2026 NFL Draft Storylines

April 21, 2026

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2026 NFL DRAFT STORYLINES (updated from 4/13/26)

FINAL PRE-DRAFT PUBLICATION – April 20^th, 2026

Written by Ron Marmalefsky @ronacesports

MY DRAFT BOARD: I have 168 numerically rated players and 69 players who received a * (also-eligible, draft worthy) rating.

I adjust ratings after the draft based on person-team fit. As a reminder, * rated players are draft worthy, but only after the numerically players come off the board. I studied (at least partly) about 405 players, 80 fewer than usual. A dozen or more prospects will require more study after they are selected, while there will be a group of players drafted that I will not have studied at all. Some players may be added to my draft eligible list, while others could fall off after I receive more information. The total # of draft eligible players won’t vary too much from what I’ve set pre-draft. The pre-draft board is set.

Here’s a few more words about each position, and an attempt to isolate gaps in talent levels as well.

QB: Ty Simpson is a tough study. I can’t decide on round one or two. I have only five numerically ranked QB’s, an all-time low.

RB: There’s a massive gap after Love, with no one else in my current top 47 players. This is a complementary RB group only.

WR: They’ll be the usual 30+ WR’s on my board, but the top three all come with some concerns (they vary). You can get solid WR’s throughout the draft, and as a GM, I’d defer on WR if I had other equally pressing positional needs.

TE: In 2025 TE’s 3 through 9 were all day two worthy. I have far fewer in 2026. The bulk of the rated talent belongs in round 4.

OL: I like the OT/OG group up to a point, but suspect many current OT’s will shift inside later in their careers. As usual, OL is best chosen early (1^st 40-50 picks) as the early round NFL success rate is at its highest for this position.

DE/edge: This is a very deep group, and will be picked early and often in rounds 1-2.

DT: I realize the NFL is morphing away from old-style two-down run stopping DTs, but I still think there’s a place for that type of player, as you want to force teams into 3^rd and long. This 2026 group is talented, but without much of a pass rush presence.

LB: I count Reese at LB, making this a position that will be hit twice in the 1^st ten picks. The overall group is deeper than usual.

CB: I’m starting to warm up to the depth at CB, and as many as five of them could carry 1^st round grades. I think some of the early round CBs will disappoint, but overall, the group seems pretty much in line with past years.

Safety: This might be the fastest safety group on record. Two or three carry early grades, including top ten pick Caleb Downs.

Most of this report was written on April 13^th. Several teams have 4/20 updates as you can see below. The Rest of the Draft section typically receives a more thorough update as well, once I gather more information and perhaps some late Intel. Remember, we have ten new coaches, several new GM’s, and six teams with multiple 1^st round picks. Look for draft chaos?

