Mel Kiper Jr. has released his predictions for the first two rounds of the 2026 NFL draft, which starts April 23 in Pittsburgh. This mock draft includes two full rounds and considers team needs, evaluations, and conversations with NFL executives, coaches, and scouts.
Kiper’s mock draft includes two projected in-draft trades, one of which occurs in the top 10. He also notes the presence of surprise late risers in both rounds.
Mendoza to the Raiders at No. 1
Kiper predicts the Las Vegas Raiders will draft Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. Kiper believes Mendoza is accurate, can run when needed, and can make any NFL-level throw. He notes the Raiders have been in the bottom five in QBR over the past five seasons with a 44.8 rating.
Jets Expected to Focus on Production
According to Kiper, the New York Jets are likely to prioritise immediate production over potential. Kiper suggests the Jets will choose between Bailey and Arvell Reese. The Jets were 31st in sacks last season with 26, and 27th in pressure rate at 28.8%.
Kiper projects the Jets will draft Bailey, who led the FBS in pressure rate (20.2%) and tied for the lead in sacks (14.5) last season. He believes Bailey would have an immediate impact for the Jets.
Reese Potentially to the Cardinals
Kiper predicts that new coach Mike LaFleur will want foundational defensive players, and the Cardinals could draft Arvell Reese. Reese has experience at both off-ball linebacker and off the edge. Kiper notes his future is probably rushing the passer, and he had 6.5 sacks last season.
The Cardinals were in the bottom five in pressure rate (28.5%) last season. Kiper believes they need someone like Reese opposite Josh Sweat in a division featuring quarterbacks Matthew Stafford, Sam Darnold and Brock Purdy.
Trades and Further Analysis
Kiper has projected two in-draft trades. The first of which is in the top 10.
- The draft kicks off April 23 in Pittsburgh with 32 first-round picks.
- Rounds 2-3 take place on April 24.
- Rounds 4-7 will be held on April 25.
Kiper’s final Big Board rankings, featuring the top-150 players, will be released next week.