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2026 NFL Mock Draft: Final Mock 7 Rounds
Round 3
Chris Ransom follow @DraftUtopia Last Updated: April 23, 2026.
Arizona Cardinals: Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama 
- Arizona could take a quarterback here. I would take Carson Beck the Miami Hurricanes quarterback here, but I expect the Arizona Cardinals to draft Ty Simpson if he's still here in the third round. I gave Arizona David Bailey in the first round and Caleb Tiernan in the second round. Tony Mario has been telling me that the Cardinals have had the most interest in Ty Simpson for nearly two months.
- The 6-1 211 lb Ty Simpson had 3,567 passing yards, 28 passing touchdowns, 93 rushing yards, 2 rushing touchdowns, 3,660 total yards, 30 total touchdowns, and 5 interceptons in 2025. Ty Simpson only has one year of experience as a starter and is my fifth best quarterback. I got him being the third quarterback off the board to start the third round.
- Other Arizona Cardinals Selections
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Tennessee Titans: Chandler Rivers, CB, Duke 
- Tennessee drafts a cornerback here. This is a guy that can play on the outside despite his size. He might be better off as a nickel cornerback. Tennessee gets a player that I had a late second round grade on for most of the draft process until I moved him down to 66 the week before the 2026 NFL Draft down to the third round with this early third round pick. Duke cornerback Chandler Rivers was a player that almost made the first round of my preseason mock. I believe he would push Cor'Dale Flott for the boudary cornerback role as the number two cornerback across from Alontae Taylor.
- The 5-9 185 lb Chandler Rivers had 30 solo tackles, 24 assisted tackles, 54 total tackles, 9 deflections from pass breakups, 7.5 tackles for a loss, 3 intereptions, 3 quarterback hurries, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 defensive touchdown as a junior in 2024. Chandler Rivers had 37 solo tackles, 22 assisted tackles, 59 total tackles, 8 deflections from pass breakups, 2 interceptions, 1 quarterback hurry, and 1 forced fumble as a senior in 2025.
- I gave Chandler Rivers an A- grade in man coverage, an A grade in zone coverage, an A grade in press coverage, an A grade in run stuffing, and an A grade in blitzing. Chandler Rivers can play in a cover 0, cover 1, cover 2, cover 3, or cover 4 scheme.
- Other Tennessee Titans Selections
Las Vegas Raiders: Kayden McDonald, NT, Ohio State 
- Las Vegas could get Louisville wide receiver Chris Bell here hoping he becomes a number one flanker wide receiver, Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald as a 3-4 nose tackle, or Ohio State field cornerback Davison Igbinosun as someone who could push compliment Eric Stokes, potentially push him for the field cornerback job. Those three players rank 71-73 on my Draft Utopia 2026 NFL Draft Simulator, but Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald ranks the highest of those three players with the versatility to play 4-3 defensive tackle as well as 3-4 nose tackle.
- The 6-2 326 lb Kayden McDonald had 31 solo tackles, 34 assisted tackles, 65total tackles, 9 tackles for a loss, 3 sacks, 2 quarterback hurries, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 deflection from a pass breakup in 2025. Kayden McDonald might be the best pure run stuffing defensive tackle in this draft. I got to see him develop more as a pass rusher. Guys like Peter Woods, Christen Miller, and Tim Keenan III can dominate as both pass rushers and run stuffers while still winning one-on-ones while triple teamed. Kayden McDonald is the best run stuffer when he gets a running back in open space, but he doesn't dominate like those three for me on film.
- Other Las Vegas Raiders Selections
Philadelphia Eagles: Ar'Maj Reed-Adams, RG, Texas A&M 
- Philadelphia drafts a right guard to replace Tyler Steen. Ar'Maj Reed-Adams is my top player on the board still available in the third round.
- The 6-5 314 lb Ar'Maj Reed-Adams has the pass blocking, pass blocking strength, pass blocking footwork, run blocking, run blocking strength, run blocking footwork, zone blocking, pancake blocking, pull blocking, and cut blocking you want from a guard. I have a 91/99 for potential on Ar'Maj Reed-Adams making this an excellent value pick for Philadelphia in the third round.
- Other Philadelphia Eagles Selections
Houston Texans: Aaron Graves, DT, Iowa 
- Houston brought back Sheldon Rankins at 4-3 defensive tackle. I think Iowa defensive tackle Aaron Graves could potentially beat out both Tommy Togiai and Logan Hall for the starting 4-3 defensive tackle job across from Sheldon Rankins.
- The 6-5 295 lb Aaron Graves had 17 solo tackles, 20 assisted tackles, 37 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for a loss, 5 sacks, 3 quarterback hurries, 1 interception, and 1 deflection from a pass breakup in 2025. Aaron Graves has the pass rushing, run stuffing, and coverage you want in a defensive tacke. Aaron Graves can line up at 4-3 defensive tackle, 3-4 right end, 3-4 nose tackle, and 3-4 left end with his versatility.