Las Vegas: This pick is going to be QB Fernando Mendoza. REST OF THE DRAFT: Vegas has met with at least EIGHT WRs, and pick 36 could easily be for someone like Chris Bell, Denzel Boston or Alabama’s Germie Bernard. DB is high on my draft board but only one CB has visited their facility. Las Vegas has ten picks, and needs to make sure that OL is also addressed. Sometimes clues to what team’s are thinking about can be found with the volume of top 30 visits given to a particular position. In this case, DL has been heavily scouted by the draft team. If I get any more Intel I will add it with the 4/20 update of this document. 4/20 UPDATE: Fast rising CB Chris Johnson was a recent top 30 visitor, and if he’s available, maybe Vegas pivots to CB. CB Hood also could be inconsideration, but I still feel it’s WR at 34.
NYJ: The Intel was correct on the Jets last year (OT Membou), and I suspect it will be correct again this year, at least as it relates to what position they will target. LB/Edge rusher Reese is now running neck and neck with David Bailey for this slot. I give the slight edge to Reese, but the Jets are rumored to be leaning to Bailey. Either one would be a fine pick for the Jets. REST OF THE DRAFT: See pick 16, below for a look at the rest of the draft.
Arizona: From last year: 4/19 UPDATE: Arizona is extremely serious about the defensive line. Over half of their TOP-30 private visits are for edge or DT. They did indeed go DL (Nolen). They could go OL again this year with Mauigoa, but defensive stars Reese or Bailey carry higher rated overall grades. As I write this (4/13), the narrative has changed, as OL might be too high for pick 3. RB Love is +1100 to go here. Arizona has met with him, so you never know. If not edge or RB, another option is to trade down. I’ll do more investigating, but so far, Arizona has not met with any of the top three OL. 4/20 UPDATE: Arizona (finally) met with OT Mauigoa, and also met with OT Proctor. I think these were visits in case the Cardinal’s found a trade down partner. REST OF THE DRAFT: IF they want Ty Simpson, the opportunity will be there to trade up as high as pick 20 (Dallas), or more reasonably, pick 28 (Houston) or 32 (Seattle). They could also wait until their own pick 34. I’d wait until 2027, going edge at 34, or OL if they went with Bailey at 3. Perhaps they like another QB instead of Simpson. They met with QB’s Beck and Allar. They could use pick 65 or a later pick if they want to go in that direction. RB James Conner turns 31 years old in May. They should look in that direction later in the draft. No RB’s have been brought in for visits. While my need board shows the Cardinals needing edge and safety (in addition to QB and OL), Arizona has instead kicked the tires on quite a few DTs.
Tennessee: The Titans are in play for RB Love. RB’s matter only when they are paired with a relatively top tier QB, which Ward is not as of now. Tennessee’s problem? Pick 4 is too early for a CB or a WR, my top two areas of need. They could instead pivot to Bailey, Reese, or LB Styles, ahead of the NYG. I think they strongly consider Love, and jump at the chance to draft Bailey or Reese if available. REST OF THE DRAFT: It’s not been easy to correctly read what any Tennessee GM is going to do. My Intel says that they would like to get a WR at pick 35, but the guys they have met with seem to be rising on draft boards and could require a trade up. Being top-heavy in personal meetings, I wonder if this team has a plan for day three targets. Meanwhile, two popular TE’s could be on their radar screen (Stowers, Joly).
NYG: The NYG are also in play for RB Love, but like Tennessee, they don’t have the QB to team him up with. Based on my need board, the best value would be for safety Downs. I think they are looking heavily at LB Styles, but I haven’t seen a top 30 visit from him. That does NOT mean he’s out of consideration. REST OF THE DRAFT: I lack sufficient Intel to know their full draft intentions, but my need board reads run stoppers, WR’s, OG (just lost their right guard) and some DB help. Last year the NYG hid their intentions before drafting QB Dart. The same may be true for 2026. NEW: See pick 10 for further updates.
Cleveland: The Browns were all over the place last year. Here we go again! My top needs for them are WR, OT, DB and RB. WR Tate is in play, and LT still is the primary need up front. They could reach for LT Freeling at this spot, but that’s better achieved with a trade back or something closer to pick #24. Have they kicked the tires on a few WR’s. Yes, as they have looked at eight WR’s, and all eight are expected to be gone by the mid-2^nd round. This pick is very much up in the air, unless they think WR Tate is that much better than the rest of the WR class. REST OF THE DRAFT: I expect some trades, some head-scratching moves, and some draft hits. I’ll address their needs after pick 24, below.
Washington: The Commanders might also be looking at RB Love, and even WR Tate, but here’s where I’d look at CB Delane, since it’s their primary need. If Love is gone, why not trade BACK, as they have no 2^nd round selection. KC and others might trade up to pick 7. I personally think Washington covets RB Love, but an easy to make deal with Arizona (pick 3) is more complicated without a 2^nd round pick. I wouldn’t rule out edge or WR, depending on how the board shakes out. 4/20 UPDATE: Late Intel has them kicking the tires on WR’s Tyson and Cooper. The Washington media does not want them to draft Tyson. REST OF THE DRAFT: With just six picks, moving back once or twice could be considered. The team has added depth this offseason, and now must add impact in the early rounds. Front seven talent must be a priority. Washington has spread out their private visits, with no clearcut trend emerging.
