5 Key Stories: 4/26/26 – 5/3/26
With the draft in the books, teams around the NFL have turned their attention to spring practices. Plenty of roster and front office movement has already taken place, with more still to come. In case you missed any of the top stories from this past weekend, here is a quick recap:
- Texans, Al-Shaair Reach Extension Agreement: Not long after the Texans worked out a market-setting extension with edge rusher Will Anderson Jr., they secured a long-term deal with linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair. The latter agreed to a three-year deal with a base value of $54MM. Al-Shaair landed $34.2MM in new guarantees, so in terms of average annual value and locked-in compensation, he now ranks third among inside linebackers. The 2025 Pro Bowler has been a starter during his two Houston seasons to date, filling the statsheet during that time. Al-Shaair will be expected to remain a key figure on the Texans’ elite defense for the foreseeable future.
- Campbell Reunites With Ravens: Calais Campbell has elected to play a 19th NFL season, and he will do so on a familiar team. A deal with the Ravens has been worked out, meaning Campbell will return to Baltimore after playing there from 2020-22. A coaching change has taken place since then, but a notable workload would come as little surprise upon return from the 2010s All-Decade Team member. Campbell has remained a starter deep into his storied career, and he could play a key role on the Ravens’ defensive interior. Even if Nnamdi Madubuike returns to full health in 2026, improved play along the D-line will be key for Baltimore. Campbell should figure heavily in the team’s efforts to rebound in that regard.
- Steelers’ Rodgers Uncertainty Remains: Once again, the Steelers find themselves uncertain of their starting quarterback situation with Aaron Rodgers yet to sign. A deal allowing the future Hall of Famer to play a second Pittsburgh campaign remains the expectation, but the team has taken the rare route of applying the UFA tender in this case. The Steelers will be eligible for draft compensation in the unlikely event Rodgers signs with another team shortly, while they will have exclusive negotiating rights beyond July 22 if he is still a free agent by that time. This procedural move could set Rodgers up further for a decision on retirement or playing his age-42 season under new Pittsburgh head coach Mike McCarthy, and no changes in stance from team or player are believed to have taken place since it was made.
- Brinker Departs Titans: After a three-year run with the Titans, Chad Brinker has elected to step down from his role as president of football operations. Brinker served as a key figure amidst ongoing front office changes during his time in Tennessee, but he was among the staffers around the league whose tenures came to an end following the draft. The Titans have 2025 hire Mike Borgonzi in place as their general manager at this time. He and Brinker played leading roles in the recent search which resulted in the hiring of head coach Robert Saleh. Borgonzi’s influence in the organization figures to grow moving forward, while Brinker intends to seek out a new personnel role elsewhere in the NFL.
- Commanders Not Eyeing Aiyuk Trade With 49ers: The fate of 49ers wideout Brandon Aiyuk remains uncertain aside from a parting of ways still being anticipated. San Francisco’s preference would be to work out a trade, while suitors continue to wait for an Aiyuk release. Critically, the Commanders are among the teams which are not prepared to part with draft capital and take on the remainder of his through-2028 contract. Washington is instead positioned to sign Aiyuk following his release to a short-term, incentive-laden deal. An arrangement allowing Aiyuk to reunite with quarterback Jayden Daniels and general manager Adam Peters is still something to watch for, but a long wait could be in store if neither team wavers over the coming weeks.
2027 NFL Fifth-Year Option Tracker
May 1 marked the deadline for teams to decide on fifth-year options on 2023 first-rounders. The 2020 CBA revamped the option structure and made them fully guaranteed, rather than guaranteed for injury only. Meanwhile, fifth-year option salaries are now determined by a blend of performance- and usage-based benchmarks:
- Two-time Pro Bowlers (excluding alternates) will earn the same as their position’s franchise tag
- One-time Pro Bowlers will earn the equivalent of the transition tag
- Players who achieve any of the following will receive the average of the third-20th top salaries at their position:
- At least a 75% snap rate in two of their first three seasons
- A 75% snap average across all three seasons
- At least 50% in each of first three seasons
- Players who do not hit any of those benchmarks will receive the average of the third-25th top salaries at their position
PFR’s Offseason Outlook series examined each of these decisions in-depth. Twenty-two options were exercised this year. Here is how each team with an option decision proceeded with 2023 first-round contracts:
- QB Bryce Young, Panthers ($25.9MM): Exercised
- QB C.J. Stroud, Texans ($25.9MM): Exercised
- DE Will Anderson Jr., Texans ($21.51MM): Exercised
- QB Anthony Richardson, Colts ($22.48MM): Declined
- CB Devon Witherspoon, Seahawks ($21.16MM): Exercised
- LT Paris Johnson Jr., Cardinals ($19.07MM): Exercised
- DE Tyree Wilson, Saints ($14.48MM): Declined
- RB Bijan Robinson, Falcons ($11.32MM): Exercised
- DT Jalen Carter, Eagles ($27.13MM): Exercised
- RT Darnell Wright, Bears ($19.07MM): Exercised
- G Peter Skoronski, Titans ($19.07MM): Exercised
- RB Jahmyr Gibbs, Lions ($14.29MM): Exercised
- LB Lukas Van Ness, Packers ($13.75MM): Exercised
- LT Broderick Jones, Steelers ($19.07MM): Declined
- DE Will McDonald, Jets ($13.75MM): Exercised
- CB Emmanuel Forbes, Rams ($12.63MM): Declined
- CB Christian Gonzalez, Patriots ($18.12MM): Exercised
- LB Jack Campbell, Lions ($21.93MM): Declined
- DL Calijah Kancey, Buccaneers ($14.48MM): Exercised
- WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seahawks ($23.85MM): Exercised
- WR Quentin Johnston, Chargers ($18MM): Exercised
- WR Zay Flowers, Ravens ($27.3MM): Exercised
- WR Jordan Addison, Vikings ($18MM): Exercised
- CB Deonte Banks, Giants ($12.63MM): Declined
- TE Dalton Kincaid, Bills ($8.16MM): Exercised
- DT Mazi Smith, Jets ($13.93MM): Declined
- RT Anton Harrison, Jaguars ($19.07MM): Exercised
- DE Myles Murphy, Bengals ($14.48MM): Declined
- DT Bryan Bresee, Saints ($13.93MM): Exercised
- LB Nolan Smith, Eagles ($13.75MM): Exercised
- DE Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Chiefs ($14.48MM): Declined
Poll: Grading Rams’ Ty Simpson Pick
After acquiring a first-round pick from the Falcons at last year’s draft, the Rams entered this offseason with two No. 1s. They were scheduled to select 13th and 29th until general manager Les Snead made yet another win-now move in a March trade with the Chiefs. Snead gave up No. 29 in a package for star cornerback Trent McDuffie, whose presence should boost the Rams’ Super Bowl chances next season.
