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

The Lions could go with an offensive lineman with this pick, but defensive line makes a lot of sense as well. Aidan Hutchinson is amazing, but the Lions need a bookend for him.

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.

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Pick change; previously Caleb Lomu, OT

The Vikings could stand to improve their secondary, so cornerback or safety must be addressed soon. A replacement is needed for Harrison Smith, so the second-rated safety in this class could be the pick.

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

Pick change; previously Brandon Cisse, CB

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.

Kenyon Sadiq has upside as an athletic tight end.

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.

T.J. Parker had a breakout sophomore campaign. He has impressive instincts and was very productive.

Pick change; previously Zion Young, DE

The Steelers had major problems stopping the pass last year, thanks to some poor play they had at cornerback. They could find an upgrade with this pick.

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

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.

Pick change; previously Ola Ioane, G

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

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

Jerry Jeudy likely won’t be on the roster much longer, so here’s a potential No. 1 receiver.

Makai Lemon wins on contested catches even though he’s a bit shy of six feet. He interviewed very poorly at the combine, but he still has first-round talent.

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

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

Keon Coleman continues to be a big disappointment. The Bills need a legitimate No. 1 receiver.

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.

Pick change; previously Caleb Banks, DT

The Texans appear to have hit on Aireontae Ersery, but they desperately need a bookend for him, especially with Trent Brown set to hit free agency.

Caleb Lomu is a tough blocker with solid potential.

Pick change; previously Kayden McDonald, DT

Rob Havenstein is gone, so the Rams may need to find a new right tackle.

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.

Charlie Campbell reported that the Broncos are looking at linebackers with this pick, which makes sense, given the need the team has at the position.

C.J. Allen is a smart, tough, and instinctive linebacker.

Pick change; previously R. Mason Thomas, DE/OLB

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.

Pick change; previously C.J. Allen, LB

The Seahawks may lose Tariq Woolen and Josh Jobe in free agency, which would create a huge need for a cornerback opposite Devon Witherspoon.

Brandon Cisse has been an impressive cover cornerback. He has nice size and plus speed and athleticism.

Pick change; previously K.C. Concepceion, WR