2026 NFL mock draft: Surprises in top 10 of latest first-round projection

With exactly one month until the 2026 NFL Draft begins, it's time to explore how the first round could serve up a few twists. There's little mystery at the top of the order, with the Las Vegas Raiders expected to kick things off in Pittsburgh by making Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza the first of the league's 257 picks announced over three days. And while there's been an emerging consensus for several other selections in the top 10, all it takes is one surprise move to create a significant departure from the prevailing wisdom.

Here's USA TODAY Sports ' latest NFL mock draft projection for the first round: 2026 NFL mock draft 1. Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana The last pit stop on Mendoza's march to the No. 1 pick is Indiana's pro day on April 1.

Fittingly, you'd have to be a fool to put much stock in what the Heisman Trophy winner does that day given what he demonstrated throughout the Hoosiers' national title run. But it'll at least make for some pre-draft fodder and give Raiders fans another glimpse at their future signal-caller. 2.

New York Jets – Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State Much of Darren Mougey and Aaron Glenn's free agency focus seemed to be on instituting a ground floor for the defense, with at least six new starters ushered in via veteran acquisitions. Now, it's time to add someone who can actually move the needle for this unit. Reese remains a project as a full-time pass rusher, yet he's a fully worthwhile one given the double-digit sack potential.