The Las Vegas Raiders hold the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL draft after finishing 3-14. The New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals round out the top three. The first 24 slots are locked, with the remaining order determined by the ongoing playoffs. This marks the first time Pittsburgh will host the draft, scheduled for late April.

With quarterback as the league's most critical position, the Raiders' need is glaring. They haven't drafted a first-round signal-caller since JaMarcus Russell in 2007. Geno Smith's 17 interceptions in 2025 accelerated this search. The Jets and Cardinals also figure to be in the QB market, creating a potential bidding war for the top prospects.

Several teams won't pick in the first round after trading away selections. The Falcons, Packers, Jaguars, and Colts have already dealt their picks to the Rams, Cowboys, Jets, and Browns, respectively. As the playoffs progress, eliminated teams' draft positions will solidify, shaping team strategies for a pivotal offseason.