By Owen Liu
With the NFL draft wrapping up on April 25, 2026, it’s the perfect time to take a moment and look back on the biggest highlights and defining moments from each team. Some memorable picks from the 2026 draft include but are not limited to:
The draft kicked off with the Las Vegas Raiders unsurprisingly picking Indiana Hoosier’s quarterback, Fernando Mendoza. Considered one of the most dominant single season quarterbacks ever, he led Indiana to a 16-0 season and its first ever national title. Mendoza’s accuracy and performance under pressure offers significant offensive value to stars like Ashton Jeanty and Brock Bowers.
The New York Jets defensive performance in 2025 was nothing short of disappointing. Given those struggles, it makes perfect sense that with the second overall pick, they selected David Bailey, a highly efficient edge rusher from the Texas Tech Red Raiders known for his range, mobility, and ability to disrupt plays off the edge. Additionally, with the 16th overall pick in the draft they also selected the top tight end from the Oregon Ducks, Kenyon Sadiq. Said to be the next George Kittle, he operates as a wide receiver in a tight ends body. Finally, the Jets selected Omar Cooper Jr, a standout wide receiver from Indiana with a high ceiling.
The Arizona Cardinals selected star bound running back, Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame 3rd overall. His unparalleled agility, unmatched athleticism, and all around production will prove to be a valuable asset to the team.
The Tennessee Titans picked up Carnell Tate, a dominant wide receiver from the Ohio State Buckeyes. Known as a smooth and polished receiver, he constantly finds soft spots in zone coverage. His sharp route running and reliability will likely make him the primary target for quarterback Cam Ward.
The New York Giants are building a young team with a lot of young talent. Last year they drafted quarterback Jaxson Dart and running back Cam Skattebo who proved to be very productive offensively. Looking to spruce up their defensive capabilities, they managed to snag linebacker Arvell Reese from the Ohio State Buckeyes. His hybrid play style and versatility will be of great use to the Giants. Additionally, the Giants also drafted Francis Mauigoa from the Miami Hurricanes. He’s an offensive tackle who excels at blocking and is an all around good player. When asked about Jaxson Dart he said, “I die for this s—. I’m ready to die for you, man.”
The Kansas City Chiefs selected Mansoor Delane, a physical and highly competitive cornerback from LSU. His excellent press coverage and significant upside could make him an essential player to the Chief’s defense.
The Washington Commanders with the 7th overall pick selected Sonny Styles, a linebacker from Ohio State. With a blazing fast 4.46 second 40 yard dash and his ability to stop tight ends and running backs, the Washington Commanders could really spruce their defense up.
The New Orleans Saints drafted Jordyn Tyson from the Arizona State Sun Devils. Although he struggled with injuries, he has strong hands and great evasiveness making him a huge threat to watch with the football in his hands.
The Cleveland Browns picked up Utah offensive tackle, Spencer Fano. His fluidity and core strength will make him a crucial addition to the Brown’s already elite defense. Additionally, they also picked up WR, KC Concepcion from Texas A&M
The Baltimore Ravens with the 14th overall pick selected offensive guard Olaivavega Ioane. Being an extremely reliable plug and play player, he will be invaluable to stars like quarterback, Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers drafted edge rusher, Reuben Bain Jr from Miami Hurricane
The Dallas Cowboys selected safety Caleb Downs from the Ohio State Buckeyes. Known for his outstanding instincts and quickness, he is a physical and strong run defender whose versatility is best at the line of scrimmage. Later in the first round, they also snagged Malachi Lawrence from UCF. His high motor play style will prove to be invaluable.
The Miami Dolphins selected Kadyn Proctor, an offensive tackle from the Alabama Crimson Tide, is capable of mauling defenders and his perfect for man/gap heavy run schemes.
The LA Rams had one of the more surprising picks of the draft with the selection of QB, Ty Simpson. With a superbowl contending team and with 2025 NFL MVP, Matthew Stafford, you would think they would pick a player that they could use right off the bat like Makai Lemon. However, with the 13th pick in the NFl draft, they chose Ty Simpson, quarterback from the Alabama Crimson Tide. His mechanics and reads are quite excellent and does a good job getting the ball down the field.
The Carolina Panthers selected Monroe Freeling, a highly skilled offensive tackle from Georgia.
The Philadelphia Eagles with the 20th overall pick selected Wide Receiver, Makai Lemon. He led the USC Trojans in receiving yards and is a very polished receiver nonetheless.
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Max Iheananchor a very mobile offensive tackle from Arizona State.
With the 265th pick in the NFL draft, the Denver Broncos picked Red Murdock, a linebacker from Buffalo. Will this year’s Mr. Irrelevant be the next defensive equivalent of Brock Purdy? Only time will tell.
Overall, the 2026 NFL Draft reflected a balance between immediate and long term impact. The picks listed above are just some of the many valuable and impactful players drafted from the pool of college athletes. With these picks, it will be interesting to see how the next season goes.
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