The 2026 NFL Draft is just around the corner, and the excitement is palpable. As the combine has come and gone, CBS Sports has released its latest mock draft, offering a glimpse into the potential future of the league. What makes this draft particularly intriguing is the potential for two trades within the top 10, both of which involve stars from Ohio State. Let's dive into the latest projections and explore what makes this draft so compelling.
The Top Picks
Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza
What makes this pick particularly interesting is the potential for Mendoza to become the next big thing in the NFL. After an undefeated, national championship-winning season at Indiana, where he threw for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and six interceptions, Mendoza is a force to be reckoned with. CBS Sports predicts he will be the next QB1 in Las Vegas, and with good reason.New York Jets: LB Arvell Reese
Reese is a key piece to the Buckeyes' national championship squad, and his impact on the field is undeniable. With 112 tackles since 2024, including 69 combined tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks in the 2025 season, Reese earned All-American status. His ability to make an impact on both sides of the ball makes him a valuable asset for the Jets.Arizona Cardinals: EDGE David Bailey
Bailey has been soaring up draft boards, and his performance at the 2026 NFL combine further solidified his status as a top prospect. With a 4.5 40-yard-dash, 10-foot-9 broad jump, and 35-inch vertical, Bailey is a force to be reckoned with. On the field, he led Division I with 14.5 sacks and ranked among the top three in QB hurries and hits.Tennessee Titans: RB Jeremiyah Love
The last running back to be selected in the top five was Saquon Barkley in 2018, and Jeremiyah Love has the opportunity to do just that. Coming off a season where he rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns, Love has gained a reputation as the best running back in college football. CBS Sports predicts he will be the no-brainer RB1 in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Trades
One of the most intriguing aspects of this draft is the potential for two trades within the top 10. CBS Sports predicts that the Dallas Cowboys will move up from No. 12 to draft Ohio State LB Sonny Styles, and the New York Jets will trade up from No. 16 to select Ohio State S Caleb Downs via the Cincinnati Bengals.
Additional Insights
The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting one, with a mix of top prospects and potential trades. The Ohio State stars are certainly making a strong case for themselves, and the potential for two trades within the top 10 adds an extra layer of intrigue. As the draft approaches, the excitement is palpable, and the possibilities are endless.
Takeaway
The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting one, with a mix of top prospects and potential trades. The Ohio State stars are certainly making a strong case for themselves, and the potential for two trades within the top 10 adds an extra layer of intrigue. As the draft approaches, the excitement is palpable, and the possibilities are endless.