New Orleans: The Saints draft visits are heavily weighted toward WR. 80% of their initial visits were with WRs. I’d look at WR, CB or safety here. WR is my #1 need, but honestly, I’d take two WRs later in the draft, and select either CB Delane or safety Downs in this spot. This is a nice landing spot for either, or for WR Tate. REST OF THE DRAFT: As noted, replenishing the WR room should be a priority. The current WR roster is one of the worst in the NFL. Will this be the 2^nd year in a row that the Saints draft more than six players? Let’s hope so. Mickey Loomis has been here 24 years. Axe him if this fails. 4/20 UPDATE: I think we’ll see a TE draft on day three.
KC: The Chiefs have only three basic needs, and I challenge anyone to say otherwise. They are DB, edge, and RT. I originally thought that the RT can be taken at pick 29 or 40, but there’s a scenario where no OL have yet to be taken. At this time, I do not know what their intentions are. Last year they sat and had OT Simmons fall into their lap. I’ve even heard TE Sadiq, but pick 9 is way too early. For me, edge or DB carry more value here over OL. As I’ve said to others, Chris Jones needs a running mate to rush opposing QBs. Getting an edge rusher could translate to Jones seeing more single coverage. KC fans want a WR, and the Chiefs might accommodate. I was the GM for KC in a mock draft, and I took CB Delane in this spot. 4/20 UPDATE: KC added TE Sadiq late to their top 30 visits. I could amend my need board if they draft an impact TE. REST OF THE DRAFT: See pick 29, below for a look at the rest of the draft.
NYG: NEW with the 4/18 trade: The NYG acquired this pick from Cincinnati in exchange for DE Dexter Lawrence. This could put WR (Tyson) in play earlier than expected (see Rest of the draft section after their pick 5). If they took Styles over safety Downs at pick 5, then maybe they look DB here, hoping that Downs or Delane would be here. Another scenario exists where not even one OL has come off the board. The NYG have options with this pick. 4/20 UPDATE: With the Lawrence trade, add DT to the list of primary needs. DT Lee Hunter has made the rounds, and was a late visitor here as well. The NYG also visited with two OL under the radar and they are day two options. LB Joseph Trotter could be another late day two consideration.
Miami: The Dolphins start the 2026 draft with seven of the 1^st 94 picks. The new GM should target WR or DB here. As of 4/13, I’ve seen eight different players mocked here, and that’s looking at only ten boards! These two areas need multiple picks. OL is a popular pick here for Miami, and to be honest, every position could use some attention, but WR and DB are painfully lacking in talent. The bulk of the early private visits have been for WR and CB. OL however, is 3^rd on my list of needs. 4/20 UPDATE: With the NYG trade, selecting a WR with this pick might be a bit tougher, since the Giants are also looking in that direction. REST OF THE DRAFT: See pick 30 for a look at the rest of their draft.
Dallas: The passive Cowboys usually draft well in the 1^st round. Here’s an opportunity to add additional impact. In a deep edge rusher draft, someone may fall to them. We usually get great 1^st round Intel from Dallas. Right now, signs are pointing to CB’s Delane or McCoy, but edge rusher Bain is now a possibility as his stock is on the decline. As of 4/13, WR seems to be reserved for pick 20 or later. I’ve found out about 26 of their private, Top-30 visits. 21 of those have been for defensive players, with ZERO for the OL. 4/20 UPDATE: There’s an incredible amount of buzz for Dallas moving up to pick 6, trading with Cleveland. Who are they targeting? LB Styles would be a solid fit if he slips past the NYG at pick 5. Maybe they like safety Downs. REST OF THE DRAFT: See pick 20 for a look at the rest of the draft.
LA Rams: The Rams traded pick 29 for CB McDuffie, and are poised to draft in the 1^st round for only the 2^nd time since 2016. I hope LA keeps this pick, but maybe another team entices them like Atlanta did and offers the Rams a bounty of 2027 draft capital. I only have two bolded needs on their board, OL and WR. They could look WR Lemon, or at a number of talented OL that fit this draft range. I’ve seen OL as high as +600 to be their 1^st position drafted. The buzz so far is just OL or WR. LA eschews private visits, and is always secretive about draft day intentions. Until recently I lived very close to their headquarters and still couldn’t get any inside info. There has apparently been some interaction with rising OT Freeling. He’s on the short list for five-six teams. REST OF THE DRAFT: I’m not sure LA needs to keep all nine of their picks like in the past, when the roster badly needed restocking. Seven picks, and one trade up in this draft, plus one acquisition of a day two 2027 draft pick is the way I’d go. I’d use my later picks for an additional run-stopper and a safety. 4/20 UPDATE: The Rams may actually be interested in a day two TE, which slightly surprises me. I occasionally have fun and throw out “random” names that could land with a team. My random match for the Rams is Wisconsin OLB Darryl Peterson.
