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NFL Nation
With only three games remaining in the 2025 NFL season, the focus will soon shift to the offseason. Let’s take a look at teams with a top-10 selection in the 2026 draft, starting April 23 in Pittsburgh.
The Raiders hold the No. 1 pick for the first time since 2007 and appear ready to select a quarterback. yet, could they consider trading that top spot? The rest of the top 10 also invites speculation. What steps can the Titans take to best support quarterback Cam Ward — the No. 1 pick from 2025 — at No. 4? Will the Chiefs eye a bold move with their rare top-10 selection? What strategy makes sense for the Giants at No. 5?
We asked our NFL Nation reporters to tackle one significant question for each team in the top 10. Let’s explore. (For more insights on these 10 picks and the rest of Round 1, don’t miss Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest mock draft.)
Jump to a team:
ARI | CIN | CLE | KC | LV
NO | NYG | NYJ | TEN | WSH
Are the Raiders considering a trade for the No. 1 pick?
I don’t think so. It’s difficult to envision the Raiders passing on Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, especially since ownership, including Tom Brady, witnessed the College Football Playoff National Championship.
After a challenging 2025 season for Geno Smith, the Raiders need to bring in a young quarterback who can develop alongside running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers. Mendoza has displayed toughness, accuracy, and the ability to perform under pressure—qualities that Las Vegas would truly desire from their quarterback. Considering the current state of the organization, there’s no reason for the Raiders to complicate this decision. — Ryan McFadden
What is the Jets’ likely strategy for addressing quarterback?
They likely won’t draft a quarterback here unless the Raiders bypass Mendoza. Instead, it seems the Jets will opt for a comprehensive approach: acquiring one or two veterans (perhaps Malik Willis or Kirk Cousins), releasing Justin Fields, and drafting a quarterback with either the No. 16 or No. 33 pick.
The later pick could target Alabama’s Ty Simpson or Ole Miss’ Trinidad Chambliss. This plan would address both immediate and future needs. And if the Jets can’t find a quarterback for the long haul, they might set their sights on 2027 and begin a “March for Arch” initiative. — Rich Cimini
Which area needs more focus this offseason?
Definitely offense. The Cardinals invested heavily in free agency last offseason to revamp the defense, but it underperformed, giving up 40 or more points four times and 37 points in two other games. yet, the offense requires upgrades in various areas to help Arizona bounce back after a 3-14 season, starting with the offensive line.
At least two positions—guard and right tackle—require attention. also, acquiring another receiver to pair with Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson would be advantageous. — Josh Weinfuss
How can the Titans best support Cam Ward with this draft pick?
although it’s on the opposing side of the ball, the ideal move is to add an impactful pass rusher to work alongside defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, helping to create advantageous field positions. A strong, turnover-forcing defense would provide Ward and the offense with shorter fields and more scoring chances. The Titans ranked 15th in pass rush win rate in 2025, and Simmons’ 11 sacks were six more than the next closest player (Jihad Ward). — Turron Davenport
Given the Giants’ numerous needs, will they simply follow a “best player available” strategy?
The Giants could benefit from another offensive playmaker, offensive lineman, defensive lineman, linebacker, cornerback, or safety. They certainly have options. With new coach John Harbaugh as the prominent voice, anything is on the table. yet, it seems likely he will concentrate on strengthening the trenches (similar to his approach in Baltimore 18 years ago), particularly since he wants to establish a “more physical team.” — Jordan Raanan
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Aside from quarterback, which other needs can the Browns address with their two first-round picks?
Offensive line and wide receiver. The Browns’ offensive line is aging and slipping. With only one Week 1 starter under contract for the 2026 season, general manager Andrew Berry noted that there will likely be significant changes in that group this offseason.
The Browns also require a dynamic playmaker on the perimeter. Cleveland’s pass catchers accounted for the second-fewest receiving yards in the NFL (3,152) in 2025, trailing only the Jets. — Daniel Oyefusi
After the Commanders fielded the NFL’s oldest roster in 2025, which position needs the most renovation?
Washington’s offense has a solid foundation, thanks to its offensive line and quarterback Jayden Daniels. Yet, the defense lacks youth, speed, and athleticism—particularly on the edge.
The Commanders currently have just one rotational defensive lineman under 28 years old. Their top pass rusher, Dorance Armstrong, suffered an ACL tear in October. Realistically, every segment of the defense needs enhancement, especially after the team hires a new coordinator. — John Keim
Are the Saints more likely to pursue a potential successor to linebacker Demario Davis or defensive end Cameron Jordan with this draft choice?
The Saints probably won’t restrict themselves; offensive needs will be prioritized. If they opt for a defensive player with a high pick, it’s more probable they will seek a defensive end to team with Chase Young and Carl Granderson rather than draft a linebacker.
New Orleans hasn’t selected a linebacker in the first round since Stephone Anthony at No. 31 in 2015. In that same timeframe, they have chosen four defensive linemen, including defensive ends Payton Turner at No. 28 in 2021 and Marcus Davenport at No. 14 in 2018 (through a trade-up with the Packers). — Katherine Terrell
If Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love is still available, could the Chiefs make a bold move to improve their run game?
This is certainly an attractive option. The Chiefs are in dire need of bolstering their rushing offense, and Love has showcased remarkable playmaking skills.
yet, the smarter strategy for Kansas City would be to focus on acquiring the best available pass rusher with this pick. Their pass rush struggled in 2025 (ranking tied for 22nd with just 35 total sacks), and defensive tackle Chris Jones will turn 31 this summer. Finding another capable player to join Jones and George Karlaftis is more pressing than selecting Love. — Nate Taylor
What insights can we gain from history regarding the positions Duke Tobin and Zac Taylor might target in Round 1?
The Bengals haven’t utilized a top-10 pick on defense since 2010, when they drafted USC linebacker Keith Rivers at No. 9. yet, they can’t afford to repeat that trend this time.
The team needs impactful players on defense. Given the significant investments in Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins on offense, securing a pass rusher or elite defender is the logical choice for a team that has struggled defensively in recent seasons. Cincinnati ranked last in pass rush win rate this season, tied with Chicago. — Ben Baby