- Other Houston Texans Selections
Cleveland Browns: Tanner Kozoil, TE, Houston 
- Cleveland will get either a tight end, defensive tackle, or free safety here. I gave the Browns a wide receiver and left tackle in the first round. I went for a nickel cornerback in the second round. I am giving the Cleveland Browns a second tight end to compliment Harold Fannin Jr. Houston tight end Tanner Kozoil is the best player available on my board at a position of need.
- The 6-6 247 lb Tanner Kozoil had 94 receptions, 839 receiving yards, and 8 receiving touchdowns at Ball State in 2024. Tanner Kozoil had 74 receptions, 727 receiving yards, and 6 receiving touchdowns when transferring to Houston in 2025. Tanner Kozoil ran 9/30 routes in the two games I watched against Miami FL and Ohio. Like Eli Stowers, Tanner Kozoil is an excellent run blocking tight end as well as an excellent pass blocking tight end. I got a 91/99 potential grade on Tanner Kozoil.
- Other Cleveland Browns Selections
Washington Commanders: Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State
- Washington drafts a boundary cornerback to compliment last years second round pick Trey Amos with Mike Sainristl complimentng those two cornerbacks at nickel cornerback. Ohio State cornerback Davison Igbinosun is the top ranked cornerback on my board at this point in the third round.
- The 6-2 189 lb Davison Igbinosun had 29 solo tackles, 24 assisted tackles, 53 total tackles, 8 deflections from pass breakups, 2 nterceptions, and a 0.5 tackle for a loss as Ohio State's number one field cornerback in 2025. DavisoN Igbinosun was the boundary cornerback next to Denzel Burke the year before that in 2024. I gave Davison Igbinosun an A grade in man coverage, an A- in zone coverage, and A- in press coverage. Davison Igbinosun can play in a cover 0, cover 1, cover 2, cover 3, and cover 4 scheme.
- Other Washington Commanders Selections
Cincinnati Bengals: Cashius Howell, RE, Texas A&M
- Cincinnati drafts a 4-3 right end for depth to push guys like Boye Mafe, Myles Murphy, and Shermar Stewart. Cashius Howell is my best player on the board and makes total sense in the third round.
- The 6-2 253 lb Cashius Howell had 20 solo tackles, 11 assisted tackles, 31 total tackles, 14 tackles for a loss, 11.5 sacks, 6 deflections from pass breakups, 5 quarterback hurries, and 1 forced fumble in 2025. Cashius Howell has the pass rushing and run stuffing you want in a defensive end. Cashius Howell was a backup to Nic Scourton and Shermar Stewart in 2024 before starting on Texas A&M in 2025.
- Other Cincinnati Bengals Selections
New Orleans Saints: Gracen Halton, 3-4 LE, Oklahoma 
- New Orleans gets a 3-4 left end for depth. Oklahoma defensive tackle Gracen Halton projects as a 3-4 left end as he would be a good replacement to Nathan Shepherd down the road. Gracen Halton can line up at 4-3 defensive tackle, 3-4 right end, 3-4 nose tackle, and 3-4 left end with his versatility.
- The 6-3 293 lb Gracen Halton had 11 solo tackles, 22 assisted tackles, 33 total tackles, 7 tackles for a loss, 7 quarterback hurries, 3.5 sacks, 2 deflections from pass breakups, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 defensive touchdown off a fumble recovery in 2025. Gracen Halton won one-on-ones against Alabama left tackle Kadyn Proctor. Gracen Halton has the pass rushing and run stuffing to dominate despite his lack of mass. He does lunge too much and his technique does need to get cleaned up. I had a third round grade on him prior to the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl, and he dominated in Mobile Alabama this year.
- Other New Orleans Saints Selections
Kansas City Chiefs: Dani Dennis-Sutton, LE, Penn State 
- Kansas City has Ashton Gillotte at 4-3 right end, George Karlaftis at 4-3 left end, and Felix Anudike-Uzomah as the backup 4-3 right end. Getting one more pass rusher to push those three feels necessary. Penn State 4-3 defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton played 4-3 right end in 2025 and played 4-3 left end across from Abdul Carter in 2024 meaning he has the versatility to play defensive end on either side.
- The 6-5 256 lb Dani Dennis-Sutton had 26 solo tackles, 16 assisted tackles, 42 total tackles, 12 tackles for a loss, 8.5 sacks, 8 quarterback hurries, and 8 deflections from pass breakups in 2025. Dani Dennis-Sutton has the pass rushing, run stuffing, and coverage you want in a defensive end. He also has the ability to win double teams and still get to the quarterback.