Baltimore: The Ravens controversially still have this pick after realizing (my Intel) that they were overpaying for Maxx Crosby. I think a large number of players/positions could be considered here. Any of the following players would be fine with me. WR Tyson (good fit with the speedy Zay Flowers), OG Ioane (easily top-rated IOL), DT McDonald (in a small trade back, which is easily doable), TE Sadiq, or if available safety Downs. Based on what I’ve seen, WR may have emerged as an early favorite for pick 14. OG Ioane seems like the perfect fit, but the Ravens have looked instead at other OL. Baltimore lost two of their three TE’s, but have not so far looked at TE Sadiq. NOTE: With another OG (Faalele) gone, OL seems like a very logical way to go with this pick. REST OF THE DRAFT: Baltimore likes to stockpile picks, but for 2026, I do not see the need to draft 11 players. Move UP to secure a higher rated OL, safety and DT when the opportunity exists. Make sure you get a WR that complements the skill set of Flowers. Replenish the TE room. I’m sure the Ravens do not think of 2026 as a rebuilding year, and their draft actions need to reflect that mode of thinking. Why are names such as OG Micah Morris and punter Jeff Yurk keep popping in my head for this team?
Tampa Bay: The Bucs did not surprise me in 2025 by passing on LB Campbell, who was mocked to this team by most analysts, but never was on Tampa’s radar according to my Intel. They DID surprise me by using the pick on a WR, which turned out well for them. TE Sadiq’s range on my board is from pick 14 (Ravens) through pick 23 (Eagles). He’s this coveted partly due to the fact that TE’s in this class fall mostly in the late 3^rd to late 5^th round range. To date, Tampa has not met with Sadiq, but has met with five (now six) TE’s. They have met with a whole bunch of DL, but the theme of the twenty visits I’ve uncovered has been to meet with players OUTSIDE of the 1^st round. I’d be fine with them getting a CB. I also wouldn’t fault them for looking at edge rusher (Bain), whose stock seems to be dropping. Interestingly enough, edge rusher Mesidor has been firmly mocked to Tampa as of 4/13. REST OF THE DRAFT: Other than OL or an impact TE, I’d rather stay defensive through this draft. Tampa did NOT spread their picks around in 2025, but I think they should expand their range this year. The order of how they address their remaining needs should be determined by supply and demand (how the draft is playing out at each position), so they need to be ready with potential options at each area of need. As an aside, they brought in WR Colbie Young for a visit. MOST “analysts have him in the undrafted range, but on the field, I have him as a top 75-85 talent.
NYJ: Assuming an edge rusher at pick #2, the Jets might go WR here. Is CB in play? So far, no. REST OF THE DRAFT: After this, they have picks 33, 44 and 68. Yes, they could go QB with any of these picks. The Jets need to come away with quality at WR, edge rusher, CB and OG. As of 4/13, I lack any late Intel about their day two and three intentions.
Detroit: The Lions took a fine DT last year in the 1^st round, but his draft grade was in the 2^nd round. I suspect this team will remain a bit unpredictable. OT seems like the logical choice, and everyone as of 4/13 agrees. We’ve seen a few drafts recently where OL get targeted early. The pivot for the Lions is NOT WR, but someone on the defensive side of the ball. CB or edge will have players available that fit the 17^th slot. I lack sufficient Intel for this team right now. REST OF THE DRAFT: The Lions have drafted 14 players in rounds 1-3 the past four seasons. 12 of those players came in for top 30 visits. I hope to update this section by 4/20 with more Intel. Sadly, I expect at least two trades UP the draft board, with one of the deals providing the usual comic relief for my team-by-team NFL Draft recap article. Still, the Lions tend to also add rated talent during the draft, and I suspect they will figure things out along the OL, and hopefully address CB with more success than in the past. 4/20 UPDATE: I still lack Intel for this team, but OT Proctor is another name to consider for this spot! Could local product (Michigan), WR Donaven McCulley be a late day target?
Minnesota: The Vikings have an interim GM, which means anything is possible. Maybe they go conservative and mainstream, which would be a good thing for this organization, considering all the draft miscues they have recently had. The ONLY spots they should be looking at with this pick are DL and DB. The players that should be under consideration include edge rushers Faulk, Howell and Mesidor, DT McDonald, CB’s Hood or McCoy, and safeties Thieneman and McNeil-Warren. While I’m waiting for more Intel (deeper dive into the Minnesota beat writer scene), I am SHOCKED that the visits they have conducted are mostly for 3^rd round talent and beyond, with only DT McDonald confirmed as a higher draft choice visitor (and he’s been on numerous other visits). In the analyst world, safety Thieneman is getting nearly 100% of the attention. I haven’t confirmed him as a visit thus far. With a rookie GM, I thought the top 30 visits may carry some weight. To date, the Intel has not provided me with the clues I thought I would have. REST OF THE DRAFT: Minny had the consensus 32^nd and worst draft class a year ago, which I agreed with. Over the last 5 seasons, they reportedly have had the least number of games started by players they have drafted. Also reportedly, the Vikings have spent the second least amount of money in free agency so far this offseason. Like I said a year ago (and that fell on deaf ears), Minnesota must address their defensive backfield. So far, RB, WR and DT have been the clear leaders in receiving their attention. 4/20 UPDATE: I remain shocked that I have yet to gain access to private Minny Intel. A late meeting with safety Skylar Thomas (THE OSU) is not the breaking news I hoped to uncover.
