NFL Draft 2026 Round 1 Set for Pittsburgh with Raiders Holding Top Pick
The NFL Draft 2026 Round 1 is officially scheduled for April 23, 2026, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This highly anticipated event will kick off the selection process for the league's future stars, with the Las Vegas Raiders securing the No. 1 overall pick. The New Orleans Saints follow closely with the No. 8 pick in the first round, setting the stage for strategic team-building moves.
Team Draft Positions and Key Acquisitions
Jerry Jones' Dallas Cowboys have strategically positioned themselves with two first-round picks at No. 12 and No. 20. These selections were acquired through the notable trade of Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers, providing the Cowboys with valuable flexibility. Meanwhile, Cal McNair's Houston Texans hold a first-round pick at No. 28, aiming to bolster their roster with top-tier talent.
Mock Draft Projections for Top Teams
NFL Mock Draft 2026 Round 1 predictions highlight several standout prospects. For the Las Vegas Raiders, quarterback Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana Hoosiers is a leading candidate. ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has identified Mendoza as a potential Round 1 pick, noting that despite Geno Smith's trade following Derek Carr's departure to New Orleans, the Raiders' quarterback issues remain unresolved. Their new head coach, Super Bowl LX winner Klint Kubiak, seeks a signal-caller to build his offensive strategy around.
The New Orleans Saints are projected to select wide receiver Makai Lemon of the USC Trojans. Kiper Jr. suggests Lemon would be a productive addition for quarterback Tyler Shough in his second year with the Saints, praising his ability to attack the ball in the air. In 2025, Lemon amassed an impressive 1,156 receiving yards, showcasing his playmaking potential.
For the Dallas Cowboys, cornerback Mansoor Delane of the LSU Tigers is a mock draft favorite. Delane is renowned for his ability to shut down opposing receivers and make impactful plays on the ball. In the 2025 season, he broke up 11 passes and recorded two interceptions, demonstrating his defensive prowess.
The Houston Texans are eyeing running back Jadarian Price of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Price is described as a powerful runner with a one-cut-and-go style, making him an ideal fit for Houston's offensive scheme. His 2025 statistics include 11 rushing touchdowns, two touchdown receptions, and two kickoff return touchdowns, highlighting his versatility and scoring ability.
Additional Mock Draft Insights
Beyond the top prospects, mock drafts reveal other potential first-round picks. For the Houston Texans, options include offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor from the Alabama Crimson Tide, as reported by NFL Network, and linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. from the Texas Longhorns, according to Sports Illustrated.
The Dallas Cowboys are also linked to linebacker Taurean York from Texas A&M, as noted by The Landry Hat, and defensive tackle Keldric Faulk from the Auburn Tigers, per The Athletic.
The New Orleans Saints might consider linebacker Alex "Sonny" Styles from the Ohio State Buckeyes, as suggested by Sports Illustrated, and running back Jeremiyah Love from the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, according to Canal Street Chronicles.
For the Las Vegas Raiders, guard Olaivavega "Vega" Ioane from the Penn State Nittany Lions is a possibility, as highlighted by A to Z Sports, alongside quarterback Fernando Mendoza from CBS Sports.
This draft promises to shape the future of NFL franchises, with teams leveraging picks to address key needs and secure emerging talent. Fans and analysts alike await the April event to see how these projections unfold on draft day.
