Top Overall 2026 NFL Draft Target for All 32 Teams

All 32 teams are beginning to hone in on their preferred 2026 NFL Draft targets.

Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Sonny Styles (0) celebrates after intercepting a pass in the first half at Camp Randall Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 in Madison, Wisconsin. / Samantha Madar/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The NFL Combine is officially in our rearview mirror. So are the college all-star circuit games. Our top 100 prospect rankings have received a timely update as a result. In-person visits, medical rechecks, and the Pro Day circuit are the remaining notable events in the 2026 NFL Draft process.

NFL teams are beginning to finalize their pre-draft boards and pinpoint their preferred first-round targets. This exercise is designed to identify who that prospect might be for all 32 teams. It's different from a mock draft, which we released after the NFL Combine.

We attempted to avoid repeating players, but there's a few instances where the same prospect fits two scenarios. It's intended to marry realism with dreamlike outcomes, or else Fernando Mendoza would be mentioned about 15 times (spoiler: he's not).

2026 NFL Draft: Top Target For All 32 Teams

Arizona Cardinals: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami

Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa (61) against the Indiana Hoosiers during the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals are essentially a blank slate and they should feel comfortable taking the best prospect available regardless of position. They've already parted ways with Kyler Murray this offseason, but there isn't a quarterback worth drafting at No. 3. Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa would be plug-and-play for new head coach Mike LaFleur with a safe floor.

Atlanta Falcons: Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State

Oct 5, 2024; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego State Aztecs cornerback Chris Johnson (1) warms up against the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors before the game at Snapdragon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Abe Arredondo-Imagn Images / Abe Arredondo-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Falcons do not own a first-round selection as a result of last year's blockbuster trade for James Pearce Jr. Cornerback is arguably the Falcons' top offseason need. San Diego State's Chris Johnson is the best they could realistically hope for at No. 48 overall. Johnson is an athletic prospect with good size and ball skills.

Baltimore Ravens: Malachi Fields, WR, Notre Dame

Notre Dame wide receiver Malachi Fields (0) catches a pass during the first half of a NCAA football game against Navy at Notre Dame Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, in South Bend. / MICHAEL CLUBB/SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Baltimore Ravens executed a blockbuster for Maxx Crosby. It leaves them without a first-round pick, meaning their top target will have to be a second-round player. With Crosby's arrival addressing the need at EDGE, attention shifts to an offense primed to lose passing-game production in Isaiah Likely and DeAndre Hopkins. Malachi Fields is a big-time weapon who could dominate vertically and on the boundary for Lamar Jackson.

Buffalo Bills: CJ Allen, LB, Georgia

Feb 25, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Georgia linebacker CJ Allen (LB01) speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Thursday's trade for wide receiver DJ Moore alters the Buffalo Bills' approach in the draft. A wideout is no longer required in the first round. Linebacker was another sore spot throughout 2025. Georgia's CJ Allen is a rangy defender with sideline to sideline ability. New defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard would appreciate his physical approach.

Carolina Panthers: Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State

Ohio State Buckeyes defensive tackle Kayden McDonald (98) warms up prior to the Big Ten Conference championship game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Dec. 6, 2025. / Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Ohio State's Kayden McDonald possesses a better chance to be the first defensive tackle drafted than most realize. McDonald is an elite run stopper and would be a nice compliment to Derrick Brown for the Carolina Panthers. This defense allowed more than 120 rushing yards per game last season. McDonald would address that.

Chicago Bears: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon

Oregon defensive back Dillon Thieneman carries the ball as the Oregon Ducks practice on Jan. 5, 2025, at the Moshofsky Center in Eugene, Oregon, ahead of the Peach Bowl. / Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Chicago Bears will almost certainly invest their first-round selection at safety or along the defensive front. Both starting safeties Jaquan Brisker and Kevin Byard are currently scheduled for free agency after combining for more than 2,000 defensive snaps a year ago. Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman crushed the NFL Combine, elevating himself into the top-32 conversation. Thieneman would be an instant starter. He may not last this long.

