With the NFL Scouting Combine in the rearview mirror, the league’s offseason evaluation process has entered one of its most fascinating stages: the reshuffling of mock drafts. The workouts, interviews, and measurements in Indianapolis often reshape how analysts view the top prospects, and the latest mock draft from FOX Sports reflects just how much perceptions can shift after teams get a closer look at this year’s talent pool. Athletic testing numbers, positional drills, and team meetings frequently elevate certain prospects while raising questions about others, making post-combine projections some of the most intriguing of the draft cycle.
RELATED: Top 10 prospects after the NFL scouting combine
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In this updated projection, several defensive playmakers rise into prominent positions, underscoring how valuable edge rushers and versatile defenders remain in today’s pass-heavy NFL. At the same time, offensive talent—particularly at quarterback and along the offensive line—continues to draw attention from teams looking to build long-term stability. The mock draft also highlights a group of prospects whose combine performances reinforced what evaluators had already seen on tape: elite athletic traits paired with production at the college level.
While mock drafts are ultimately projections rather than guarantees, they provide insight into how teams might prioritize roster needs and value certain skill sets. As the draft approaches, these early forecasts help frame the conversation about which rising stars could hear their names called first on draft night.
1. Fernando Mendoza, QB (to Las Vegas Raiders)
Fernando Mendoza
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (QB11) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images
Fernando Mendoza gives the Raiders a poised and intelligent quarterback prospect who thrives when the game speeds up around him. He’s comfortable working through progressions and has the arm talent to attack all areas of the field, especially off play-action. Mendoza’s calm pocket presence and leadership traits make him a natural fit for a franchise looking to stabilize the position long term. If developed properly, he could grow into the kind of steady starter Las Vegas has been searching for.
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2. Arvell Reese, Edge (to New York Jets)
Arvell Reese
Ohio State linebacker Vell Reese (LB20) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Arvell Reese brings explosive athleticism and relentless pursuit to the Jets’ defensive front. His first step off the edge consistently stresses offensive tackles, and he has the closing speed to finish plays in the backfield. Reese is still refining his pass-rush counters, but his motor and physical tools already flash at a high level. In New York’s aggressive defensive scheme, he could quickly become a disruptive presence.
3. David Bailey, Edge (to Arizona Cardinals)
David Bailey
Texas Tech defensive lineman David Bailey (DL31) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
David Bailey offers the Cardinals a powerful edge defender who blends size, strength, and surprising agility. He’s particularly effective setting the edge against the run while still generating pressure as a pass rusher. Bailey’s physical play style fits well with a defense trying to rebuild toughness in the trenches. With further technical development, he could become a cornerstone piece of Arizona’s front seven.
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4. Rueben Bain Jr., Edge (to Tennessee Titans)
Rueben Bain Jr.
Miami defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. (DL32) on the SiriusXM NFL Radio set during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Rueben Bain Jr. gives the Titans a dynamic pass rusher with the burst and leverage to win quickly off the snap. His ability to bend around the edge and collapse the pocket makes him a constant threat on passing downs. Bain’s intensity and physicality align well with Tennessee’s defensive identity. If he continues refining his hand usage, he could evolve into one of the defense’s most impactful players.
5. Caleb Downs, S (to New York Giants)
Caleb Downs
Ohio State defensive back Caleb Downs (DB34) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images
Caleb Downs projects as a versatile defensive playmaker who can impact the game from multiple spots in the secondary. His instincts and range allow him to cover ground quickly, whether he’s breaking on the ball or supporting against the run. Downs also brings strong football IQ and leadership qualities that stand out on film. For the Giants, he could become the type of safety who anchors the back end of the defense.
6. Spencer Fano, OT (to Cleveland Browns)
Spencer Fano
Utah offensive lineman Spencer Fano (OL22) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Spencer Fano offers the Browns a technically sound offensive tackle with the mobility to thrive in both pass protection and the run game. His footwork and balance help him mirror edge rushers while maintaining a strong base. Fano also shows the toughness and consistency teams look for in long-term starters along the offensive line. In Cleveland’s run-heavy offense, he could quickly become an important piece up front.
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7. Sonny Styles, LB (to Washington Commanders)
Sonny Styles
Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Sonny Styles brings rare size and athletic versatility to the Commanders’ linebacker group. He moves fluidly in space and has the range to cover tight ends or track ball carriers sideline to sideline. Styles’ physicality also shows up when attacking downhill against the run. With his blend of length and speed, he has the potential to be a modern defensive chess piece.
8. Jeremiyah Love, RB (to New Orleans Saints)
Jeremiyah Love
Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love (RB11) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Jeremiyah Love adds explosiveness and big-play ability to the Saints’ backfield. His acceleration through the hole and ability to change direction make him dangerous whenever he touches the ball. Love also shows promise as a receiving threat, giving him value on all three downs. In New Orleans, he could develop into a versatile offensive weapon.
9. Jordyn Tyson, WR (to Kansas City Chiefs)
Jordyn Tyson
Arizona State wideout Jordyn Tyson (WO40) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images
Jordyn Tyson would give the Chiefs another dynamic receiver capable of stretching the field. He’s a smooth route runner with the body control to make difficult catches along the sideline or in traffic. Tyson’s ability to create separation pairs well with a creative passing attack. In Kansas City’s offense, he could quickly become a reliable target with big-play potential.
RELATED: Top 40-yard dash times at 2026 NFL combine
10. Keldric Faulk, Edge (to Cincinnati Bengals)
Keldric Faulk
Auburn defensive lineman Keldric Faulk (DL38) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Keldric Faulk brings length, strength, and disruptive energy to the Bengals’ defensive line. He uses his size well to overwhelm blockers and collapse the pocket from the edge. Faulk’s versatility also allows him to slide along the front depending on the defensive look. With continued refinement as a pass rusher, he could grow into a key contributor for Cincinnati’s defense.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (QB11) looks on with his fellow quarterbacks during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The post-combine mock draft from FOX Sports offers a snapshot of how the league currently values this year’s prospects. With pro days and team visits still ahead, the order may change again—but the buzz surrounding this emerging class of talent is only beginning to grow.
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