The 2026 NFL draft is almost here. According to one analyst, things are going to get wild.
With the draft approximately 36 hours away, here’s a look at what to expect.
Draft Day Predictions
One analyst believes this year is particularly wide open. He takes pride in being accurate, but admits nobody has a firm grasp on what will happen on Thursday. Surprises are expected.
You can catch the analyst on “The Pat McAfee Show Draft Spectacular” on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN+.
A Draft Unlike Others
One NFL general manager suggested that positional value can be thrown out the window this year. The best players in the class include a running back, an off-ball linebacker and a safety. There aren’t a ton of elite offensive tackles, edge rushers, corners and receivers, and the only top-tier quarterback is a lock to go No. 1.
That leaves chaos in the top 10 and beyond.
Potential First Round Picks
The analyst has been projecting David Bailey to the Jets for the past month. He has no further intel telling him any different. New York needs his instant production (14.5 sacks last season) for its lackluster pass rush.
Regarding the Cardinals’ potential pick, the analyst believes this could be a trade-down spot. Teams like the Chiefs and Saints could have interest in getting into position to take Arvell Reese. However, the Cardinals could just take Love.
If Reese is available when it is the Titans’ turn to pick, it would be hard for them to pass on him, considering their need at edge rusher. However, it’d also be hard for coach Robert Saleh to leave Styles on the board.
It is worth remembering that these things happen. Edge rusher is not one of the Giants’ holes, but the roster needs good football players.
Final Thoughts
The analyst will be on “The Pat McAfee Show Draft Spectacular” on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN+ to see how it all goes down.