2026 NFL Draft: Defense and Elite Backs Dominate the Early First Round

The 2026 NFL Draft kicked off in Pittsburgh with the Las Vegas Raiders selecting Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza as the first overall pick, following his historic national championship run.

The early first round focused heavily on high-impact talent, with the New York Jets taking edge rusher David Bailey at number two and the Arizona Cardinals drafting Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love third overall. Other notable early selections included Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate going to the Titans and linebacker Arvell Reese heading to the Giants.

This year's draft order, determined by the previous season's standings and key trades, features several teams with multiple first-round assets, such as the Jets and Giants, as they look to address critical roster needs in a class defined by elite defensive prospects and emerging offensive playmakers.