Cincinnati Bengals: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Sonny Styles established himself as a top-five overall prospect in the class after his historic performance at the NFL Combine. The Buckeyes standout leaped a breathtaking 43.5 inch vertical and an 11-foot-2 broad, the most impressive results we've seen from a linebacker in more than two decades. A defensive lineman is often mocked to the Cincinnati Bengals at No. 10 overall, but Styles might be the preferred choice if he lasts that long. Keeping him in-state should appeal to the Bengals, who need impactful front-seven defenders regardless of position. Rueben Bain Jr., Peter Woods, or David Bailey would be alternatives.

Cleveland Browns: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Carnell Tate (17) celebrates a touchdown Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, during the Big Ten football championship against the Indiana Hoosiers at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. / Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Cleveland Browns need more talent at wide receiver and across the offensive line. Whether at No. 6 or 24 overall, they should target Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate. Tate is an excellent route runner who creates separation and finishes with consistent hands. The Buckeyes standout possesses good size and athleticism at the position, with a vertical skill set that generates explosive plays. Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling is also gaining steam here.

Dallas Cowboys: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Caleb Downs (2) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

There’s an allegation out there that indicates Ohio State safety Caleb Downs was flagged at the NFL Combine for a medical issue. The Dallas Cowboys would be thrilled if he remained available at No. 12 overall, and it feels more possible than it did before the combine. Downs would command the back end of a secondary that needs a transformation. Alternatives here would include one of the falling pass rushers, Dillon Thieneman, or Mansoor Delane.

Denver Broncos: Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama

Dec 19, 2025; Norman, OK, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor (74) against the Oklahoma Sooners during the CFP National Playoff First Round at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Many expect the Denver Broncos to select a tight end or linebacker at No. 31, but we expect Sean Payton to focus on his offensive line. Starting left tackle Garett Bolles is entering his age 34 season. Alabama's Kadyn Proctor could be Payton's premier target. Proctor, an overwhelming blocker from a size and power perspective, could be groomed behind Bolles while working on his conditioning and discipline.

Detroit Lions: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah

Feb 28, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Utah offensive lineman Spencer Fano (OL22) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images / Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

Offensive tackle Taylor Decker announced he has requested to be released. It represents a blow to the Detroit Lions, who were not prepared for such a sudden departure. Spencer Fano is incredibly athletic in pass protection and the Lions should target him as a plug-and-play starter. He’s also flexible enough to play across the interior, but they'd probably need him at tackle given the Decker news.

Green Bay Packers: Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State

Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; San Diego State defensive back Chris Johnson (DB17) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images / Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

The Green Bay Packers do not possess a first-round selection as a result of the Micah Parsons trade. Cornerback is a glaring hole. San Diego State's Chris Johnson represents a perfect fit from a size, scheme, and athleticism perspective. The problem? Johnson is also listed for the Falcons here, who are slated to pick at No. 48, four overalls before the Packers (No. 52).

Houston Texans: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida

Jul 16, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Florida State Gators defensive lineman Caleb Banks answers questions from the media during the SEC Media Days at Omni Atlanta Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images / Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images

DeMeco Ryans' defense would benefit from getting bigger and more athletic at defensive tackle. Adding Caleb Banks to the Houston Texans would make Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. even more impactful on the edges. Banks is an explosive interior defender with strength and first-step quickness. He's a little inconsistent, but Ryans would be the ideal coach to maximize his untapped potential. It's also noticeable when you’re 6-foot-6 and 327 pounds with 35 inch arms and leap a jaw-dropping 32 inch vertical.

Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas

Jan 10, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Carnell Tate (17) and Texas Longhorns linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. (0) and linebacker Liona Lefau (18) in action during the game between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard loves linebackers with size, length, and speed. Anthony Hill Jr. checked those boxes at the NFL Combine, measuring in at 6-foot-2 and 238 pounds before running a stellar 4.51, third-fastest at linebacker. The Colts desperately require upgrades behind the defensive line, and Hill should be a premier target with the 47th selection.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati

Oct 11, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats linebacker Jake Golday (11) attempts to tackle UCF Knights quarterback Cam Fancher (14) in the second half at Nippert Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images / Aaron Doster-Imagn Images

The Jacksonville Jaguars appear content to lose linebacker Devin Lloyd to free agency. A replacement should arrive via the draft. Cincinnati's Jake Golday would be an excellent selection at 56th overall, if he's still on the board. A former pass rusher, Golday has made a quick transition to linebacker, recording 104 tackles in 2025. He tested well at the NFL Combine, leaping the third-best broad jump (10-foot-5).

Kansas City Chiefs: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

Dec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) looks on before the game against the James Madison Dukes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images / Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq arguably had the most impressive performance at the NFL Combine of any prospect in attendance. The highly-athletic Ducks standout ran the 40-yard dash in a blazing 4.39 seconds despite weighing 250 pounds. With Travis Kelce in annual decline and nearing retirement, the Kansas City Chiefs should be infatuated with Sadiq as a prospect.

Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) reacts after the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Las Vegas Raiders are fortunate to own the No. 1 overall selection in a one-quarterback draft. General manager John Spytek and all parties involved sound legitimately excited for Fernando Mendoza to be their franchise quarterback. Pairing Mendoza with new head coach Klint Kubiak should help lead the Raiders in an exciting direction.

Los Angeles Chargers: Vega Ioane, IOL, Penn State

Dec 31, 2024; Glendale, AZ, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane (71) against the Boise State Broncos during the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Chargers' offensive line committed treason against quarterback Justin Herbert during the 2025 season. New coordinator Mike McDaniel built his offensive line in Miami and should be allowed an opportunity to help retool this unit as well. Penn State guard Vega Ioane is a top-15 overall prospect in this class, and he should be the Chargers' No. 1 target with the 22nd pick, though we’re not convinced he’ll make it there.

Los Angeles Rams: Makai Lemon, WR, USC

Nov 29, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon (6) celebrates after catching a 32-yard touchdown pass against the UCLA Bruins in the second half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay can't help himself when it comes to wide receivers. It's time to plan for the future with the aging Davante Adams entering a contract year. Makai Lemon is arguably the easiest evaluation in this entire wide receiver class. Lemon possesses elite short-area quickness and he's the most savvy route runner available this year. The Rams should be all-in on his fit in McVay's offense.

Miami Dolphins: Spencer Fano, Francis Mauigoa, Vega Ioane, OL, Utah/Miami/Penn State

Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa (61) against the Indiana Hoosiers during the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Miami Dolphins are essentially a blank slate with Jon-Eric Sullivan and Jeff Hafley taking over the team. Sullivan and Hafley come from Green Bay, where the Packers routinely invested premium resources in their offensive line. This is a multi-year rebuild in Miami and it should start by prioritizing the offensive line. If one of Mauigoa, Fano, or Ioane remain available, the Dolphins should take a plug-and-play prospect.

Minnesota Vikings: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU

Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; LSU defensive back Mansoor Delane (DB06) speaks to media members during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images / Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Vikings are going to use free agency or the veteran trade market to add competition at quarterback. Their NFL Draft strategy should heavily focus on defense. LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane is physical and athletic, making him a natural fit for what Brian Flores wants to do defensively.

New England Patriots: Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor (3) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The New England Patriots are slated to pick at No. 31 overall. Miami EDGE Akheem Mesidor embodies everything Mike Vrabel appreciates at the position. Mesidor is physical and violent, and he's also versatile enough to play multiple positions across the defensive front. He'd fit Zak Kuhr's defense nicely.

New Orleans Saints: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame

Nov 22, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love (4) celebrates scoring against the Syracuse Orange during the first half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images / Michael Caterina-Imagn Images

The New Orleans Saints are legitimately excited about their head coaching pairing of Kellen Moore and Tyler Shough moving forward, rightfully so. Drafting Jeremiyah Love at No. 8 would elevate Moore's offense to new levels. Love is the consensus best overall prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, and there's some in league circles who believe the Cardinals or Titans will select him in the top four.