- Other Kansas City Chiefs Selections
Miami Dolphins: Carson Beck, QB, Miami FL 
- Miami drafts a quarterback to push Malik Willis and Quinn Ewers. Carson Beck, the hometown quarterback on the Miami Hurricanes joins the Miami Dolphins quarterback room as he is sixty fifth overall on my current big board and the best player on the board at this point in the third round.
- The 6-4 233 lb Carson Beck had 3,813 passing yards, 30 passing touchdowns, a 72.4 completion percentage, a 81.8 quarterback rating which ranked tenth in the FBS, 43 rushing yards, 2 rushng touchdowns, 3,856 total yards, 32 total touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in 2025. Carson Beck got Miami FL into this years College Football Playoff despite failing to win the ACC Conference as Miami FL made it all the way to the Championship game before losing to Indiana.
- Other Miami Dolphins Selections
Pittsburgh Steelers: A.J. Haulcy, FS, LSU 
- The Pittsburgh Steelers currently have Jalen Ramsey at field cornerback, Joey Porter Jr. at boundary cornerback, Jamel Dean at nickel cornerback, Brandin Echols at dime cornerback, Asante Samuel Jr. at quarter cornerback, Cory Trice Jr. as their number six cornerback, and DeShon Elliott as the starting strong safety. Pittsburgh needs a day 1 starter at free safety. LSU free safety A.J. Haulcy is the best player on the board.
- The 6-0 215 lb A.J. Haulcy had 49 solo tackles, 39 assisted tackles, 88 total tackles, 4 deflections from pass breakups, 3 interceptions, 1 forced fumble, and a 0.5 tackle for a loss in 2025. A.J. Haulcy played at New Mexico as a freshman, he transferred to Houston for his sophomore and junior seasons before wrapping up his career at Houston. I gave A.J. Haulcy a C grade in man coverage, an A+ in zone coverage, and a B grade in press coverage. A.J. Haulcy is perfect for a cover 1 with a free safety playing zone coverage, cover 2, cover 3, or cover 4 defense. As long as you don't put him in cover 0 he should have success. I also gave A.J. Haulcy an A+ in hard hitting. He does need to take better angles.
- Other Pittsburgh Steelers Selections
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Gabe Jacas, 3-4 LOLB, Illinois 
- Tampa Bay is eying multiple pass rushers. I gave Tampa Bay Mikail Kamara in the second round, but I'm giving them a sack artst in the third round with Illinois outside linebacker Gabe Jacas.
- Gabe Jacas can play 4-3 right end, 4-3 left end, 3-4 right outside linebacker, and 3-4 left outside linebacker. Gabe Jacas has such a presence off the edge and it was partially why he was voted a team captain of Illinois this past season.
- The 6-3 261 lb Gabe Jacas had 38 solo tackles, 36 assisted tackles, 74 total tackles, 13 tackles for a loss, 8 sacks, 10 quarterback hurries, and 3 forced fumbles as a junior at Illinois in 2024. Gabe Jacas had 23 solo tackles, 20 assisted tackles, 43 total tackles, 13.5 tackles for a loss, 11 sacks, 6 quarterback hurries, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 deflection from pass breakup as a senior in 2025. Gabe Jacas gives Tampa Bay another pass rusher on their defense as Jacas has elite pass rushing and run stuffing regardless of what scheme you plug him into.
- Other Tampa Bay Buccaneers Selections
Indianapolis Colts: Aiden Fisher, ROLB, Indiana 
- The Indianapolis Colts draft a day 1 starter at 4-3 right outside linebacker. Indiana outside linebacker Aiden Fisher. Aiden Fisher can play 4-3 right outside linebacker, 4-3 middle linebacker, 4-3 left outside linebacker, and 3-4 middle linebacker. Aiden Fisher is a lot more versatile than I realized. Aiden Fisher impressed me so much, that I moved him into the second round of my 2026 NFL Draft Simulator.
- The 6-0 233 lb Aiden Fisher had 46 solo tackles, 51 assisted tackles, 97 total tackles, 10.5 tackles for a loss, 5 quarterback hurries, 4.5 sacks, 2 interceptions, 1 deflection from a pass breakup, and 1 forced fumble in 2025. Indianapolis needs a day 1 starter at 4-3 right outside linebacker and that is what Aiden Fisher provides at this point.
- Other Indianapolis Colts Selections
Atlanta Falcons: Chris Bell, WR, Louisville 
- Atlanta drafts a wide receiver to compliment Drake London here. Louisville wide receiver Chris Bell is an absolute steal at this point in the third round.