Once the Rams lost the 29th pick, their odds of using a first-rounder on a developmental quarterback reportedly decreased. Expectations were they would look for immediate aid at No. 13, where USC wide receiver Makai Lemon and Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq were still on the board. Either could have improved an already formidable offense and provided another weapon for quarterback Matthew Stafford. However, instead of drafting Lemon, Sadiq or another pro-ready prospect, Snead decided to take a long-term gamble on Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson.
With Stafford entering his age-38 season and the unproven Stetson Bennett as the Rams’ only other quarterback, it is not surprising they drafted a passer. It did come as a shock that they spent their top pick on one, though, especially in a weak class for the position.
Simpson was considered the second-best QB available throughout the pre-draft process, trailing Raiders No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza, but there was some doubt he would go in the first round. After making a mere 15 starts at Alabama, Simpson entered the draft as a polarizing prospect. He had Snead in his corner all along, though. Even before Simpson officially left school in January, Snead had a first-round grade on him. He said as much to Simpson’s father, Tennesee-Martin head coach Jason Simpson, back in December.
While there was talk that Rams head coach Sean McVay was unhappy with the Ty Simpson pick in the immediate aftermath, he and Snead “were on the same page on this,” Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic said as a guest on Check The Mic with Steve Palazzolo & Sam Monson. Rodrigue added that the Rams would not have taken Simpson without McVay’s blessing.
If Simpson stayed in school for his senior season, the 23-year-old could have taken a $6.5MM offer from Miami to transfer and replace Cardinals third-rounder Carson Beck, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Had he fallen out of the first round, Simpson would have made more money playing for the Hurricanes in 2026. As the 13th overall pick, though, he will sign a four-year deal worth a fully guaranteed $25.41MM.
At least from a financial standpoint, Simpson made the right move leaving college for the pros. The question is: Did the Rams make the right move when they picked him? Vote in PFR’s latest poll and weigh in with your thoughts in the comments section.
Grade the Ty Simpson pick
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C 30% (582)
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D 25% (481)
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F 22% (431)
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B 16% (306)
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A 7% (140)
Total votes: 1,940
5 Key Stories: 4/19/26 – 4/26/26
As always, the NFL draft produced a number of interesting developments with rookie selections as well as veteran player movement. In case you missed some of the top stories from around the league this past week, here is a quick recap:
- Draft Produces Rams’ Simpson Pick, Other Surprises: It did not take long for the second quarterback to come off the board on Thursday night, with the Rams taking Ty Simpson 13th overall. Many were surprised by Los Angeles’ decision, one which will provide the team with a Matthew Stafford successor if things pan out. Connections with the Alabama passer persisted through the lead-in to the draft, but the Rams were expected to target more immediate help for an attempted Super Bowl run in 2026. Instead, general manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay agreed to proceed with the Simpson selection. Other notable draft developments included highly-rated cornerback Jermod McCoy dropping to the Raiders in the fourth round due to medical concerns along with several teams making depth QB investments (such as the Steelers with Drew Allar and the Chiefs with Garrett Nussmeier).
- Eagles, Vikings Finalize Greenard Trade: The Eagles were known to be seeking a pass rush addition well before the draft started. During the event’s second day, to little surprise, a trade agreement was reached with the Vikings to acquire the former Pro Bowler. Greenard and a 2026 seventh-round pick went to Philadelphia for a pair of third-rounders (this year and next). Upon arrival with the Eagles, Greenard – who had been seeking a raise in Minnesota – agreed to a four-year, $100MM extension. The 28-year-old is in line to collect $50MM guaranteed as a result of the new deal. Greenard (who totaled 24.5 sacks between the 2023 and ’24 seasons) will be tasked with helping replace the edge rush production lost when Jaelan Phillips departed in free agency.
- No Cowboys Extension, Trade Expected For Pickens: Shortly before the first round began, it was learned the Cowboys will not negotiate with wideout George Pickens on a long-term deal. The franchise tag recipient has until mid-July to sign an extension, but none will be forthcoming unless talks resume. Pickens, 25, is set to sign his tender and thus become eligible for a trade. However, Dallas does not intend to move on in this case. The Cowboys are scheduled to pay Pickens $27.3MM in 2026, making him an expensive partner for CeeDee Lamb next season. Keeping that tandem in place for the long term would cost even more, and it remains to be seen if the team is prepared to do so. Meanwhile, Pickens signing the tag will obligate him to attend events like mandatory minicamp in June and training camp the following month.