Carolina: All my Carolina top needs are strangely on the defensive side of the ball, despite how erratic the offense has been under Bryce Young. It seems too early to get the 3^rd best LB on the board, so I’d look CB or edge rusher here. With that being said, the Panthers have met with 11 WR’s. TE’s and 4 DTs are next in volume, with QB 4^th. Again, I haven’t seen TE Sadiq visit here, and he would be the logical offensive player to look at. Sadiq is heavily mocked here, but Carolina has met with six different TEs. OT Freeling and edge rusher Faulk are commanding some attention, but so are DT and safety. Respected NFL contributor Josh Norris says pass catcher or OL are the heavy favorites at pick 19. REST OF THE DRAFT: Pick 51 is best suited for LB or edge. Carolina has not met with any LB’s. This has not been the most efficient draft team, so hold your breath that they can accomplish what needs to be done.
Dallas: The Cowboys are back on the clock, but without a 2^nd round pick, they could trade back. I’d try to swing a trade such as the following: Picks 20/112/177 to SF for 27/59/138 and 139. Pick 27 can still yield them a quality CB, LB or edge rusher. I thought WR might (falsely) garner some attention, but the focus remains a defensive one at this point. I show Dallas as meeting with only one WR (Cooper). I don’t believe they will double up om DB’s, but there are eight names of interest to Dallas for this pick, and six of them are CB’s or safeties. The other player they met with that could fall in this draft range is edge rusher Faulk. Going pass rusher and CB/safety with their 1^st two picks is my preferred option. REST OF THE DRAFT: Other then right tackle, I’d stick to drafting for the defense. Dallas has spent extra time with CB Malik Muhammad, Auburn guard Jeremiah Wright, and down the board prospects such as DE Nyjalik Kelly and Nigerian DT Uar Bernard who caused quite a stir with his workout tape. He’s raw. At +325, why not in the 7^th round?
Pittsburgh: The Steelers improved the roster through free agency. Another solid draft would keep them relevant. I had an easy time figuring their draft board out under Tomlin, down to who he had dinner with (incredibly relevant). 2026 will be a test to see if any past tendencies hold true. They remained transparent with their top 30 visits, but the extra Intel I used to get is gone with Tomlin out the door. Two WR’s (Boston, Lemon), two OL (Ioane, Fano) and two DB’s (Chris Johnson, McNeil-Warren) are players who they met with that could be available, some of which would have to drop on draft day. My need board reads DB, run stopper, LB, and LB youth. As of 4/13, OT is the prevailing thought in the draft world, but I might prefer OG, and if Ioane actually dropped this far, I’d do it. I would prefer CB or DT McDonald otherwise. Ty Simpson seems in play only if the Aaron Rodgers decides to retire. REST OF THE DRAFT: I expect the defense to be hit nicely, along with 1-2 OL. I like the fit of OLB Louis to this team. I’m pretty sure they will draft WR, OL and DB early enough in this draft. 4/20 UPDATE: The QB Rodgers drama continues. Maybe just retire?
LA Chargers: LA does not need as much roster work as people think. I love the fit of DT McDonald to this team. I’m higher on him than most (always dependent on person-team fit after the draft), meaning he is likely to be available. I doubt OG Ioane will be here, and if he’s not, the choices are to take an OT and convert him to OG or wait until day two for OL. Getting a 1^st round rated CB is another option. There’s been some WR love lately (Lemon or Tyson) but the majority of the news remains along the OL. LA gives out NO Intel, so I do not even try to dig up scoops (the beat writers ignore me, I’ve tried). REST OF THE DRAFT: The team has to come away with an interior OL and a viable run-stopper at the very least. After two stunningly good drafts that had the so-called analysts baffled (insert smile here), an encore could make them serious AFC title game contenders. 4/20 UPDATE: I have far more Intel as to their private meetings, far more than usual for me, and more than most know about this cycle. Other than WR Chris Bell, the other under the radar information is mostly for day three talent. I’m curious to see if LA drafts any of these guys.
Philadelphia: The Eagles and Howie Roseman love to wheel and deal during the draft. They have nine picks, which could open them up to a big 1^st round trade if they covet someone special. TE Sadiq is in play if he gets close to their draft slot, but other players may surface as well. I have to believe WR AJ Brown is off the roster at some point. Philly signed or traded for three WR’s this offseason, yet has met with six prospects, the most of any position. OT and OG meetings were conducted with a total of eight prospects, so Philly might be (finally) serious about succession planning here. TE, rightfully so, is also getting a decent look. Roseman averages about 5-6 trades per draft cycle (eight in 2024). I’d make the odds 75-25 they trade here, and it could be up or down. 4/20 UPDATE: TE Sadiq is in the building! So are two additional OL, including rising OT proctor. REST OF THE DRAFT: It’s time to fully implement a succession plan along the OL and at TE. LB/edge is the area they need to target the most. I haven’t seen much in-person interest to bringing in a LB, but I’ll keep checking for local Intel (nothing new here).