- The 6-2 222 lb Chris Bell had 72 receptions, 917 receiving yards, and 6 receiving touchdowns in 2025. Chris Bell ran 24/30 routes in the highlights and game film I saw. Most of his big plays came against zone coverage as Chris Bell wasn't as consistent against man and press coverage. Chris Bell was in consideration to be a first round pick before tearing his achilles. Chris Bell is talented enough to be a number one wide receiver. In Atlanta he becomes a very good number two complimentary wide receiver across from Drake London.
- Other Atlanta Falcons Selections
Baltimore Ravens: Eric McAlister, WR, TCU 
- Baltimore drafts a big wide receiver that can play on the outside with Rashod Bateman and Zay Flowers in three wide receiver sets. DeVontez Walker is a very good number four wide receiver for depth, but he's not a guy I want starting regularly. TCU wide receiver Eric McAlister is the best player on my board at this point in the third round. Eric McCalister played in his bowl game too leading TCU to an overtime win over USC. I also considered Clemson right tackle Blake Miller, but drafting a day 1 starter versus a guy that would compete for a starting job seemed irresponsible here.
- The 6-3 205 lb Eric McAlister had 72 receptions, 1,190 receiving yards, and 10 receiving touchdowns at TCU in 2025. Eric McAlister can run 23/30 routes on the route tree.
- Other Baltimore Ravens Selections
Jacksonville Jaguars: Max Klare, TE, Ohio State
- Jacksonville gets a new starting tight end. Brenton Strange was ranked 20/20 among my top tight ends in the 2023 NFL Draft. Ohio State tight end Max Klare is a good replacement to Brenton Strange.
- The 6-4 247 lb Max Klare began his career at Purdue taking over for 2023 NFL Draft prospect Payne Durham as Purdue's starting tight end as a freshman in 2023. After spending two seasons at Purdue he transferred to Ohio State. Max Klare had 51 receptions, 685 receiving yards, and 4 receiving touchdowns as a sophomore in his final season at Purdue in 2024. Max Klare had 43 receptions, 448 receiving yards, and 2 receiving touchdowns in his only season at Ohio State as a junior in 2025 before declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft.
- Max Klare can run 11/30 routes on the route tree second among tight ends behind only Kenyon Sadiq. You can also argue Klare runs cleaner routes than Sadiq despite not having the route tree of Oregon's tight end. Max Klare has the pass blocking and run blocking you want in a tight end too. I got a 90/99 potential grade on Max Klare which ranks fifth among tight ends as Max Klare is my final tight end with upside to develop into a Pro Bowl tight end if he reaches his ceiling.
- Other Jacksonville Jaguars Selections
Minnesota Vikings: Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State 
- Minnesota drafts a cornerback here. Right now James Pierre and Isaiah Rodgers are your two best cornerbacks outside of Byron Murphy Jr. Arizona State cornerback Keith Abney II is a good addition here as he's not just a need, but also the best player available ranked seventy seventh on my 2026 NFL Draft Simulator.
- The 5-10 187 lb Keith Abney II had 36 solo tackles, 8 assisted tackles, 44 total tackles, 12 deflections from pass breakups, 2 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, 1 tackle for a loss, 1 sack, and 1 kick/punt blocked in 2025. I gave Keth Abney II an A- in man coverage, an A- in zone coverage, an A in press coverage, an A+ in pass rushing, an A+ in run stuffing, and an A+ in blitzing. His floor is a nickel cornerback and his ceiling is a number one cornerback. Keith Abney II will start for Minnesota as a rookie either next to Byron Murphy II or on the inside at nickel cornerback since I believe Keith Abney II could beat out both James Pierre and Isaiah Rodgers for the boundary cornerback job as the number two cornerback behind Byron Murphy Jr.
- Other Minnesota Vikings Selections
Carolina Panthers: Lee Hunter, NT, Texas Tech 
- Carolina drafts a nose tackle to develop behind Bobby Brown III for a year. Carolina can cut Bobby Brown III and save $8 million in cap space in 2027. I got a 90/99 potential grade on Texas Tech defensive tackle Lee Hunter, who dominated the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl. Carolina also had a top 30 visit with Lee Hunter.
- The 6-4 330 lb Lee Hunter had 16 solo tackles, 25 assisted tackles, 41 total tackles, 10.5 tackles for a loss, 3 quarterback hurries, 2.5 sacks, and 1 forced fumble in 2025. Lee Hunter is my best defensive tackle on the board and he flat out dominated the Senior Bowl to the point where people are putting him in the first round. Lee Hunter has the pass rushng and run stuffing to be a four down nose tackle in this league.
