2026 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1 – Picks 17-32

The Lions became a powerhouse through their great offensive line play. That has changed, with one of the reasons being Taylor Decker’s departure. Decker must be replaced.

Caleb Lomu is a tough blocker with solid potential.

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The Vikings have a big need for a safety with Harrison Smith no longer with the team. It could be argued that this is the best player available.

Caleb Downs projects as one of the top play-making safeties in the NFL in several years. However, Downs has a concern with his knee, so that would explain why he’s fallen in this mock draft update.

Pick change; previously Keldric Faulk, DE/DT

Axe Tepper will do anything in his power to justify the selection of Bryce Young, so he’ll want to give his quarterback another weapon or superior blocking. Offensive tackle is a need with Ikem Ekwonu coming off a brutal injury, and Taylor Moton turning 32 in August.

Kayden Proctor is a colossal, 360-pound blocker. He has great potential, but has some character concerns.

Pick change; previously Kenyon Sadiq, TE

The Cowboys almost have to use both of their first-round picks on defense, given their inability to stop anyone last year. Their edge rush was particularly anemic.

Keldric Faulk has a great mix of power and speed on the edge. He didn’t have a great 2025 season, but his upside will make him a potential top-10 pick.

Pick change; previously Zion Young, DE

The Steelers lost Isaac Seumalo to free agency, so they have to find an upgrade at guard to ensure that their offensive line is functional next year.

Vega Ioane is an explosive guard with a nasty streak.

The Chargers had massive issues on the offensive line last year. Everyone talks about the tackles, but guard was a big problem as well. Meanwhile, the defensive line must also be addressed to help the Chargers sweep Patrick Mahomes.

Caleb Banks is a big interior defender who has quality pass-rush ability for his size.

The Eagles may have to replace Lane Johnson soon, so they may use this pick to do that.

Blake Miller is a good athlete with plus quickness. He needs to get stronger for the NFL.

Pick change; previously Kayden Proctor, OT

The Browns signed a right tackle in free agency, but they still need a left tackle to replace Jedrick Wills.

Monroe Freeling is a reliable pass protector and a capable run blocker. He has good size and could become a left tackle in the pros.

The Bears have the worst pressure rate in the NFL. They need help on the defensive line.

Zion Young has good size and length. There’s plenty of upside.

Pick change; previously Cashius Howell, DE

The Bills traded for D.J. Moore – check out our NFL Trade Grades for more – but they still need another receiver to go along with Moore and Khalil Shakir.

Denzel Boston is a huge receiver with big-play potential.

The 49ers have a dreadful pass rush. They could stand to add some talent in the defensive interior.

Kayden McDonald is a disruptive defender who has plus athleticism at his big size.

The Texans appear to have hit on Aireontae Ersery, so they need to make sure they’re set at right tackle and the interior of the front.

Max Iheanachor was a nasty, power run blocker who needs to improve his pass protection.

Pick change; previously Drew Shelton, OL

The Chiefs acquired this selection by trading Trent McDuffie to the Rams, so it would make sense to obtain a younger and cheaper replacement. Kansas City could also target a safety because it lost its top player at the position.

Dillon Thieneman is a tough safety who is excellent in run support.

The Dolphins acquired this pick for Jaylen Waddle (check out the NFL Trade Grades). They could use this selection to find a replacement, but they could also bolster their anemic cornerback group.

The younger brother of A.J. Terrell, Avieon Terrell is a very instinctive cornerback who plays bigger than his 5-foot-11 size.

The Patriots have reportedly tried to trade for A.J. Brown, but it sounds like Philadelphia’s asking price was too high. One way or another, the Patriots need to give Drake Maye better weapons.

K.C. Concepceion is a quick, shifty receiver.

The Seahawks are likely to trade down, but they could always stay put and draft a talented pass rusher to help them defeat the Rams once again.

Cashius Howell is fast off the edge and has several impressive pass-rushing moves.

Pick change; previously Brandon Cisse, CB