- Williams Agrees To New 49ers Deal: The 49ers managed to accomplish their goal of settling the Trent Williams situation in time for the draft. Team and player agreed to a two-year, $50MM extension. The new deal contains $37MM in guarantees and will set up Williams to continue serving as San Francisco’s left tackle through at least 2027. The 12-time Pro Bowler was in line to carry an untenable cap charge for this season without a new agreement, and he managed to secure a notable figure in terms of locked-in compensation once more. Williams is entering his age-38 campaign, but he will be expected to remain one of the league’s top blockers deep into his career. Doing so would go a long way in helping the 49ers return to the playoffs in 2026.
- Reed Lands Packers Extension: Jayden Reed was set to enter 2026 as the final year of his rookie contract. A potential free agent departure will not be taking place, though, with the fourth-year wideout agreeing to a Packers extension. Green Bay authorized $50.25MM in new money on a three-year contract, including $20MM guaranteed. Reed, 26, later this month, is thus under team control through 2029. He was limited to just seven games last season, but a return to full health could see Reed reprise his role as a focal point in Green Bay’s passing game. The Packers traded away Dontayvion Wicks, whereas Reed is joined by Christian Watson as a member of the team’s young receiving corps who has landed a deal beyond his rookie pact.
2026 NFL Draft Results: Team By Team
Here is every team’s haul from the 2026 NFL Draft:
Arizona Cardinals
- Round 1, No. 3: Jeremiyah Love (RB, Notre Dame)
- Round 2, No. 34: Chase Bisontis (G, Texas A&M)
- Round 3, No. 65: Carson Beck (QB, Miami)
- Round 4, No. 104: Kaleb Proctor (DT, Southeastern Louisiana)
- Round 5, No. 143: Reggie Virgil (WR, Texas Tech) (signed)
- Round 6, No. 183: Karson Sharar (LB, Iowa) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 217: Jayden Williams (T, Ole Miss) (signed)
Atlanta Falcons
- Round 2, No. 48: Avieon Terrell (CB, Clemson)
- Round 3, No. 79: Zachariah Branch (WR, Georgia) (signed)
- Round 4, No. 134 (from Raiders)*: Kendal Daniels (LB, Oklahoma) (signed)
- Round 6, No. 208 (from Bills via Jets and Raiders): Anterio Thompson (DT, Washington)
- Round 6, No. 215) (from Eagles)*: Harold Perkins (LB, LSU) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 231: Ethan Onianwa (T, Ohio State) (signed)
Baltimore Ravens
- Round 1, No. 14: Vega Ioane (G, Penn State) (signed)
- Round 2, No. 45: Zion Young (EDGE, Missouri)
- Round 3, No. 80: Ja’Kobi Lane (WR, USC) (signed)
- Round 4, No. 115: Elijah Sarratt (WR, Indiana) (signed)
- Round 4, No. 133 (from 49ers)*: Matthew Hibner (TE, SMU) (signed)
- Round 5, No. 162 (from Chargers): Chandler Rivers (CB, Duke) (signed)
- Round 5, No. 173*: Josh Cuevas (TE, Alabama) (signed)
- Round 5, No. 174*: Adam Randall (RB, Clemson) (signed)
- Round 6, No. 211 (from Broncos via Jets, Vikings and Eagles): Ryan Eckley (P, Michigan State) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 250: Rayshaun Benny (DT, Michigan) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 253: Evan Beerntsen (G, Northwestern) (signed)
Buffalo Bills
- Round 2, No. 35 (from Titans): T.J. Parker (EDGE, Clemson) (signed)
- Round 2, No. 62: Davison Igbinosun (CB, Ohio State)
- Round 4, No. 102 (from Raiders): Jude Bowry (T, Boston College)
- Round 4, No. 125 (from Bears via Chiefs and Patriots): Skylar Bell (WR, UConn)
- Round 4, No. 126: Kaleb Elarms-Orr (LB, TCU)
- Round 5, No. 167 (from Texans): Jalon Kilgore (S, South Carolina) (signed)
- Round 5, No. 181 (from Lions)*: Zane Durant (DT, Penn State) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 220 (from Jets): Toriano Pride Jr. (CB, Missouri) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 239 (from Eagles via Jaguars, Browns and Bears): Tommy Doman (P, Florida) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 241 (from Bears): Ar’maj Reed-Adams (G, Texas A&M) (signed)
Carolina Panthers
- Round 1, No. 19: Monroe Freeling (T, Georgia) (signed)
- Round 2, No. 49 (from Vikings): Lee Hunter (DT, Texas Tech)
- Round 3, No. 83: Chris Brazzell II (WR, Tennessee) (signed)
- Round 4, No. 129 (from Bears): Will Lee III (CB, Texas A&M) (signed)
- Round 5, No. 144 (from Titans via Panthers): Sam Hecht (C, Kansas State) (signed)
- Round 5, No. 151 (from Dolphins): Zakee Wheatley (S, Penn State) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 227 (from Dolphins): Jackson Kuwatch (LB, Miami (OH)) (signed)
Chicago Bears
- Round 1, No. 25: Dillon Thieneman (S, Oregon)
- Round 2, No. 57: Logan Jones (C, Iowa)
- Round 3, No. 69 (from Giants via Texans, Bills and Titans): Sam Roush (TE, Stanford)
- Round 3, No. 89: Zavion Thomas (WR, LSU)
