Preseason NFL Mock Draft 2026: Six Quarterbacks and Potential Trades

The anticipation for the 2026 NFL Draft is building as the college football season prepares to kick off. With the 2025 season starting this weekend, analysts are already looking at potential first-round picks, including a remarkable six quarterbacks projected to be selected. This early mock draft, crafted by ESPN’s analyst Yates, outlines the expected dynamics ahead of the draft scheduled for April 23, 2026.

Starting with the Cleveland Browns, who currently hold the top pick, the draft order was established using ESPN’s Football Power Index. This tool uses numerous simulations to predict team performance throughout the season. It is important to note that only 30 teams will have a first-round pick, as both the Jacksonville Jaguars and Atlanta Falcons traded away their selections during the 2025 draft.

Projected Picks and Trade Scenarios

Yates anticipates significant movement at the top of the draft. The Cleveland Browns are projected to select Arch Manning, the talented quarterback from Texas. Despite his grandfather Archie Manning stating that Arch would remain in college for at least another season, his eligibility for the draft could prompt a change if he excels this year. Manning’s strong build and dual-threat capabilities make him a compelling candidate for the first overall pick.

The New York Jets are expected to make a strategic move, trading up from the fourth to the second pick, potentially selecting LaNorris Sellers, a quarterback from South Carolina. If the Jets end up with a bottom-five record, they may look to find a franchise quarterback, especially if current starter Justin Fields does not perform as expected.

The New Orleans Saints are predicted to trade up to the third pick from Tennessee, aiming to secure Cade Klubnik from Clemson. This could mark the first time since 1971 that the Saints select a quarterback in the first round. Klubnik, after a breakout season with 43 total touchdowns, offers the Saints a much-needed long-term solution at quarterback.

Analysis of Top Prospects

Beyond the quarterback frenzy, several non-quarterback players are expected to dominate the first round. The New York Giants, after trading their pick to the Jets, could still land defensive standout Peter Woods from Clemson, who is noted for his disruptive play. Meanwhile, the Tennessee Titans might select Caleb Downs, a safety from Ohio State, a prospect that could significantly enhance their struggling defense.

Other key prospects include Keldric Faulk, an edge rusher from Auburn, and Spencer Fano, an offensive tackle from Utah, both of whom are expected to draw attention from teams looking to bolster their offensive and defensive lines. With a robust class of players coming out of college football, the 2026 NFL Draft promises to be an eventful one, characterized by trades and strategic maneuvers by franchises.

As the season unfolds, the landscape for the draft will continue to shift, with performance on the field directly influencing team strategies. Yates emphasizes that much can change in the next eight months, but for now, the excitement surrounding the upcoming draft is palpable and will only grow as teams prepare for the future.