Exciting Trades and Top Picks Highlight 2026 NFL Draft's Thrilling First Round
The 2026 NFL Draft has kicked off with a flurry of trades, contrasting sharply with last year's quiet opening night. Six first-round picks have already changed hands, indicating a busy weekend ahead. The New York Jets, New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs, Miami Dolphins, and Dallas Cowboys are set to make multiple selections, while teams like the Indianapolis Colts, Cincinnati Bengals, Jacksonville Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, and Green Bay Packers will have to wait until Friday. The first overall pick is almost certain, with Fernando Mendoza, the standout quarterback from Indiana, expected to become the Las Vegas Raiders' new franchise player under head coach Klint Kubiak. Mendoza aims to make history as the first Hoosier quarterback drafted in the first round since 1994. Beyond Mendoza, the quarterback class lacks intrigue. Ty Simpson's fate remains uncertain, with opinions on his potential ranging widely. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, and Pittsburgh Steelers face a shortage of options at quarterback as they approach the draft. Key players to watch include: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State Each has a chance to break long-standing trends, as no running back has gone top-5 since 2018, and the last linebacker to do so was in 2019. The first-round grades so far include: Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana - Grade: A Jets: David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech - Grade: C- Cardinals: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame - Grade: C+ Titans: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State - Grade: B As the draft progresses, fans are encouraged to refresh for live updates and analysis on each selection.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-04-24