NFL Draft 2026: Cowboys, Rams, and Chiefs Poised to Shake Up First Round
With the 2026 NFL Draft just two weeks away, the league is bracing for a first round defined by high-stakes gambles and aggressive maneuvering. While the top of the board offers a rare moment of certainty, the middle and late sections of the first round are expected to be volatile, as the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Rams, and Kansas City Chiefs look to reshape their rosters through blockbuster trades.
The event is scheduled to take place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, where 32 teams will attempt to secure the next generation of franchise cornerstones. While analysts generally agree on the first overall selection, the ripple effects of subsequent picks—and the teams willing to trade up for specific targets—could fundamentally alter the competitive landscape of the NFL.
The Lock at No. 1: Fernando Mendoza to Las Vegas
If there is one projection that carries a high level of confidence, it is Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza going No. 1 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. Mendoza, a 6-foot-5, 236-pound junior and Heisman Trophy winner, is viewed as a “can’t-miss” prospect. His pro day further solidified his status as a premier dropback passer with a winning pedigree.
The Raiders appear fully committed to this new era, with reports indicating they will not field trade offers for the top spot. The organization has already signaled its commitment to Mendoza’s success by signing veteran center Tyler Linderbaum, providing the young quarterback with a seasoned presence at the heart of the offensive line. Under the guidance of Klint Kubiak’s offense and the influence of Tom Brady within the front office, Mendoza is expected to be the immediate face of the franchise.
Dallas, LA, and Kansas City: The Trade Candidates
While the Raiders are staying put, other contenders are expected to be far more active. The Dallas Cowboys, in particular, are projected to be aggressive. Some forecasts suggest Dallas will trade into the top 10 to secure a star defender. With the necessitate to fill the void left by Micah Parsons, the Cowboys may “double up” on defense, potentially targeting top cornerback Mansoor Delane to fortify their secondary.
Similarly, the Los Angeles Rams are being linked to a potential quarterback pivot. Analysts have questioned which playoff teams might scoop up Alabama QB Ty Simpson, with the Rams identified as a team that could snag a high-profile QB prospect to ensure long-term stability at the position.
The Kansas City Chiefs are likewise highlighted as a team ready to disrupt the first round. While specific targets remain speculative, the Chiefs’ history of strategic drafting and trading suggests they may seek a specific piece to maintain their championship window, potentially shaking up the board in the middle of the first round.
Quick Context: In the NFL Draft, “trading up” occurs when a team gives away future draft picks or current assets to move to a higher position in the order, allowing them to select a specific player before other teams have the chance.
Chaos in the Top Five: Jets, Commanders, and Cardinals
Beyond the first pick, the board becomes significantly more complex. The New York Jets hold the No. 2 pick and are reportedly weighing two elite edge-rushing options: David Bailey of Texas Tech and Arvell Reese of Ohio State. Reese, a versatile linebacker/edge hybrid, is viewed as a dynamic playmaker who could serve as a “chess piece” for the Jets’ defense under Aaron Glenn and Brian Duker.
Further down the line, the Washington Commanders are projected to be active in the trade market. Reports suggest the Commanders may trade up with the Arizona Cardinals to select Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. Washington views Love as a necessary workhorse to complement Rachaad White and boost the offensive production of Jayden Daniels, with David Blough taking over offensive duties.
The Arizona Cardinals, meanwhile, face a franchise crossroads. With speculation surrounding whether Kyler Murray remains the long-term answer at quarterback, the Cardinals may focus on foundational pieces. One strong projection sees them taking Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano to stabilize a struggling offensive line.
Draft Class Dynamics and the Road to Pittsburgh
The 2026 class is viewed differently than the 2025 cycle. A year ago, the top four picks were considered almost “etched in stone.” This year, however, the lack of deep quarterback depth beyond the top tier has forced teams to look at diverse positions—from powerhouse running backs to versatile edge rushers—much earlier in the first round.
This shift in strategy comes as the league recovers from Super Bowl LX, which featured a showdown between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. The results of that game, combined with the recent Senior Bowl and East-West Shrine Bowl, have shaped the current scouting evaluations heading into the final two-week countdown.
Projected Early First Round Outlook
| Pick | Projected Team | Projected Player | Position/School |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Las Vegas Raiders | Fernando Mendoza | QB, Indiana |
| 2 | New York Jets | Arvell Reese / David Bailey | LB/EDGE, Ohio State / Texas Tech |
| 3 | Washington Commanders* | Jeremiyah Love | RB, Notre Dame |
| 4 | Tennessee Titans | Rueben Bain Jr. | TBD |
| 5 | Arizona Cardinals* | Spencer Fano | OT, Utah |
*Indicates projected trade movement.
What to Watch Next
As the NFL moves toward April 23, the focus will shift to final team visits and the completion of draft boards. The primary storylines will be whether the Cowboys successfully move up for a defensive anchor and if the Rams commit to a quarterback change.
The 2026 NFL Draft officially begins on April 23 in Pittsburgh. Stay tuned to Archysport for live updates and comprehensive analysis as the first round unfolds.
Do you think the Cowboys should trade up for a cornerback, or should they prioritize the edge? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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