- Other Carolina Panthers Selections
Green Bay Packers: Treydan Stukes, CB, Arizona 
- Green Bay doubles up at cornerback with both KeiSean Nixon and Carrington Valentine in contract years with those two cornerbacks listed as one and two on Green Bay's depth chart. I mocked Josh Moten in round 2 to Green Bay. The player with the highest potential still on the board at wide receiver and cornerback is Arizona cornerback Treydan Stukes. Malachi Fields is my highest ranked wide receiver still on the board, but I only got a 90/99 on Fields. I will give Green Bay Treydan Stukes here and try to give them a wide receiver with their next pick in the fourth round.
- The 6-1 190 lb Treydan Stukes had 24 solo tackles, 28 assisted tackles, 52 assisted tackles, 6 deflections from pass breakups, 4 interceptions, 1 tackle for a loss, and 1 sack in 2025. I gave Treydan Stukes an B grade in man coverage, an A grade in zone coverage, a B in press coverage, and an A- in run stuffing. Treydan Stukes can play in a cover 2, cover 3, or cover 4 defense. Treydan Stukes is elite at closing and running up the field. Treydan Stukes can play field cornerback, boundary cornerback, nickel cornerback, strong safety, and free safety. Stukes does turn 25, but he may be the most versatile cornerback in this entire draft despite his age.
- Other Green Bay Packers Selections
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Pittsburgh Steelers: Xavien Alford, SS, Arizona State
- Pittsburgh gets their strong safety of the future with this second third round pick. Arizona State strong safety Xavien Alford is the best strong safety on the board at this point in the third round. Xavien Alford did suffer a season endng injury, but he dominated Arizona State's Pro Day with a 4.47 40-yard dash and a 41 inch vertical. I have had Xavien Alford ahead of Ty Simpson on my personal big board, so that tells me Xavien Alford should be a top 100 pick. Xavien Alford was nicknamed the "100 Yard Landlord" after a dominant 2024 season.
- The 6-0 211 lb Xavien Alford had 40 solo tackles, 45 assisted tackles, 5 total tackles, 5 deflections from pass breakups, 2 interceptions, and 1 quarterback hurry in 2024. Xavien Alford had 4 solo tackles, 5 assisted tackles, 9 total tackles, and a 0.5 a tackle for a loss in 2 games in 2025 before a season ending injury. Xavien Alford showed he was healthy at Arizona State's 2026 Pro Day and he entered the preseason as a potential day 2 pick before his injury. Xavien Alford can develop behind DeShon Elliott for a year or two and take over at strong safety in 2027 or 2028.
- Other Pittsburgh Steelers Selections
Los Angeles Chargers: Joshua Braun, LG, Kentucky 
- Los Angeles drafts a left guard to groom behind Trevor Penning to be their future starting left guard. Joshua Braun may be able to push Trevor Penning for the starting left guard job right away as a rookie as I got a 91/99 potential grade on Braun.
- The 6-6 340 lb Joshua Braun has the pass blocking, pass blocking strength, pass blocking footwork, run blocking, run blocking strength, run blocking footwork, and pancake blocking you want in a left guard. He's my top left guard still on the board in the third round.
- Other Los Angeles Chargers Selections
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Miami Dolphins: Blake Miller, RT, Clemson
- Miami drafts a right tackle for the future with Austin Jackson in the final year of his contract. Clemson right tackle Blake Miller makes a lot of sense here. I got a third round grade on Blake Miller, but he does have a 91/99 potential with many projecting him in the first round.
- The 6-7 317 lb Blake Miller has the pass blocking, pass blocking strength, pass blocking footwork, run blocking, run blocking strength, run blocking, pancake blocking, pull blocking, and cut blocking. The only area of improvement with Blake Miller at right tackle is zone blocking.
- Other Miami Dolphins Selections
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Jacksonville Jaguars: Ahmaad Moses, FS, SMU
- Jacksonville gets a free safety that can be groomed by Eric Murray. Jacksonville can buy out Eric Murray if he struggles in 2026.
- The 5-9 196 lb Ahmaad Moses had 54 solo tackles, 50 assisted tackles, 104 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for a loss, 5 interceptions, 3 deflections from pass breakups, and 1 sack in 2025. I gave Ahmaad Moses an A- in man coverage, an A- in zone coverage, and an A- in press coverage. Ahmaad Moses can play in a cover 0, cover 1, cover 2, cover 3, and cover 4 scheme. Moses has a 83/99 man coverage, zone coverage, and press coverage grade that can get into the low nineties as he develops. Despite having spinal fusion surgery a date to return to practice has been set for August 1, 2026. Ahmaad Moses lined up at both strong safety and free safety at SMU despite free safety being his natural positon.
- Other Jacksonville Jaguars Selections
Chicago Bears: Jalen Catalon, SS, Missouri 
- Chicago gets their strong safety here. Jalen Catalon is the only safety that I still have a third round grade on. Chicago gets him as a Jaquan Brisker replacement here.