- Round 4, No. 124 (from Jaguars via Panthers): Malik Muhammad (CB, Texas)
- Round 5, No. 166 (from 49ers via Eagles and Panthers): Keyshaun Elliott (LB, Arizona State)
- Round 6, No. 213 (from Seahawks via Jaguars, Lions and Bills): Jordan Van Den Berg (DT, Georgia Tech)
Cincinnati Bengals
- Round 2, No. 41: Cashius Howell (DE, Texas A&M)
- Round 3, No. 72: Tacario Davis (CB, Washington)
- Round 4, No. 128 (from Texans via Lions and Bengals): Connor Lew (C, Auburn)
- Round 4, No. 140 (from Bengals): Colbie Young (WR, Georgia)
- Round 6, No. 189: Brian Parker II (C, Duke)
- Round 7, No. 221 (from Giants via Cowboys): Jack Endries (TE, Texas)
- Round 7, No. 226: Landon Robinson (DT, Navy)
Cleveland Browns
- Round 1, No. 9 (from Chiefs): Spencer Fano (T, Utah)
- Round 1, No. 24 (from Jaguars): KC Concepcion (WR, Texas A&M)
- Round 2, No. 39: Denzel Boston (WR, Washington)
- Round 2, No. 58 (from 49ers): Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (S, Toledo)
- Round 3, No. 86 (from Chargers): Austin Barber (T, Florida)
- Round 5, No. 146: Parker Brailsford (C, Alabama)
- Round 5, No. 149 (from Bengals): Justin Jefferson (LB, Alabama)
- Round 5, No. 170 (from Broncos): Joe Royer (TE, Cincinnati)
- Round 6, No. 182 (from Jets via Browns, Jaguars, Raiders, Bills and Broncos): Taylen Green (QB, Arkansas)
- Round 7, No. 248 (from Seahawks): Carsen Ryan (TE, BYU)
Dallas Cowboys
- Round 1, No. 11 (from Dolphins): Caleb Downs (S, Ohio State) (signed)
- Round 1, No. 23 (from Eagles): Malachi Lawrence (EDGE, Central Florida)
- Round 3, No. 92 (from 49ers): Jaishawn Barham (EDGE, Michigan) (signed)
- Round 4, No. 112: Drew Shelton (T, Penn State) (signed)
- Round 4, No. 114 (from Falcons via Eagles): Devin Moore (CB, Florida) (signed)
- Round 5, No. 137 (from Eagles)*: LT Overton (EDGE, Alabama) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 218 (from Titans): Anthony Smith (WR, East Carolina) (signed)
2026 NFL Draft Results By Round
From the No. 1 overall pick to Mr. Irrelevant (No. 257), here are the results from the 2026 NFL Draft:
Round 1
1) Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza (QB, Indiana)
2) New York Jets: David Bailey (EDGE, Texas Tech)
3) Arizona Cardinals: Jeremiyah Love (RB, Notre Dame)
4) Tennessee Titans: Carnell Tate (WR, Ohio State)
5) New York Giants: Arvell Reese (LB/EDGE, Ohio State)
6) Kansas City Chiefs (from Browns): Mansoor Delane (CB, LSU)
7) Washington Commanders: Sonny Styles (LB, Ohio State)
8) New Orleans Saints: Jordyn Tyson (WR, Arizona State)
9) Cleveland Browns (from Chiefs): Spencer Fano (T, Utah)
10) New York Giants (from Bengals): Francis Mauigoa (T, Miami)
11) Dallas Cowboys (from Dolphins): Caleb Downs, (S, Ohio State)
12) Miami Dolphins (from Cowboys): Kadyn Proctor (T, Alabama)
13) Los Angeles Rams (from Falcons): Ty Simpson (QB, Alabama)
14) Baltimore Ravens: Vega Ioane (G, Penn State)
15) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Rueben Bain Jr. (EDGE, Miami)
16) New York Jets (from Colts): Kenyon Sadiq (TE, Oregon)
17) Detroit Lions: Blake Miller (T, Clemson)
18) Minnesota Vikings: Caleb Banks (DT, Florida)
19) Carolina Panthers: Monroe Freeling (T, Georgia)
20) Philadelphia Eagles (from Packers via Cowboys): Makai Lemon (WR, USC)
21) Pittsburgh Steelers: Max Iheanachor (T, Arizona State)
22) Los Angeles Chargers: Akheem Mesidor (EDGE, Miami)
23) Dallas Cowboys (from Eagles): Malachi Lawrence (EDGE, Central Florida)
24) Cleveland Browns (from Jaguars): KC Concepcion (WR, Texas A&M)
25) Chicago Bears: Dillon Thieneman (S, Oregon)
26) Houston Texans (from Bills): Keylan Rutledge (G, Georgia Tech)
27) Miami Dolphins (from 49ers): Chris Johnson (CB, San Diego State)
28) New England Patriots (from Texans via Bills): Caleb Lomu (T, Utah)
29) Kansas City Chiefs (from Rams): Peter Woods (DT, Clemson)
30) New York Jets (from Broncos via Dolphins and 49ers): Omar Cooper Jr. (WR, Indiana)
31) Tennessee Titans (from Patriots via Bills): Keldric Faulk (DE, Auburn)
32) Seattle Seahawks: Jadarian Price (RB, Notre Dame)
Round 2
33) San Francisco 49ers (from Jets): De’Zhaun Stribling (WR, Ole Miss)
34) Arizona Cardinals: Chase Bisontis (G, Texas A&M)
35) Buffalo Bills (from Titans): T.J. Parker (EDGE, Clemson)
36) Houston Texans (from Raiders): Kayden McDonald (DT, Ohio State)
37) New York Giants: Colton Hood (CB, Tennessee)
38) Las Vegas Raiders (from Commanders via Texans): Treydan Stukes (S, Arizona)
39) Cleveland Browns: Denzel Boston (WR, Washington)
40) Kansas City Chiefs: R Mason Thomas (EDGE, Oklahoma)
41) Cincinnati Bengals: Cashius Howell (EDGE, Texas A&M)
42) New Orleans Saints: Christen Miller (DT, Georgia)
43) Miami Dolphins: Jacob Rodriguez (LB, Texas Tech)
44) Detroit Lions (from Cowboys via Jets): Derrick Moore (EDGE, Michigan)