Cleveland: The Browns scare me. The best approach might be WR at pick 6, and OT at 24, but you run the risk of losing a true left tackle. For me, I have three WR’s with pure 1^st round grades (others have 5-6), so if I went OT at pick 6, I get a quality DB at this slot, with WR waiting until pick 39. Last year my Intel had them interested in TE Fannin, even though that position was not on my need board (Njoku was here). The buzz is almost 100% for a WR, and they’ve met with quite a few who would fit this draft slot. I’m okay with OT/WR with picks 6/24, with a valued DB the only other look for me. I’m guessing that the Browns make at least one trade in this round. REST OF THE DRAFT: WR/OT/DB are the places Cleveland needs to live. The only QB Cleveland has met with (to my knowledge) is Ty Simpson, which is obviously intriguing. Then again, the Browns once had six QBs on their roster, so another name could surface. As an aside, I think they need to take another stab at a day three RB. Good luck connecting the dots with Cleveland.
Chicago: The Bears lost some talent through free agency. The GM has done a nice job in recent drafts, and with four of the top 89 picks the Bears could get right back on track. My need board might be different from other analysts, but I would like to see them go DB or WR here. Others like the DL/edge, which is the clear betting favorite. Five CB’s and three safeties carry 1^st round grades on my board. I think as many as five DB’s will be available at this pick. So far, my Intel says the Bears haven’t met with a single 1^st round DB prospect. Then again, they’ve mostly met with day two and day three guys, so I suspect they are the type of team that hides their real intentions. REST OF THE DRAFT: I’d go 3 DB’s, 2 WR’s, LB, edge and OL with my eight picks. I definitely need more Intel, but thus far, both DT and center seem to be areas that Chicago will be adding from this draft class. Remember, top 30 meetings for a majority of teams do not usually translate to a direct draft hit. GM study is critical, but positional supply and demand usually wins the day.
Buffalo: The Bills have continuity at GM, and Beane has been generally sound on draft day. Everyone wants a WR, and the Bills have met with two WR’s that could be available, KC Conception and Chris Bell. Bell is off an Injury but has nice upside. My four bolded needs are 2 OL, run stopper(s), WR and a young edge rusher. With seven 1^st round OL on my board, that position is doable if they want to veer in that direction. They haven’t tipped their hand regarding OL at the present time. I like DT McDonald, but while the Bills have met with several DL, all of the prospects are past pick 26. This is another team that I need additional Intel on. I do not see a consensus position being targeted as of 4/13. REST OF THE DRAFT: Yes, we’ll likely see a WR choice sooner rather than later. Meanwhile, you need to upgrade the protection for Josh Allen, and do a better job of getting off the field defensively, as in 2025, opponents were able to control clock with the run game. The Bills are switching to a 3-4 alignment for 2026, so keep that in mind.
San Francisco: The 49ers love to build the roster from the inside out, but every season that pass D% is in, or near the bottom five. The pass rush deteriorated a year ago, so going pass rusher or cover CB would be equally important with this pick. Given that they just signed CB Jack Jones, CB may be off the table. Even with the Trent Williams drama, I’m a bit surprised OL is the clear betting favorite right now. OL is possible, but at even money? SF snuck in recent visits with OL Lomu and Proctor. WR is the dominant position of interest thus far, but that’s with limited information. I have a round two grade on WR Conception, but that might move up if SF is the team who drafts him. REST OF THE DRAFT: PLEASE do not ignore the secondary, and when/if you address it, find sticky cover guys who are not giving cushion to WRs and TEs. At the present time, the 49ers will be done with the draft during the 4^th round (four picks in that round). While the last three rounds of this draft may not be anything special, look for SF to possibly trade back a time or two, and maybe trade UP once if they see a player that they like, and supply and demand has them needing to act quickly. 4/20 UPDATE: Several pieces of Intel have come my way since 4/13. SF, despite the free agency additions, remain clearly committed to WR. Colbie Young is the 8^th WR with a top 30 visit. Loving to build from the trenches, SF has added two OL and four DL to the mix. TE Michael Trigg is another (intriguing) late addition.
Houston: The Texan’s need to protect QB Stroud. OL should be the obvious look, but it isn’t that way with many a “TV” analyst, or other print media analysts. You can get a starter in the 1^st round, with Blake Miller and Kaydn Proctor possibly available unless there’s a late run on OL. As an aside, I wouldn’t be shocked if they moved back from this draft slot. In fact, I think it’s 60-40 to happen. 4/20 UPDATE: Local sources think OL Rutledge or Miller could be the Texan’s initial selection. REST OF THE DRAFT: Fortify the OL and the DL, add much-needed LB depth, and then go best player available. Houston’s roster isn’t far from being set, so focus will be the key. As an aside, Houston likes to draft mid-tier TE’s. Local product Miles Kitselman is someone they have spoken to. 4/20 UPDATE: My Intel has versatile OL Trey Zahn as an intriguing later round look. Center Conner Lew (off injury) might be another round three or round four surprise. Max Klare is a late day two possibility as Houston shows some last minute TE interest.
