ESPN analyst Jordan Reid has released a midseason mock draft for the 2026 NFL draft, projecting the entire first round with key insights, including a quarterback at No. 1 but not at No. 2. The New York Jets, holding the top pick due to their winless record, are predicted to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, while the Baltimore Ravens at No. 2 are forecasted to pick Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr.
The Jets’ choice of Mendoza addresses their urgent need for a franchise quarterback after Justin Fields’ disappointing performance. Mendoza’s accuracy and timing align well with the Jets’ offensive scheme, offering potential optimism for a team with one of the NFL’s worst offenses. His transfer from Cal to Indiana has yielded strong results, including 17 touchdown passes to two interceptions and a QBR of 84.2 ranking seventh in the FBS, making him a compelling option for a rebuild.
Conversely, the Ravens’ selection of Bain highlights their focus on revamping a defense that has unexpectedly faltered this season. Bain’s versatility to play multiple alignments and his hand power make him an immediate impact player, with 24 pressures ranking eighth in the FBS. This pick aims to stabilize a unit struggling to generate consistent pressure, reflecting broader defensive needs for a team that has surprised with a 1-5 start.
Further down the order, the Cleveland Browns are projected to take Oregon quarterback Dante Moore at No. 3, despite a recent underwhelming performance, due to his calm distribution and arm strength. Moore’s 72% completion percentage ranks ninth in the FBS, but questions about his consistency persist. The Tennessee Titans, at No. 4, are expected to select Auburn edge rusher Keldric Faulk, an NFL-ready run defender who adds pass-rush potential to a team transitioning under a new coach after addressing quarterback needs in the 2025 draft.
The Miami Dolphins, at No. 5, might bypass quarterback concerns to pick Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, bolstering a secondary that has tied for the third-most interceptions this season. This decision reflects the depth of the quarterback class and the value of securing a top defensive prospect. Meanwhile, the New York Giants, at No. 7, are forecasted to select Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson to support quarterback Jaxson Dart, creating a potent receiving duo alongside Malik Nabers upon his return from injury.
Other notable projections include the Las Vegas Raiders taking South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers at No. 9, despite mixed opinions on his current play, and the Cincinnati Bengals opting for Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods at No. 10 to strengthen their interior line. Reid’s mock also accounts for teams with multiple picks, such as the Cleveland Browns adding Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate at No. 25, pairing him with Moore for offensive synergy.
This mock draft provides an early snapshot of team strategies and player valuations, but Reid emphasizes that the landscape will evolve with remaining games, all-star events, and the combine. The predictions highlight the ongoing balance between addressing immediate needs and investing in long-term potential, setting the stage for a dynamic pre-draft process leading up to April 2026.