The NFL offseason is in full swing, with free agency seeing several big names on the move. Teams have addressed several needs, while also having new needs open up. Free agency not only changes the roster, but it also changes the approach for general managers in the NFL Draft. Front offices and pundits alike have a much clearer picture for the 2026 NFL Draft. Several of the teams picking at the top of the draft board have made improvements, but still have work to do. How will said teams improve their roster in this post-free agency 2026 NFL mock draft?
2026 NFL Mock Draft: Post-Free Agency Picks 1-10
1. Las Vegas Raiders– Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Nothing changes here, as Fernando Mendoza is the obvious pick for Las Vegas. The Heisman Trophy winner possesses an excellent combination of size, accuracy, and velocity. Mendoza gives the Raiders their much-needed franchise quarterback.
2. New York Jets- Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State
The Jets have made several improvements on defense in free agency, but still need a premier pass rusher. Arvell Reese has a rare blend of size and speed and is versatile in alignment. He brings immediate value as both a run defender and a pass rusher.
3. Arizona Cardinals– Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami
Arizona has a serious need at right tackle. Fortunately for the Cardinals, they get Francis Mauigoa, who has emerged as the top tackle prospect in recent weeks. Mauigoa is an elite run blocker who has improved at pass blocking, posting an 87.0 PFF grade in that department in 2025. Arizona fortifies its offensive line for a top quarterback prospect in 2027.
4. Tennessee Titans- Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami
The Titans addressed the pass rush by trading for Jermaine Johnson, but have the opportunity to take an elite edge rusher in Rueben Bain Jr. Bain is an explosive athlete who excels at defending the run. His speed and power allow him to consistently get pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
5. New York Giants– Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
With Wan’Dale Robinson departing in free agency, the Giants need a wide receiver alongside Malik Nabers. New York takes Jordyn Tyson, who’s excellent after the catch and is a crisp route runner. He checks all the boxes of an NFL receiver, although injury concerns could impact his draft stock.
6. Cleveland Browns- Makai Lemon, WR, USC
Cleveland needs both a left tackle and a true WR1. The good news for the Browns is they have two first-round picks, so they can address tackle later on. For now, Cleveland takes Makai Lemon, a dangerous receiving threat on all three levels. His acceleration after the catch and route-running technique gives the Browns a premier receiver they desperately need.
7. Washington Commanders– Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
The Commanders could go defense here, but don’t pass up the opportunity to take Jeremiyah Love. Love is an elusive runner with legit breakaway speed. Along with Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin, Washington has a dynamic offensive trio.
8. New Orleans Saints- Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
After bringing in Travis Etienne, the Saints can turn their attention to wide receiver. Chris Olave is fresh off a career year, but New Orleans needs another reliable pass catcher. Carnell Tate is the definition of reliable, as he has consistent hands while excelling at contested catches.
9. Kansas City Chiefs– David Bailey, DE, Texas Tech
Like New Orleans, the Chiefs also addressed their need at running back in free agency. Kansas City needs to bolster its pass rush, so it picks up David Bailey. Bailey is the best pure pass rusher in this class, having 14.5 sacks in 2025. He has incredible bend and closing speed while also improving as a run defender throughout his collegiate career.
10. Cincinnati Bengals- Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
The Bengals have made some signings to improve a woeful defense, but still have a way to go. They take the best overall prospect in this class, Caleb Downs. Downs has elite instincts who can play man coverage, plug into the run fit, and make tackles. He is the best option for Cincinnati to address several defensive needs at once.