KC: Will KC follow my very specific game plan? It’s obvious DB, and especially CB is now an extreme need. If KC chose OL at pick 9, then CB must be the choice here. Even with nine picks, I fear KC could move out of this round, which I don’t think would be wise. In addition to CB Delane at pick 9, I chose an edge rusher (Faulk) at this pick as their GM in the mock draft exercise. I’d have gone with Mesidor if Faulk was unavailable. I got my RT with pick 40. While the Chiefs usually do not tip their hand with the private visits, I was right about WR Worthy landing here two years ago, and even though the Chiefs are notorious for creating smokescreens, I had them looking at either OT Ersery or OT Simmons last year. As of now (4/13), I think KC looks OL or DL. The Chiefs have met with CB’s Hood and Chris Johnson, and one or both could be available here. REST OF THE DRAFT: I think KC will look to add a TE in this draft. They must fully address the losses they took in the secondary, and hopefully will address right tackle by pick 40. I spoke about edge up above (pick 9). When will Chris Jones land a running mate? WR is a popular mock for this team but please, take care of my primary needs first. 4/20 UPDATE: TE Sadiq is generating KC interest, but do they wait to see if he gets past Tampa at pick 15? Two other CB’s (Hood, Stokes) are on their radar screen. Let’s have some fun. Use an erasable pencil and plug in Hawaii OG Zhen Sotelo as an UDFA, or in the 7^th round if KC ends up with a pick late in the draft.
Miami: The Dolphins have a new GM and I’m going to be curious how he manages the entire draft process. At one point I felt that the ideal situation in my eyes is either WR Tate at 11 and a CB here, perhaps Hood, Terrell or Chris Johnson. At this point it does not look like Tate will be available at pick 11. If that is the case, I pivot to DB (Delane or Downs) for pick 11, and go WR or OL here. My next highest need is OG, but the slot value doesn’t work here. Miami has targeted quite a few players who may be available at this pick, most recently adding edge rushers Mesidor and Faulk to the list (likely requires a trade up). Three WR’s and safety McNeil-Warren are also targets. WR is the popular choice for them. While I suspect there will be somebody available at 31 that they’ve met with, I do NOT trust any Miami GM to patiently wait for this to occur. With Jack Jones recently gone, CB should be addressed during the 1^st round. CB and WR. Just do this, in any order. REST OF THE DRAFT: KEEP your seven early picks and draft two WR’s and two DB’s, with the other three picks for an interior OL, LB, and either a TE or a 3^rd DB. Miami’s top 30 visits give me hope that they understand needs at CB, WR and OL, as those have been the primary focus. What I don’t see is many visits with day three talent, so there could be a concern about how they fare in the later rounds.
New England: The Pats have fine-tuned the roster in free agency and now need to add a 2026 starter. Indiana’s star WR Cooper was “expected” to be available, but his stock has been rising. WR is my biggest need on their board, so I find the fit acceptable. IF the rumors are true about AJ Brown becoming a post-June 1^st Patriot, then OL makes sense as their primary leader in the clubhouse. DL is a distant 2^nd., but gaining. The choices other than WR for me are the best value between edge rusher and right tackle. Either possibility might exist depending on how the 1^st round plays out. With 11 picks, I wouldn’t rule out the possibility of New England trading UP on draft day. REST OF THE DRAFT: The Pats have 11 picks, and I’m okay with a couple of trade UPS, IF they hit a direct need (WR, edge, tackle) with proper value. In this draft I want two WR’s, plus a stab at a solid TE. I don’t trust the sly Vrabel to give me much Intel, but for the record, the team visits are concentrated in the right areas, although I lack a high volume of Intel as of this writing. 4/20 UPDATE: Edge rusher is gaining some ground (Jacus, Lawrence, Crawford) for early round consideration.
Seattle: Seattle will try hard to trade this pick to a team who wants to secure either a QB (Simpson, if not yet taken) or another player that has a 1^st round grade and would not be available at the top of the 2^nd round. If they stay at pick 32, then safety or right-side OL makes for the best value. For the record, safety is listed at +1200 for their 1^st pick. If they move off of pick 32, RB (+1000, but varies by site) comes into play. CB is by far the leader right now to be Seattle’s 1^st pick in this draft. The only other position receiving serious attention as of 4/13 has been RB. REST OF THE DRAFT: Seattle has just four picks in this draft, which is why I see them trading down from either 32 and during day two. It’s almost a certainty that RB will be addressed by the end of round three, and based on their top 30 visits, CB will certainly be addressed. Seattle has also addressed DT and edge with quite a few visits. Safety has not been a focus, but GM Schneider is exceptional at disguising his intentions, as we saw with Witherspoon a few drafts ago. Here’s a bit of strategy that teams can employ: You WANT to trade down a bit at the end of a day, because when refreshed, the start of the 2^nd and 4^th rounds could yield bargains due to players slipping through the cracks with the long day coming to an end (plus the short time on the clock). The “homework” round (my copyright for the 4^th round) often gives us great player value with the 1^st 7-10 picks. Seattle knows it has to replenish at RB. If that position fails, Sam Darnold will see his turnover ratio spike. My other Seattle needs are safety, center, and additional right-side OL help. The needs aren’t many. Can GM Schneider continue his recent draft day success?

