcolm Rodriguez, LB, Oklahoma State
- 17. Cincinnati Bengals: Kaleb Johnson, RB, Iowa
- 18. Denver Broncos: Donovan Edwards, RB, Michigan
- 19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Xavier Watts, S, Notre Dame
- 20. Houston Texans: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
- 21. Philadelphia Eagles: Armand Membou, OL, Missouri
- 22. Detroit Lions: Kristopher Mitchell, DT, Florida
- 23. Green Bay Packers: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
- 24. Buffalo Bills: Ryan Williams, RB, Alabama
- 25. San Francisco 49ers: Justin Echols, LB, LSU
The simulation continues with selections 26 through 32, projecting the following:
- 26. Miami Dolphins (from Eagles): Tykee Suggs, EDGE, South Carolina
- 27. Dallas Cowboys (from Packers): Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas
- 28. Los Angeles Chargers: Shedrick Jackson, WR, South Carolina
- 29. Minnesota Vikings: Anthony Gould, WR, Oregon State
The simulation presented by Diario AS offers one perspective on how the 2026 NFL Draft’s first round might unfold. However, it is crucial to emphasize that mock drafts are speculative by nature and subject to change as the college football season progresses and teams evaluate their needs. The actual draft will reflect the unique circumstances and decisions of each franchise at that time.
For fans and analysts, such simulations serve as a starting point for discussion about team needs, player potential, and the strategic considerations that shape NFL roster building. As the 2025 season unfolds and more information becomes available about prospects and team situations, projections will continue to evolve.
The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to grab place in the spring of 2026, with the exact date and location to be announced by the NFL in the coming months. Fans are encouraged to follow official NFL channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the draft process.
What are your thoughts on these projected first-round selections? Share your predictions and insights in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with fellow football fans who are already looking ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft.