- The 5-11 205 lb Jalen Catalon can play strong safety or free safety with his versatility. Jalen Catalon had 17 solo tackles, 22 assisted tackles, 39 total tackles 1 deflection from a pass breakup, and 1 quarterback hurry in 2025. I gave Jalen Catalon an A- grade in man coverage, an A- in zone coverage, and an A0 in press coverage. I got a 91/99 potential grade on Jalen Catalon meaning he could have a higher ceiling than Brisker if he can stay healthy.
- Other Chicago Bears Selections
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Miami Dolphins: Febechi Nwaiwu, RG, Oklahoma
- Miami drafts a right guard to push Jamaree Salyer for the right guard job. Oklahoma right guard Febechi Nwaiwu makes a lot of sense here.
- The 6-4 326 lb Febechi Nwaiwu has the versatility to play right guard as well as center, but right guard is a natural fit. Febechi Nwaiwu has the pass blocking, pass blocking strength, pass blocking footwork, run blocking, run blocking strength, run blocking footwork, and zone blocking. Febechi Nwaiwu still needs to improve his pancake blockig, pull blocking, and cut blocking.
- Other Miami Dolphins Selections
Buffalo Bills: J.C. Davis, LT, Illinois
- Buffalo is going to roll with Alec Anderson and Austin Corbett competing for the left guard job. Dee Alford is going to repace Taron Johnson at nickel cornerback. Drafting a young left tackle that can start out as a swing tackle and develop into a successor to Dion Dawkins is the pick here in the third round. J.C. Davis started 49 consecutive games at left tackle at New Mexico and Illinois over the past four years.
- The 6-4 335 lb J.C. Davis has the run blockng, run blocking strength, run blocking footwork, and pull blockinng that you want in a left tackle. He's got to develop as a pass blocker and zone blocker, but two years behind Dion Dawkins could fix his pass blocking. At the very worst, he's a very good swing tackle for Buffalo.
- Other Buffalo Bills Selections
Dallas Cowboys: Sieh Bangura, RB, Ohio 
- Dallas drafts a change of pace running back to compliment Javonte Williams. Ohio running back Siegh Bangura is the best overall player on my board.
- The 6-0 216 lb Sieh Bangura is my fifth best running back in this years draft. He might be the best running back at trucking defenders since Frank Gore or Derrick Henry that's how exceptional Bangura is at trucking defenders even when you get his hands on him he runs through defenders. Sieh Bangura had 241 carries, 1,392 rushing yards, 15 rushing touchdowns, 13 receptions, 77 receiving yards, 254 touches, 1,469 total yards, and 15 total touchdowns in 2025. Bangura has amazing ball security too with 0 fumbles or fumles lost in five seasons. He spent his first three years at Ohio, transferred to Minnesota in 2024, and returned to Ohio in 2025. The speed and ball carrier vision that you want in a bellcow is there.
- Other Dallas Cowboys Selections
Los Angeles Rams: Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
- Los Angeles gets a wide receiver. I got seven wide receivers with a 90/99 potential still on the board. Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. is a guy I ranked at 109 overall, but he's gained even more traction then Elijah Sarratt. I don't think the Los Angeles Rams pass on him if he gets to this point in the third round. Omar Cooper Jr. would be a day 1 starter on the Los Angeles Rams. I got three wide receivers Malachi Fields, Josh Cameron, and Ted Hurst ranked ahead of Omar Cooper Jr. because those three wide receiver do more for me on the route tree. Omar Cooper Jr. did crush it at Indiana's Pro Day though. Any wide receiver with a 90 potential or higher is a guy with borderline Pro Bowl upside.
- The 6-0 199 lb Omar Cooper Jr. had 69 receptions, 937 reciving ytards, and 13 receiving touchdowns in 2025. Omar Cooper Jr. can run 20/30 routes on the route tree. There's three wide receivers I like more than Omar Cooper Jr., but with Indiana going 16-0, there is no way I see Omar Cooper Jr. falling to day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft.
- Other Los Angeles Rams Selections
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Miami Dolphins: R Mason Thomas, RE, Oklahoma
- Miami drafts their sack artist of the future here. R Mason Thomas played 4-3 right end at Oklahoma this past season and had a top 30 visit with the Miami Dolphins.
- The 6-2 241 lb R Mason Thomas had 18 solo tackles, 8 assisted tackles, 26 total tackles, 9.5 tackles for a loss, 6.5 sacks, 3 quarterback hurries, 2 forced fumbles, 1 deflection from a pass breakup, and 1 fumble recovery which resulted in a 71 yard defensive touchdown in 2025. I'm not sure if R Mason Thomas would play 4-3 right end despite his size due to his natural tendency to place his hand in the dirt. R Mason Thomas can sack the quarterback or stop the run.
