2026 NFL Draft: First-Round Recap—Mendoza to Raiders, Simpson to Rams, and the Trades That Reshaped the Board

The 2026 NFL Draft opened Thursday night with teams addressing quarterback needs, bolstering defenses, and executing bold trades that reshaped the first-round landscape. The Las Vegas Raiders kicked off the proceedings by selecting Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick, while several clubs made aggressive moves to secure their preferred targets.

Quarterbacks and Running Backs Lead the Top Five

The Raiders made it official when they called Mendoza's name first, adding the former Indiana star to anchor their offense. The New York Jets followed at No. 2, selecting defensive end David Bailey, one of three first-rounders for the franchise. At No. 3, the Arizona Cardinals made history by taking Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, the highest-drafted running back since Saquon Barkley went second overall in 2018.

The Los Angeles Rams added to their quarterback room at No. 13, selecting Ty Simpson. However, head coach Sean McVay quickly clarified the team's hierarchy, stating "This is Matthew's team," signaling that incumbent starter Matthew Stafford remains the clear QB1.

Giants Double Down on Both Sides of the Ball

The New York Giants executed a balanced first-round strategy, addressing needs on both offense and defense. At No. 5, they selected Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese, then returned at No. 10 to take Miami offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa. Team officials expressed satisfaction with the haul, with one source telling ESPN the organization "couldn't do any better" with their dual selections.

Trade Activity Reshapes the Board

Several teams made aggressive moves to climb the draft board. The Kansas City Chiefs traded up to No. 6, acquiring the pick from the Cleveland Browns to select LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane, whom the organization viewed as a "top-5 guy." Cleveland used the compensation to select Spencer Fano at No. 9.

The Dallas Cowboys orchestrated two separate trades, first moving up one spot with the Miami Dolphins to grab Ohio State safety Caleb Downs at No. 11, then trading back from No. 20 to No. 23 in a deal with division rival Philadelphia. The Cowboys used the 23rd pick on UCF edge rusher Malachi Lawrence, while the Eagles moved up to select USC wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 20.

The Pittsburgh Steelers, hosting the draft, used the 21st pick to address their offensive line by selecting Arizona State tackle Max Iheanachor.

Jets Stock Up, Vikings Take Calculated Risk

The New York Jets made the most of their draft capital, selecting three players in the opening round. Beyond Bailey at No. 2, they added tight end Kenyon Sadiq at No. 16 and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. at No. 30. All three players competed in College Football Playoff teams during their collegiate careers.

The Minnesota Vikings made one of the night's riskiest selections, choosing Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks at No. 18 despite a foot injury that raises questions about his immediate availability. The bold move reflects the team's confidence in Banks' long-term upside.

Buccaneers Navigate Controversy

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected former Miami star Rueben Bain Jr. with the 15th pick, less than two weeks after news emerged that Bain was involved in a 2024 motor vehicle accident that resulted in a passenger's death. The team expressed confidence in the defensive lineman despite the off-field concerns.

Looking Ahead

As teams prepare for Day 2 of the draft, analysts have already begun evaluating the first-round selections. ESPN's panel of experts weighed in on the best and worst picks, standout trades, and surprising moves that defined the opening night. Meanwhile, scouts are already looking ahead to 2027, with Oregon's Dante Moore emerging as an early favorite among quarterback prospects in next year's class.

What we know: The 2026 first round featured aggressive quarterback investments, defensive playmakers, and multiple trades that allowed teams to target specific needs. What's unclear: How quickly injured prospects like Caleb Banks will contribute, and whether backup quarterback selections like Ty Simpson will develop into future starters or remain in supporting roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who went No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Las Vegas Raiders selected Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick.

Which running back made history in this draft?

Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love became the highest-drafted running back since Saquon Barkley in 2018 when the Cardinals took him third overall.

Which teams made the biggest trades?

The Chiefs traded up to No. 6 for cornerback Mansoor Delane, while the Eagles and Cowboys executed a division-rival swap that allowed Philadelphia to move up to No. 20 for wide receiver Makai Lemon.

How many first-round picks did the Jets have?

The New York Jets selected three players in the first round: David Bailey (No. 2), Kenyon Sadiq (No. 16), and Omar Cooper Jr. (No. 30).

Which pick carried the most risk?

The Vikings' selection of Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks at No. 18 is considered one of the boldest moves due to his foot injury, which raises questions about his readiness for the upcoming season.