45) Baltimore Ravens: Zion Young (EDGE, Missouri)
46) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Josiah Trotter (LB, Missouri)
47) Pittsburgh Steelers (from Colts): Germie Bernard (WR, Alabama)
48) Atlanta Falcons: Avieon Terrell (CB, Clemson)
49) Carolina Panthers (from Vikings): Lee Hunter (DT, Texas Tech)
50) New York Jets (from Lions): D’Angelo Ponds (CB, Indiana)
51) Minnesota Vikings (from Panthers): Jake Golday (LB, Cincinnati)
52) Green Bay Packers: Brandon Cisse (CB, South Carolina)
53) Indianapolis Colts (from Steelers): C.J. Allen (LB, Georgia)
54) Philadelphia Eagles: Eli Stowers (TE, Vanderbilt)
55) New England Patriots (from Chargers): Gabe Jacas (EDGE, Illinois)
56) Jacksonville Jaguars: Nate Boerkircher (TE, Texas A&M)
57) Chicago Bears: Logan Jones (C, Iowa)
58) Cleveland Browns (from 49ers): Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (S, Toledo)
59) Houston Texans: Marlin Klein (TE, Michigan)
60) Tennessee Titans (from Bills via Bears): Anthony Hill Jr. (LB, Texas)
61) Los Angeles Rams: Max Klare (TE, Ohio State)
62) Buffalo Bills (from Broncos): Davison Igbinosun (CB, Ohio State)
63) Los Angeles Chargers (from Patriots): Jake Slaughter, C (Florida)
64) Seattle Seahawks: Bud Clark (S, TCU)
Poll: What Will Cardinals Do With Third Overall Pick?
We have a good idea of how the first two picks of this year’s NFL draft will go. The Raiders are going to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza first overall. Barring something unexpected, the Jets will use the second choice on either Texas Tech edge defender David Bailey or Ohio State linebacker/edge Arvell Reese. There is less certainty at No. 3, where the Cardinals could go a handful of different directions.
Arizona has posted a woeful 15-36 record in Monti Ossenfort‘s three seasons as its general manager, but he will nonetheless run his fourth draft this year. If Ossenfort’s seat isn’t hot yet, it stands to reason his chances of being in this position a year from now will decrease if he misses on his first-rounder tonight. While the Cardinals are entering this draft with glaring needs at right tackle and edge defender, among other spots, Ossenfort could opt for a splashy pick to add more skill to a subpar offense.
Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, arguably the best prospect at any position in this class, has won over the Cardinals’ new Mike LaFleur-led coaching staff. Love could be the Cardinals’ pick, even though they added former Falcon Tyler Allgeier in free agency and still have James Conner, Trey Benson and Zonovan Knight on their roster.
If the Cardinals pass on Love to upgrade in the trenches, they could be the first team to take an offensive lineman. As a rookie GM in 2023, Ossenfort spent the sixth pick on left tackle Paris Johnson, who has turned into a franchise cornerstone. Ossenfort could land a capable bookend for the right side if he grabs someone like Spencer Fano (Utah) or Francis Mauigoa (Miami).
On the defensive side, Reese or Bailey would provide a much-needed pass-rushing upgrade to a unit that tied for 30th in sacks last year. Reese spent a significant portion of his Buckeyes tenure as an off-ball linebacker, but the Cardinals view him as an edge defender going forward.
While there will be enticing prospects available at No. 3, the Cardinals may move down to collect more draft capital. New Orleans, which owns the eighth pick, is one potential trade partner. If the Cardinals trade with the Saints, they would surely receive the eighth selection as part of the package. The Cardinals would still be in good position to upgrade their roster in that scenario. Perhaps Ossenfort will decide trading down is the best option.
What do you expect the Cardinals to do with the third pick tonight? Vote in PFR’s latest poll and weigh in with your thoughts in the comments section.
What will the Cardinals do with the third overall pick?
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Trade down 44% (270)
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Draft Jeremiyah Love 27% (165)
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Draft an edge defender 21% (127)
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Draft an offensive tackle 7% (45)
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Draft a different position 2% (11)
Total votes: 618
Prospect Profile: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren
The University of Toledo recently said goodbye to longtime head coach Jason Candle, who will now take over the head coaching job at UConn. It ends an era of unprecedented success under Candle who had worked as an assistant coach for the Rockets for seven years before occupying the top job for the last 10.