Brief comments about the six teams without a current 1^st round pick.

Cincinnati (Pick 41): PRIMARY NEEDS: Edge/pass rusher, safety, CB, OL

Cincy has added pieces to their below par defense, including Dexter Lawrence, but more is necessary. The Bengals have had three straight lower rated drafts, and that has to stop. Before they traded away pick 10, I wanted them to draft edge or safety Downs, with CB Delane a solid 3^rd choice. There’s no early rhyme or reason to who Cincy has brought in for private visits. Pick 41 should yield a capable DB. The rest of the picks need to stay mostly defensive ones, except for addressing OL.

Indianapolis (Pick 47): PRIMARY NEEDS: MLB. WR, DB, OL (RT?), DE

Indy tends to visit with off-the-wall talent, and usually pays the price on the field. While I lack sufficient Intel for 2026, work needs to be done in several areas where talent has been lost. They’ve met with several WR’s, and Louisville’s Chris Bell (a target of many teams) would be a steal at 47. LB could be tricky. With CB Moore requesting a trade, that position needs some early attention (DB is a need even with Moore on the team). Will Keelan Crimmins be the new punter (insert smile here)?

Atlanta (Pick 48): PRIMARY NEEDS: WR, run-stopper, LB, CB and/or nickel

Atlanta has only five picks, so maybe THIS is the year they do not go stupid on the trade-ups. The Falcons lack a WR2 and know that, as they have met with six WR’s in top 30 visitor format. I like all three DT’s that they’ve met with, but it’s possible all three may not make it to this pick. OL isn’t on my primary need board, but that’s their 2^nd highest private visit volume. I’d go WR here unless they get lucky with a draft-dropping DT.

Green Bay (Pick 52): PRIMARY NEEDS: OL, DB, DL, RB

Green Bay seems to have lost a little ground after free agency. Picking at 52 isn’t ideal. Note that in their last six, non-COVID year drafts, the Packers have added 34 players they have brought in for private visits. OL and CB haven’t received much attention on their part, but I like the extremely late contact with CB Will Lee as a potential day two target. No one position has received special treatment. Speedy RB Mike Washington will get drafted somewhere on day two, and he’s one of three RB’s Green Bay may have interest in. I think they are serious about finding a LB or two. Several off-the-wall DB’s are on their day three list, including D’Arco Perkins-McAllister, slower safety Juwon Gaston, and Akron DB Malcolm Dewalt. Gaston has some return skills, which Green Bay is interested in. I think the position they take with pick 52 is wide open at the present time.

Jacksonville (Pick 56): PRIMARY NEEDS: OL, MLB, stud TE, DL

The Jags do NOT conduct private, top 30 meetings. With a 32-41 sack ratio, Jacksonville could attack either side of the line. I didn’t list WR, but what if Brian Thomas is traded? LB Lloyd is gone. Will they ever consider a TE upgrade? Their GM is aggressive, so trading UP from pick 52 is possible. The Jags have 11 picks, and a trio of 3^rd round picks to offer as trade bait. I hope they do not get too trade crazy. I’d also like them to stick to my need board.

Denver (Pick 62): PRIMARY NEEDS: DE, LB, IOL

The needs are not many, which is why the coach and GM felt trading for WR Waddle was the right thing to do, as they believe the 2026 rookies they sign will not see the field much. Denver clearly lost DL talent, and the need to replenish the DL is real. You can get a viable two-down DT in most drafts in the 2^nd round, including this one. Denver has met with at least seven OL, most of whom are day three ranked. They have two serviceable TE’s on the roster (Engram, Trautman), but seem dead serious about adding more, with seven TE’s in on top 30 visits. If they do not go DL early, TE looms to be their focal point. Denver does have four of the top 111 picks, and the TE’s in this draft have grades right where the Bronco’s are picking. I have isolated a trio of surprise names for late in the draft, but that’s a story for another day. As an aside, keep in mind that Sean Payton is not afraid of trading UP on draft day. I think these four picks (62 through 111) become three, with a trade up the board.