- Other Miami Dolphins Selections
New England Patriots: Malachi Fields, WR, Notre Dame 
- New England drafts a wide receiver that has the upside to develop into a wide receiver with Pro Bowl upside. Malachi Fields is one of the biggest wide receivers in this draft. He took over for Notre Dame in the game where I saw Notre Dame crush Pittsburgh in person when College Gameday went to Acrisure Stadium. This is a top five wide receiver at catching the football in traffic with a wide catch radius and exceptional body control. Malachi Fields may be the best wide receiver at catching the football in traffic in the entire draft.
- The 6-4 218 lb Malachi Fields had 36 receptions, 630 receiving yards, and 5 receiving touchdowns in 2025. Malachi Fields ran a 4.61 40-yard dash. Some have Fields in the top 50, but I got Malachi Fields getting picked by New England at the end of the third round. Malachi Fields ran 21/30 routes on the route tree.
- Other New England Patriots Selections
Seattle Seahawks: Jack Kelly, 3-4 ROLB, BYU 
- Seattle gets a pass rusher to stash and develop. BYU outside linebacker Jack Kelly can play 4-3 right outside linebacker, 4-3 middle linebacker, 4-3 left outside linebacker, 3-4 right outside linebacker, 3-4 middle linebacker, and 3-4 left outside linebacker. A two year captain at BYU that diagnoses plays quickly. Dominated the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl.
- The 6-1 246 lb Jack Kelly had 42 solo tackles, 13 assisted tackles, 55 total tackles, 13.5 tackles for a loss, 10 sacks, 7 quarterback hurries, 2 forced fumbles, 1 deflection from a pass breakup, and 1 touchdown in 2025. Jack Kelly can rush the passer, stop the run, or drop back into coverage. Kelly is a complete linebacker with the skill set of a pass rusher making him an ideal 3-4 outside linebacker.
- Other Seattle Seahawks Selections
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Minnesota Vikings: Landon Robinson, 3-4 LE, Navy
- Minnesota got this compensation pick at 97. Minnesota got this compensation pick when the Seattle Seahawks signed quarterback Sam Darnold in Free Agency last year.
- The 5-11 291 lb Landon Robinson had 31 solo tackles, 33 assisted tackles, 64 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for a loss, 7 quarterback hurries, and 6.5 sacks in 2025. Landon Robinson can play 4-3 defensive tackle, 3-4 right end, 3-4 nose tackle, and 3-4 left end with his versatility.
- Landon Robinson is a violent player with the pass rushing and run stuffing presence on the interior. Minnesota would have Jalen Redmond at 3-4 right end. Landon Robinson could beat out either Levi Drake Rodriguez for the 3-4 nose tackle job or Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins for the 3-4 left end job. Someone on New England compared Landon Robinson to Aaron Donald calling him the best Aaron Donald clone in years. He's not getting out of the top 100 after a dominant 2026 East West Shrine Bowl.
- Other Minnesota Vikings Selections
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Philadelphia Eagles: Caleb Banks, 3-4 LE, Florida
- Philadelphia got this compensation pick at 98 after Milton Williams left the Philadelphia Eagles to sign with the New England Patriots last offseason. Milton Williams was the only player to play in the last two Super Bowls. Philadelphia drafts a Milton Williams replacement with 2023 seventh round pick Moro Ojomo entering the final year of his rookie deal.
- Philadelphia drafts a 3-4 left end here. Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks can play anywhere on the interior whether that is at 3-4 right end, 3-4 nose tackle, or 3-4 left end. Philadelphia drafts Caleb Banks as a Moro Ojomo replacement to pair with Jalen Carter at 3-4 right end and Jordan Davis at 3-4 nose tackle.
- The 6-6 327 lb Caleb Banks had 2 solo tackles, 4 assisted tackles, 6 total tackles, and 1 tackle for a loss in 3 games in 2025 before a season ending injury. Caleb Banks dominated the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl to the poinnt where he got first round consideration. I love his pass rushing and run stuffing. His medicals are why he dropped to the third round.
- Other Philadelphia Eagles Selections
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Pittsburgh Steelers: Joey Aguilar, QB, Tennessee
- Pittsburgh got this compensation pick at 99 for losing left tackle Dan Moore Jr. who I had a seventh round grade on. Dan Moore Jr. signed with the Tennessee Titans in Free Agency last year in 2025 getting a 5 year contract worth $100 million paying him 20 million for year.
