2026 NFL Draft Order: Post-Week 13 Projections Favor Quarterbacks and Edge Rushers
The landscape of the 2026 NFL Draft is beginning to take shape as teams navigate the final stretch of the 2025-26 season. Despite the ongoing intensity of the NFL Playoff picture, the draft order for non-playoff teams is largely solidified through Week 12, revealing a class rich with potential franchise quarterbacks, disruptive edge rushers, and a promising group of offensive tackles.
Early Draft Focus: A Premium on Elite Talent
According to projections based on reverse standings as of November 25, 2025, the Tennessee Titans currently hold the coveted first overall pick. Analysts anticipate they will use this selection to bolster their pass rush with Rueben Bain Jr., an elite edge rusher from Miami. “Bain is a Day 1 starter with the potential to be a dominant force,” one scouting report noted.
The need for quarterback play is a recurring theme among the teams at the top of the draft. The New York Jets, selecting third overall, are projected to address their long-standing quarterback question by choosing Fernando Mendoza from Indiana. Mendoza’s accuracy and poise have made him a highly sought-after prospect for teams desperate for stability at the position. Similarly, the Las Vegas Raiders, picking at number four, are expected to target Dante Moore of Oregon, whose mobility is seen as a strong fit for their offensive scheme.
Key Team Needs Drive Mock Draft Projections
Beyond quarterbacks and pass rushers, teams are focusing on addressing specific positional voids. The New York Giants, selecting second, are projected to add an explosive wide receiver in Jordyn Tyson from Arizona State, aiming to provide a true No. 1 target for their quarterback, whether it’s Daniel Jones or a future acquisition. The Cleveland Browns, at pick six, are expected to prioritize protecting Deshaun Watson with Spencer Fano, a powerful offensive tackle from Utah.
Here’s a look at the projected first-round draft order for the top 18 non-playoff teams:
- 1. Tennessee Titans: Rueben Bain Jr. (EDGE, Miami)
- 2. New York Giants: Jordyn Tyson (WR, Arizona State)
- 3. New York Jets: Fernando Mendoza (QB, Indiana)
- 4. Las Vegas Raiders: Dante Moore (QB, Oregon)
- 5. New Orleans Saints: Carnell Tate (WR, Ohio State)
- 6. Cleveland Browns: Spencer Fano (OT, Utah)
- 7. Washington Commanders: T.J. Parker (EDGE, Clemson)
- 8. Arizona Cardinals: Francis Mauigoa (OT, Miami)
- 9. Cincinnati Bengals: Jermod McCoy (CB, Tennessee)
- 10. Los Angeles Rams (from ATL): Ty Simpson (QB, Alabama)
- 11. Miami Dolphins: Mansoor Delane (CB, LSU)
- 12. Minnesota Vikings: Avieon Terrell (CB, Clemson)
- 13. Dallas Cowboys: Keldric Faulk (EDGE, Auburn)
- 14. Carolina Panthers: Parker Brailsford (IOL, Alabama)
- 15. Pittsburgh Steelers: LaNorris Sellers (QB, South Carolina)
- 16. Kansas City Chiefs: Kenyon Sadiq (TE, Oregon)
- 17. Houston Texans: Logan Jones (IOL, Iowa)
- 18. Detroit Lions: David Bailey (EDGE, Texas Tech)
Draft Date and Location Confirmed
Mark your calendars, NFL fans. The 2026 NFL Draft will be held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at Acrisure Stadium. The draft schedule is as follows:
- Round 1: Thursday, April 23, 2026
- Rounds 2–3: Friday, April 24
- Rounds 4–7: Saturday, April 25
The picks from 19-32 will be determined following the conclusion of the 2025-26 NFL Playoffs. For those eager to follow the remaining regular season schedule, as well as the playoff bracket and Super Bowl plans, additional resources are available. Furthermore, preparations are already underway for the 2026-27 NFL schedules.
As the season progresses, these projections will undoubtedly evolve, but the current outlook suggests a dynamic and potentially transformative draft class for teams looking to rebuild or contend in the years to come.
