Mel Kiper Jr. released his first full‑two‑round mock for the 2026 NFL Draft, which begins April 23 in Pittsburgh. He nails the No. 1 slot to Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, a poise‑filled passer with mobility. Kiper’s board then sees New York Jets grabbing Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey at No. 2, followed by Arizona’s Arvell Reese at No. 3.

Two in‑draft trades pepper Kiper’s outlook, the first involving the Dallas Cowboys and Cleveland Browns. Kiper envisions Dallas sending picks 12 and 20 to Cleveland for picks 6 and 39, allowing the Cowboys to select Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles at No. 6. The move would give Cleveland three first‑rounders, reshaping both teams’ draft strategies. It also forces rival franchises to adjust their own selections.

Later in the first round, Washington eyes Ohio State wideout Carnell Tate at No. 7, valuing his 17.2‑yard average and reliable hands to bolster a passing attack already anchored by Terry McLaurin. Kiper also slots Miami DE Rueben Bain Jr. at No. 8 for New Orleans, addressing the Saints’ need for edge pressure. The mock underscores how quickly teams must pivot as elite talent disappears.