In the 1990s, Toledo produced only five NFL picks. The next decade produced only six. In Candle’s decade-long tenure, 11 Toledo players have been drafted. Eagles cornerback Quinyon Mitchell became only the school’s second Day 1 pick and its first since 1993 two years ago. He should be very quickly succeeded this year by projected first-round safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren.
A Tampa-native, McNeil-Warren expected to play offense at Lakewood HS (FL), where his father worked as wide receivers coach. His coaches, instead, tasked him with playing safety and cornerback as a freshman. Shortly before the winter break of his sophomore year, McNeil-Warren received his first scholarship offer from Candle at Toledo. Shortly into the spring semester, offers from two more Group of 5 schools came through before Miami (FL) came in as the only Florida school to offer him. A year later, after his junior season, Kansas State, Indiana, East Carolina, and Maryland through their hats in the ring.
Multiple injuries in his senior season caused many schools to slowly back off their offers, but Candle and Co. stayed locked in with McNeil-Warren and, ultimately, landed his commitment as a result. McNeil-Warren played sparingly as a true freshman but took over as a standout starter in only his second year with the Rockets. Playing all over the field, he filled up the stat sheet, recording 69 total tackles, four tackles for loss, two interceptions, three passes defensed, and four forced fumbles. His junior year production was hindered due to a five-game absence caused by injury, and he briefly considered transferring for his final year of school before ultimately opting to stay with the school that initially stuck with him as a high school recruit.
Coming back for his senior year, McNeil-Warren lit up the stat sheet. In his final year of college play, he set or matched career highs in total tackles (77), tackles for loss (5.5), sacks (0.5), interceptions (2, one returned for a touchdown), passes defensed (5), and fumble recoveries (2), while tacking on three more forced fumbles. The stat sheet alone tells a huge portion of McNeil-Warren’s story as a player, depicting a disruptive player who can be pesky in coverage and downright dangerous to ballcarriers with loose grips.
Unlike the two other likely first-round safety prospects, McNeil-Warren boasts a tall (6-foot-3), long, broad-shouldered frame. Despite his lanky visage, McNeil-Warren is a smooth runner with with excellent body control and quick hips. He matches up well against tight ends but can use his length and strength to keep smaller, quicker wideouts from getting to too much space and separation. He understands his role on the defense and won’t often be caught out of position, playing with discipline and improved instincts with each year as a starter. He can lay down big hits but, more often, collects himself in front of tacklers to stay in front of them and, often, attempt to punch out the ball.
Unfortunately, these varied levels of aggression at contact can lead to the occasional missed or broken tackles. McNeil-Warren ranges the defense and finds success off great anticipation but could stand to improve in closer coverage. Also, his history of injuries at both the high school and college levels do warrant some consideration.
Most draft rankings have been pretty consistent with the safety position, ranking Ohio State’s Caleb Downs as the only potential top 10 prospect at the position with McNeil-Warren and Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman neck-and-neck about 10-15 picks later. Dane Brugler of The Athletic has Thieneman as S2 and the 18th-best overall prospect with McNeil-Warren as S3 at 23rd overall. Todd McShay of The Ringer is a little lower on both players, putting Thieneman at 21st overall and McNeil-Warren at 32. Daniel Jeremiah, though, of NFL Network is one of the brave few ranking McNeil-Warren (15th overall) over Thieneman (16th).
The injury history may cause concern, but McNeil-Warren’s size-speed combo with elite hip mobility and a knack for punching out fumbles makes him a very likely option to become the third Toledo player ever taken in the first round of the NFL draft. If he can stay healthy at the next level, McNeil-Warren could rival some of the recent success stories for tall, versatile young safeties like Nick Emmanwori and Kyle Hamilton before him.
5 Key Stories: 4/12/26 – 4/19/26
The lead-up to the draft often sees a number of high-profile developments (through player movement or contract extensions) around the league. 2026 has proven to be no different. In case you missed any of this week’s top stories, here’s a quick recap:
- Bengals Acquire, Extend Lawrence: Dexter Lawrence‘s desire for a change of scenery has resulted in a trade. The Pro Bowl defensive tackle has been dealt from the Giants to the Bengals in a swap sending the 10th overall pick to New York. Upon arrival in Cincinnati, Lawrence has agreed to a one-year, $28MM extension; he is therefore on the books through 2028. The Giants were unable to work out a new deal in this case for the second offseason in a row, leading to a breakdown between team and player. Observers have expressed surprise over the value New York managed to receive, and the team will now enter the draft with two top-10 selections. The Bengals, meanwhile, have continued to substantially reshape their defense in 2026. Lawrence will be counted on occupy a major role for the foreseeable future.
- Anderson Signs Market-Setting Texans Extension: Recent reporting suggested Will Anderson Jr. could reset the pass rush market with his Texans extension and reach the $50MM-per-year mark. He has managed to do just that by agreeing to a three-year, $150MM deal. Anderson expectedly had his fifth-year option picked up earlier this spring, meaning this monster extension will keep him under team control through 2030. The former Defensive Rookie of the Year secured $100MM fully guaranteed on his new contract, and his AAV is comfortably the most in the NFL among edge rushers. Anderson, 24, set a new career high with 12 sacks en route to first-team All-Pro honors in 2025. He will be expected to anchor Houston’s defense for years to come while holding the title of the league’s top earner for non-quarterbacks.
