NFL Draft Order 2026 is becoming clearer as the league moves closer to draft week, but several first-round picks remain tied to recent trades and potential last-minute deals
Front offices across the NFL continue exploring opportunities to move up the board, making this one of the most intriguing draft classes in recent years.
The current first-round order features the Las Vegas Raiders holding the No. 1 overall pick, followed by the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals. Several playoff contenders also own extra first-round selections thanks to blockbuster trades completed over the past year.
Latest NFL Draft Order 2026
The top of the first round currently looks like this:
| Pick | Team | Projected Selection |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Las Vegas Raiders | QB Arch Manning |
| 2 | New York Jets | EDGE T.J. Parker |
| 3 | Arizona Cardinals | WR Jordyn Tyson |
| 4 | Cleveland Browns | OT Kadyn Proctor |
| 5 | New Orleans Saints | QB LaNorris Sellers |
| 6 | Tennessee Titans | CB Jermod McCoy |
| 7 | New York Giants | EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. |
| 8 | Carolina Panthers | WR Carnell Tate |
| 9 | Indianapolis Colts | TE Max Klare |
| 10 | New England Patriots | OT Francis Mauigoa |
The complete first-round order reflects previous trades, with several selections changing hands before the draft.
Biggest First-Round Trade Updates
Several blockbuster trades have reshaped the NFL Draft Order 2026.
- The New York Giants own two first-round selections, including Cincinnati’s pick.
- The Kansas City Chiefs hold an additional first-rounder acquired from the Rams.
- The Dallas Cowboys also own multiple Round 1 picks after previous trade agreements.
- The Cleveland Browns possess Jacksonville’s first-round selection in addition to their own.
These extra picks give contenders more flexibility to draft elite prospects or trade up for premium talent.
Teams Expected to Be Aggressive
Several franchises could become major players on draft night.
Las Vegas Raiders
Holding the No. 1 overall pick gives the Raiders complete control of the draft. Whether they select a franchise quarterback or entertain trade offers, every team behind them will be watching closely.
New York Giants
With two first-round picks, New York has the flexibility to address multiple roster needs or package selections to move even higher if a top prospect starts sliding.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs continue building around their championship core. An extra first-round pick creates valuable options, especially if they target an impact receiver or offensive lineman.
Top Prospects Linked to Early Picks
While no selections are official before draft night, several prospects consistently appear near the top of expert projections.
- Fernando Mendoza (QB)
- Francis Mauigoa (OT)
- T.J. Parker (EDGE)
- Rueben Bain Jr. (EDGE)
- Carnell Tate (WR)
Player projections continue changing as teams finalize evaluations and conduct private workouts.
Why the Draft Order Could Still Change
History shows the first round rarely unfolds exactly as expected.
Teams often:
- Trade into the top 10.
- Swap picks to acquire additional selections.
- Move up for a franchise quarterback.
- Trade down to build long-term depth.
Because of this, the NFL Draft Order 2026 could look significantly different by the time Commissioner Roger Goodell announces the first pick.
Final Thoughts
The NFL Draft Order 2026 is already shaping one of the league’s most exciting offseasons. With multiple teams holding extra first-round picks and trade rumors continuing to circulate, fans should expect plenty of surprises before the opening selection is made. Whether your team is rebuilding or chasing another Super Bowl, draft night promises to reshape the NFL landscape.
FAQs
Who has the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft Order 2026?
The Las Vegas Raiders currently own the first overall selection.
Which team has multiple first-round picks?
Teams including the New York Giants, Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys, and Cleveland Browns hold multiple first-round selections because of previous trades.
Can the first-round order still change?
Yes. Teams can trade first-round picks until and during the draft, so the order can change before each selection is announced.
Which position is expected to go first?
Quarterback remains the position most frequently projected at No. 1, though edge rusher and offensive tackle are also premium positions depending on team needs.
When is the 2026 NFL Draft?
The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to begin on April 23, 2026, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
for more league analysis, check out our <a href=”https://theussports.com/nfl-power-rankings-2026/”>NFL Power Rankings 2026</a> to see which teams are expected to dominate the upcoming season
