2026 NFL Mock Draft
Last Updated: November 26, 2025
Lou Pickney (2021-2025: tied for the third-highest score from The Huddle Report)
NFL Draft analyst since 2003
NOTE: Several top draft-eligible QB prospects are excluded from consideration for this mock as they appear unlikely to leave college after this season.
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The projected draft order is based on Tankathon as of this writing. |
2026 NFL Mock Draft
Bain is an elite pass-rusher who is also great against the run. Injury undermined his 2024 season, but Bain is playing tremendously well right now for the Hurricanes.
Fano plays right tackle, is remarkably good at run-blocking, and might end up being the first offensive lineman drafted in 2026 should he opt to leave for the NFL after the season.
Simpson is having a tremendous season for the Crimson Tide: 22 TD passes, only two interceptions, and a 66.9% completion rate.
Mendoza is absolutely tearing it up in his first year with the unbeaten Hoosiers, throwing for 30 touchdowns with a 73% completion rate.
After inexplicably trying to turn Woods into an EDGE rusher last year, Clemson course-corrected and now Woods is back full-time at defensive tackle.
Tyson had a breakout 2024 season (1,101 yards and 10 TDs) and hasn't let up thus far in the 2025 campaign.
Reese is a unique prospect, a 6'4" linebacker with exceptional pass-rush skill to go with the capacity to effectively drop into coverage like a defensive back.
I wrote at length about the challenge for Downs as a safety to end up as a top ten selection. But special talent earns special consideration, and evaluators are very high on Downs.
Mauigoa has been a mainstay at right tackle for the Hurricanes since 2023. If he ends up with Arizona, Mauigoa could potentially replace Cards OT Jonah Williams for 2026.
McCoy tore the ACL in his left knee this past January. When healthy, McCoy is an elite cover corner, though he hasn't played yet this season.
Delane has been a standout performer at corner in his first season in Baton Rouge.
Love had a spectacular 2024 season, notably scoring a rushing touchdown in 13 consecutive games, and he has built on that with a great 2025 for the Fighting Irish. Love is exceptionally fast.
While perhaps not as well-rounded as other top EDGE prospects, there's no questioning Bailey's tremendous pass-rush ability.
With great size (6'5" 285) and athleticism, Faulk had a stellar sophomore season in 2024, including recording 11 tackles for loss. And he hasn't let up thus far in 2025.
Read this column: What If Oregon Keeps Them All?
After playing a supporting role over his first two seasons, Sadiq was put in position to shine for the Ducks in 2025 and thus far has lived up to lofty expectations.
Tate has been a steady performer for the Buckeyes, a reliable receiver with good size, consistent output, and strong field awareness. Elite blocker. Lacks sprinter speed but has great quickness, and Tate's body of work in Columbus speaks for itself.
It's not just that Proctor is 6'7" 369 pounds, it's that he's also exceptionally strong and athletic.
Terrell is a tremendous playmaker with outstanding speed. The only serious question with Terrell is how his 180-pound frame will handle the grind of the NFL.
An exceptionally good run defender, Allen is an explosive player with superb tackling ability.
As a true sophomore, Uiagalelei led the Big Ten last year with ten sacks. Great motor. Technically sound.
At 6'2" 220, Bell has considerable size to match his outstanding speed.
Lomu plays left tackle and has been outstanding at pass blocking for the Utes.
At 6'4" 210, Boston has a great frame and is quite adept at making contested catches, in part due to his strong hands and body control.
With injury keeping Jermod McCoy out of action for the Vols this season, Hood has stood out as the top corner in Knoxville.
Overton is a versatile player that Alabama utilizes in the bandit position, lining up in various spots on the defensive line. Rep for having a great work ethic.
26. Chicago Bears
T.J. Parker, DE, Clemson
(Has NCAA eligibility for 2026)
Parker had a monster 2023 freshman season and managed to improve on those numbers with an even better 2024.
A former safety converted to linebacker, Styles is exceptionally athletic and could potentially fit multiple roles in the NFL.
A strong route-runner with great hands and tremendous instincts, Bernard is gaining attention as a potential 2026 first-round selection.
With a tremendously quick first-step and a great motor, Howell is an exceptional pass rusher.
Lemon is having a monster 2025 season for the Trojans: 71 receptions for 1,090 receiving yards and eight TDs to go with three rushing touchdowns.
Hill is building on a 2024 season where he recorded 113 tackles, including eight sacks, to go with four forced fumbles.
Opinions vary considerably on Brazzell, but he's having a great 2025 season for the Vols and the buzz for him is growing.
2026 NFL Draft
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 23-25, 2026. The event is expected to utilize North Shore and Point State Park in Pittsburgh, as well as Acrisure Stadium.
MORE:
2026 NFL Draft Prospects
Lou's Latest NFL Draft Insight
2026 NFL Mock Draft Links | NFL Team Pages
Draft King archive (includes 2002 unfinished mock)
LouPickney.com
NashvilleLou.com
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