New York Giants: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Sonny Styles (0) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Styles makes his second appearance. He's an elite prospect who will be in incredibly high demand. The New York Giants could close in on him at No. 5 overall, especially after releasing Bobby Okereke. Styles would help transform a Giants defense that lacked identity and toughness throughout a disappointing 2025 campaign in which the talent failed to meet expectations.

New York Jets: Arvell Reese, LB/EDGE, Ohio State

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The New York Jets will select the first non-quarterback at No. 2 overall. General manager Darren Mougey’s defense is essentially starting from scratch after trading Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner and Quinnen Williams. Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese was outstanding at the NFL Combine, confirming his status as a top-five player in this class. Whether the Jets play Reese at linebacker or at EDGE, he’ll be an incredibly impactful front-seven defender.

Philadelphia Eagles: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah

Mar 1, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Utah offensive lineman Caleb Lomu (OL33) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu was elite at the NFL Combine. He ran the 40-under dash in under five seconds and leaped a 9-foot-5 broad jump. Lane Johnson is returning to the Philadelphia Eagles for one final campaign, and drafting Lomu would provide the Eagles with an in-house succession plan.

Pittsburgh Steelers: KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M

Oct 11, 2025; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver KC Concepcion (7) takes a moment prior to the game against the Florida Gators at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images / Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers need weapons opposite DK Metcalf. Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion would be the perfect complement. Concepcion thrives in the short to intermediate areas and also generates explosives with dynamic run-after-catch ability.  Additionally, whether Aaron Rodgers retires or not, this could be the prime landing spot for Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson.

San Francisco 49ers: Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana

Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) against the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The San Francisco 49ers are about to lose Jauan Jennings to free agency. Brandon Aiyuk and the team are also going through a public and messy breakup. Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr. has established himself as a first-round pick throughout the process. Cooper is a physical receiver with a thick, dense lower half. He runs through tackle attempts and can play multiple receiver positions in Kyle Shanahan's offense.

Seattle Seahawks: Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson

Clemson Tigers cornerback Avieon Terrell (8) reacts to a pass interference call Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, during the NCAA football game against the Duke Blue Devils at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, South Carolina. / Alex Martin/Greenville News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Seattle Seahawks appear primed to lose cornerbacks Riq Woolen and Josh Jobe to free agency. Their 32nd overall selection should be used on a replacement. They will have multiple options here, but Clemson's Avieon Terrell should top that list. Terrell is an athletic cornerback with smooth footwork and he never panics in coverage.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn

Auburn Tigers defensive end Keldric Faulk (15) blitzes as Auburn Tigers take on Ball State Cardinals at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala. on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025. Auburn Tigers defeated Ball State Cardinals 42-3. / Jake Crandall/ Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are preparing to lose pass rushers Haason Reddick and Logan Hall to free agency. Finding replacements in this draft should be a top priority for Todd Bowles and Jason Licht. Auburn's Keldric Faulk is a high-floor prospect who is an excellent run defender. He's still developing as a pass rusher, but Bowles feels like the right coach to maximize his length (34 ⅜” arms) and size (6-6, 276).

Tennessee Titans: David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech

Oct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) reacts as he walks off the field following the game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The expectation is that the Tennessee Titans will choose between whoever is left of the Reese, Reuben Bain Jr. and David Bailey group of defenders. New head coach Robert Saleh prefers athleticism and first-step explosion when aligning a pass rusher in his wide-nine alignment. Bailey fits that profile best after running a 4.50 at the NFL Combine, the fastest time of any traditional pass rusher. We’ll see if acquiring Jermaine Johnson II changes things.

Washington Commanders: Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami

Jan 8, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. (4) against the Mississippi Rebels during the 2026 Fiesta Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Washington Commanders are retooling their defense this offseason after failing to meet expectations a year ago. Rueben Bain Jr. still projects as a top-10 selection, but his decision to skip testing drills at the NFL Combine leads to more questions than answers. Bain overcomes historical arm length deficiencies by generating power, and the Commanders should shortlist him at No. 7 overall if he's still available.