- Brissett Seeking New Cardinals Deal: The Cardinals finished 2025 with Jacoby Brissett atop the quarterback depth chart. That is set to remain the case for next season, with Kyler Murray having been traded and Gardner Minshew in place as a backup. Brissett is currently absent from voluntary offseason work while seeking a deal worth that of a QB1. The 33-year-old is owed $5.44MM for 2026 as things stand, nowhere near the market for mid-level starters. On the other hand, Arizona is seen as a prime landing spot for Ty Simpson, who could be viewed as a candidate to develop as a rookie before taking the reins in 2027. That setup would limit the team’s need to make a new investment in Brissett or its urgency to provide short-term incentives.
- Eagles Still Expected To Trade Brown: An A.J. Brown trade has long been a talking point this offseason, even with the Eagles repeatedly trying to downplay speculation in his case. A swap would be far more feasible after June 1 for cap purposes, and a widespread expectation still exists that Philadelphia will move forward with a trade beyond that date. Philadelphia has added Marquise Brown and Elijah Moore in free agency in addition to acquiring Dontayvion Wicks via trade. Those moves have been seen as precursors to a deal sending A.J. Brown elsewhere, something which would end his decorated (but not scandal-free) tenure as an Eagle. A notable WR investment early in the upcoming draft would certainly point further in the direction of Philadelphia eventually dealing Brown.
- Chargers Likely To Retain Johnston: Quentin Johnston has previously been the subject of trade rumors, but he remains on course to play for the Chargers next season. GM Joe Hortiz stated no calls with outside teams have taken place regarding the wideout’s availability, reducing the chances of any swap being worked out. Johnston has drawn criticism early in his career, though the former first-rounder has increased his yardage and efficiency in each of his three Los Angeles seasons while totaling 16 touchdowns over the past two years. Notably, Hortiz added no final decision has been made on Johnston’s fifth-year option covering 2027. Picking up the option would cost $18.1MM for that season, a sharp raise but something the Bolts may be willing to commit to if they keep him in the fold for now.
Pro Football Rumors 2026 NFL Mock Draft
Making a mock draft a year ago was so much simpler. When the Titans were put on the clock at No. 1 overall, all 32 NFL teams held their own first-round picks. This year, four teams have two first-round picks, and five do not pick until Day 2. In addition, draft pundits believe teams will be aggressive with trades in the first round this year. As a result, there has been speculation an early run of offensive tackle prospects could be coming in this draft, delaying any similar run for wide receivers.
Unfortunately, in the current draft order, an early run of offensive tackles makes very little sense, and attempting to predict which teams will outbid which teams to trade up with whichever other third teams is a challenge that would ultimately lead to option paralysis — or, really, more option paralysis than a mock draft usually induces. Therefore, we will continue last year’s tradition, ignoring any trade possibilities after this date and identifying optimal prospects for each team in its current draft slot with its current position needs. And, because no one should have to miss out on the fun, the five teams not participating on Day 1 will still get mocks for their first picks in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Editor’s note: Bengals have since traded No. 10 overall to Giants for DT Dexter Lawrence
1) Las Vegas Raiders — QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Do we really have to explain much here? Mendoza established himself as the No. 1 overall pick weeks before ultimately securing the Heisman Trophy and a national title. The only question remaining at that point was which team would find their way to the top slot in the draft. Thanks to some late-season wins from the Giants, who had already seemingly found their quarterback of the future, Las Vegas became the clear destination for the Hoosiers’ champion.
Mendoza isn’t quite the top overall pick we’re used to. The Cal transfer benefitted greatly from the offense around him in Bloomington, running frequent run-pass options and quickly getting the ball out to his first, designed read. A good amount of Mendoza’s success last season stemmed from the system and a talented group of receivers around him, and he probably wouldn’t disagree with that. That’s not to say that he can’t do the things he didn’t need to in Indiana. He will just need to work at the next level on deep ball consistency and progressing to his third or even fourth reads, instead of bailing too quickly from the pocket.
Lucky for him, mentor Tom Brady & Co. are setting things up nicely for him. The Raiders have invested heavily in the offensive line lately, and Ashton Jeanty in the backfield should serve as a solid half of any RPOs Vegas opts to adopt from Mendoza’s former team. Mendoza is a smart leader with viral positivity, and he does a lot of the small things right, excelling with anticipation, velocity, and placement at the short and intermediate levels. The Hoosiers haven’t produced a first-round pick since 1994, and Mendoza should become the school’s second-ever top overall pick, following in the footsteps of fullback Corbett Davis (a 1938 Cleveland Rams draftee).
2) New York Jets — DE David Bailey, Texas Tech
The Jets have sold a lot of pieces in recent years, and it’s time to use the loot they’ve stored to restock. Pass rusher has long been the expected position here. Yes, New York has needs at quarterback, but it appears the team is saving up for next year. The Jets are reportedly interested in Ohio State off-ball linebacker Sonny Styles here, but at No. 2 overall, the designated salary in that draft slot would make Styles the ninth-highest-paid off-ball linebacker in the NFL. That draft slot would bring more guaranteed money than Fred Warner and Roquan Smith secured on their extensions, and the Jets would have approximately $68.81MM going to the inside linebacker position — with the team signing Demario Davis a year after authorizing a pricey Jamien Sherwood re-signing — over the next two years.
More realistically, that kind of dough will be going to a pass rusher. Styles’ teammate Arvell Reese was presumed to be the pick here as a multifaceted defender with untapped pass-rushing potential in the mold of Micah Parsons or Abdul Carter, but lately Bailey has become a more popular pick. There’s more to the argument than just this, but it’s a classic debate between production and potential. Having just led Division I-FBS with 14.5 sacks as a Red Raider, Bailey could fit in beautifully across from Will McDonald to form an imposing pass-rushing duo.
