NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 22, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

NFL Draft Projections & Insider Intel

As the league heads into the draft, predictions from analysts suggest major movement and specific positional targets for several teams. Peter Schrager’s final mock incorporates four significant trade scenarios, speculating on potential top-five selections for prospects like Jeremiyah Love and Sonny Styles, while Matt Miller’s projection, informed by Jeremy Fowler’s latest intel, details his anticipated 32 first-round picks. Furthermore, team reporters offered their own localized predictions, raising questions about whether quarterback Fernando Mendoza is the consensus top choice, a figure whose unique blend of curiosity and command has drawn significant attention ahead of Thursday.

The focus on the top of the board extends to teams known for aggressive maneuvering, as the Super Bowl champion Seahawks publicly confirmed their desire to trade down, even if it means dealing within the division, while the Rams might serve as a wild card in the early selection process. Meanwhile, specific team needs are driving late-stage buzz; the New York Jets are expected to target an offensive player with their second first-round pick at No. 16, assuming they address the edge rusher position first, though the GM later cautioned against overanalyzing a nixed predraft visit with defensive end David Bailey.

Player Health & Offseason Updates

Several key players are making positive progress through their recovery timelines as offseason programs commence. Colts quarterback Daniel Jones, more than four months removed from a ruptured Achilles tendon, has successfully resumed dropping back and throwing again, although teammate Alec Pierce underwent ankle surgery and will miss initial workout sessions. In San Francisco, linebacker Fred Warner is feeling great with no restrictions for the start of team activities following the season-ending ankle injury he sustained last October, while Rams receiver Puka Nacua will be a full participant in the offseason program after spending time in rehab, according to Coach Sean McVay. On the defensive side, Ravens tackle Nnamdi Madubuike underwent neck surgery last week, but his doctors remain optimistic he will resume playing this season.

A different kind of medical clearance is anticipated for one of the draft's top defensive linemen; Florida’s Caleb Banks, projected as a premium interior presence, is reportedly expected to receive full clearance for football activities in early June following offseason foot surgery. Elsewhere, the league faces emerging administrative risks, as former NFL executives suggest it is "only a matter of time" before someone attempts to parlay insider draft information into betting activity, presenting a new challenge for league compliance.

Veteran Movements & Team Philosophies

In a week marked by financial commitments and franchise planning, the Dallas Cowboys made it clear they will not engage in long-term contract talks with George Pickens, intending instead for him to play the upcoming season under the franchise tag. Contrasting that approach, the San Francisco 49ers settled significant contract drama by agreeing to a lucrative two-year, $50 million extension with veteran left tackle Trent Williams. Financial benchmarks continue to shift across the league, evidenced by the Cowboys securing Brandon Aubrey to a deal that establishes him as the NFL's highest-paid kicker in history.

Quarterback movement saw Justin Fields express that one of his motivations for joining the Chiefs was the opportunity to learn directly from Patrick Mahomes, while free agent Jimmy Garoppolo is actively considering retirement as of Monday. In Minnesota, wide receiver Justin Jefferson publicly voiced his anticipation for Kyler Murray's arrival, simultaneously making a blunt assessment regarding rookie J.J. McCarthy's standing within the new quarterback room after Murray was acquired. Furthermore, in a gesture of support, Saints Offensive Coordinator Doug Nussmeier received permission to spend the draft evening with his son Garrett, treating the event as a "once in a lifetime opportunity."

Coaching Changes & Offseason Vibe

The post-season coaching carousel continues to spin, with former Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin accepting a new role as a studio analyst for NBC’s "Football Night in America," according to sources confirming his television move. Former Titans coach Mike Vrabel also addressed recent off-field scrutiny, stating that Patriots fans will receive "the best version of me " following the publication of controversial photos that became a media issue. Meanwhile, players are settling into new team environments; Shedeur Sanders mentioned a distinct "new vibe" under the Browns' first-year head coach Todd Monken and his revamped staff. Attention also turned briefly to the top prospect, as Caleb Williams expressed eagerness to build upon his standout collegiate year after enjoying downtime, including attending Coachella.

The final preparations for the draft included some unique flavor, as rapper Drake seemed to troll Caleb Williams by posing with ice blocks while wearing Packers gear during his recent "Iceman" album rollout. For teams with multiple selections remaining, like the Raiders, breakdowns are underway detailing which positional needs they might address with their remaining nine picks after their initial selection. Finally, while much focus remains on the immediate draft class, analysts are already scouting the future, having identified a specific prospect they believe represents the 2026 NFL draft's brightest diamond in the rough.