- There is one player with a potential grade of 91/99 still on the board. For me that is Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar. I got Fernando Mendoza at 99/99 for potential, but his floor is closer to 69 then a 79. I got Diego Pavia at a 93/99 for potential, but his floor is under 70 just like Mendoza possibly lower. Carson Beck is a guy that I have a 91/99 potential grade on with possibly a floor grade of 71/99. I got a 66/99 floor grade on Joey Aguilar, but a 91/99 for potential. I had a 90/99 on Ty Simpson for potential and a 70/99 on Simpson for Floor I had a 71/99 for floor on Jalen Milroe last year. Joey Aguilar has a higher ceiling than Mason Rudolph and Will Howard, but a lower floor. He's also older than Will Howard. This is a roll of the dice pick that has a 20 percent chance of working out and an 80 percent chance of not working out. I had a floor grade of 71/99 on both Mason Rudolph and Will Howard coming out of college, but also had a 85/99 potential grade on both players with both guys maxing out at an 85 the lowest grade I give a starter. I had an 86 on Kenny Pickett coming out of Pittsburgh.
- The 6-3 225 lb Joey Aguilar had 3,757 passng yards, 33 passing touchdowns, and 10 interceptions as a first-year starter at Appalachian State in 2023. Joey Aguilar had 3,003 passing yards, 23 passing touchdowns, dn 14 interceptions at Appalachian State in 2024. Joey Aguilar had 3,565 passing yards, 24 passing touchdowns, and 10 interceptions at Tennessee in 2025. Joey Aguilar has a better deep ball than Ty Simpson in my honest opinion, but his decision making can get him in trouble sometimes.
- Joey Aguilar went from Juco to Appalachian State to Tennessee. He interviewed well at the 2026 NFL Combine talking about Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, Josh Allen. He also talked about Bible Study before going 48/55 on throws at Tennessee's Pro Day. Joey Aguilar took snaps under center, in shotgun, and completed some play action passes. Joey Aguilar went through all 6 progressions on one completion versus Georgia. Joey Aguilar could be this years Dillon Gabriel if he's thrown into the fire as a rookie. If Pittsburgh gives him time to develop he could blossom down the road once Aaron Rodgers retires. He could beat out Howard in 2027 or 2028, but will probably need to be a scout team quarterback as a rookie with his low floor. His floor being so low and the fact that he's 25 before week 1 is why most NFL teams have him in day 3, but he's my 91st best overall player in this draft, one spot ahead of Ty Simpson on my big board. He's raw, but worth the gamble if you think you can mold this raw quarterback into a quarterback with a Pro Bowl ceiling.
- Other Pittsburgh Steelers Selections
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Jacksonville Jaguars: Kyle Louis, ROLB, Pittsburgh
- Detroit got this compensation pick for losing Aaron Glenn to the New York Jets. Detroit traded two 2026 third round picks to Jacksonville to move up for Isaac TeSlaa in the 2025 NFL Draft.
- Ventrell Miller enters the final year of his rookie deal. Foyesade Oloukoun played 4-3 right outside linebacker in 2025, but will move to 4-3 middle linebacker with Devin Lloyd leaving. I like Ventrell Miller, but I love Kyle Louis and think he has a much higher ceiling than Ventrell Miler, who may break out in the final year of his rookie deal.
- One of the best pass rushers in the 2026 NFL Draft that isn't getting enough attention is Pittsburgh linebacker Kyle Louis who can be utilized as an edge rusher, run stuffer, and a coverage linebacker. He is extremely versatile as well.
- Kyle Louis can play 4-3 right end, 4-3 left end, 4-3 right outside linebacker, 4-3 middle linebacker, 4-3 left outside linebacker, 3-4 right outside linebacker, 3-4 middle linebacker, and 3-4 left outside linebacker. This guy is like a swiss army knife in the front 7 that Pitt head coach Pat Narduzzi operates. I said this back in August of 2025 by the way.
- The 5-11 224 Kyle Louis had 45 solo tackles, 56 assisted tackles, 101 total tackles, 15.5 tackles for a loss, 9 quarterback hurries, 7 sacks, 4 interceptions, 3 deflections from pass breakups, 1 forced fumble, 1 blocked kick/punt, and 1 defensive touchdown on a pick 6 in 2024. Kyle Louis had 43 solo tackles, 38 assisted tackles, 81 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for a loss, 3 sacks, 3 quarterback hurries, 3 deflections from pass breakups, 2 interceptions, 2 fumble recoveries, and 1 forced fumble in 2025.
- Kyle Louis also got an A+ grade in both man coverage and zone coverage which is pretty rare for a linebacker when first watching his tape in 2024. I had a 93/99 potential on Kyle Louis in the preseason. I now have a 90/99 potential grade on Louis. Kyle Louis was one of the standouts at the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl. Kyle Louis can rush the passer, stop the run, and cover at an elite level giving you a linebacker that plays like a defensive back on passing downs.
- Other Jacksonville Jaguars Selections