3) Arizona Cardinals — DE/LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Man, it really feels like the Cardinals want Bailey here. Reese is also a talented pass rusher and may have a higher ceiling, but Bailey’s game could be a strong fit in Arizona. On offense, the team’s right tackle spot is wide open; Elijah Wilkinson is currently slotted into the starting role opposite Paris Johnson Jr. The Cardinals could go with college RTs Francis Mauigoa (Miami) or Spencer Fano (Utah) here, but ignoring the value of Reese at No. 3 feels wrong. Some early-drafting NFL teams have been looking to trade down, and the Cardinals could certainly offer to move back a few spots to let someone else have Reese while they get a tackle and some draft compensation, but we’re not doing trades.
Instead, the Cardinals take the best player available while still landing a player at a position of need. Reese could easily slot in as a starter across from Josh Sweat as a rookie and inject some life into a pass rush that boasted the third-lowest sack total in the NFL last year. Hell, if needed, Reese could even continue to split time as an off-ball linebacker, like he did as a Buckeye, supplementing a group currently headlined by Mack Wilson, Zaven Collins, and Cody Simon. Reese would have a clear path to becoming the best player at either position if he develops as expected. The Cards making this pick would continue a trend of selecting hybrid players in Round 1, which the team did with Collins, Isaiah Simmons, Haason Reddick (at the time) and Deone Bucannon.
4) Tennessee Titans — RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
The Titans still have so many positions of need they could go almost anywhere with this pick and not be wrong. If Reese or Bailey are still available, the leftover pass rusher could easily be the right call here. Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr. would take to the NFL easily with Jeffery Simmons as a mentor (though, the team has strayed from this idea after early thoughts of reuniting him with Cam Ward). Styles would be an instant upgrade to the linebacking corps, or the team could explore any of the options at tackle. Tennessee could also go with yet another Buckeye and provide Ward with a high-caliber weapon in wide receiver Carnell Tate.
Ultimately, though, a different kind of weapon for Ward may prevail here. After initially being challenged on his rightful place in the top 10 picks of the draft, Love has been creeping higher and higher up projection boards. As we mentioned with Styles, taking Love here instantly makes him the eighth-highest-paid running back in the league. Love going here would also move him past Saquon Barkley for most fully guaranteed money allocated to a running back. The Raiders entered that neighborhood last year by drafting Jeanty at No. 6.
Love would instantly take an immense amount of pressure off Ward, who led the league in sacks taken last year. Love has the type of game-changing talent that could open up the offense. With a remarkable blend of strength, speed, aggression, and balance, this high-jumping rusher will bring Offensive Rookie of the Year potential.
5) New York Giants — T Francis Mauigoa, Miami (Fla.)
One of the teams leading the charge for trading back from the early first round has been John Harbaugh’s Giants, and that could be the most likely outcome for this pick where talent exists but maybe not at positions New York is trying to bolster. At some point, adding another starting-caliber receiver or cornerback or investing in a top defensive tackle prospect could be really impactful for the Giants, but this early, anyone aside from Tate feels like a significant reach here, and Tate still feels like a bit of a reach at No. 5 (though, his stock has continued to grow lately). It feels like the team did enough work at linebacker and tight end in free agency to rule those out, too.
If the Giants are staying put here, Mauigoa makes sense for a few reasons. While the Giants have their starting tackles in place on multiyear deals, Andrew Thomas has struggled with his health in recent years. Now, a fifth overall pick may seem a bit rich for a swing tackle, but draft pundits have been pretty vocal about their belief that Mauigoa’s best position may be on the interior offensive line, where the Giants have questionable starters on expiring deals.
Though he only played right tackle in college, Mauigoa has expressed willingness to move around the line. There are areas he could improve on as he develops as an NFL tackle, but if Big Blue needs to stick him at guard right now, he’s got a strong skillset to start there and kick out to cover a tackle spot if needed, solving multiple issues along the team’s offensive line.
6) Cleveland Browns — T Spencer Fano, Utah
Let’s cheat a bit here. Even though the potential run of offensive tackles is not to come in this mock, we can put Cleveland in that mindset and still have this make sense. The Browns’ biggest needs are at wide receiver and offensive line. If there’s going to be a run of tackles delaying the selection of top receivers, it makes sense for the team to lock up a strong bookend at the start of the run and hope the depth of the top-tier receivers will leave some strong options remaining when their second Day 1 pick rolls around.
Cleveland was recently linked to Alabama’s Kadyn Proctor, but it’s hard to picture him jumping up a few spots over Fano. Proctor may make sense if the Browns trade back a bit, though, and that’s something that’s been rumored for both their picks. Instead, Cleveland follows New York’s example and lands a top right tackle with potential versatility — honestly, these two picks could be swapped and it wouldn’t shock. Neither team could really go wrong with either player. As the Browns completely rebuild their offensive line from last year with a few new and familiar pieces, Fano could be an indispensable option with the ability to solve multiple issues, much like Mauigoa.
7) Washington Commanders — LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
This was a tough one. The Commanders lost a good number of pieces in free agency but did a good overall job of restocking. Bringing in Odafe Oweh and K’Lavon Chaisson should help the pass rush, and Chig Okonkwo should be able to effectively replace Zach Ertz. The return of Dyami Brown and addition of Van Jefferson were barely convincing enough to not go Tate here, and it doesn’t feel like cornerback is the move here either after the team used high picks on Mike Sainristil and Trey Amos in recent years.
