The 2026 NFL Draft is almost upon us, and while the first overall pick seems locked in, the real intrigue starts right after. The Las Vegas Raiders are widely expected to select Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza with the top selection. But from the New York Jets at No. 2 onward, the draft board is a wide-open puzzle.

To capture all the potential drama, we're exploring three distinct paths for every team in the first round—except, of course, for the Raiders at No. 1. This mock draft exercise highlights the strategic decisions and talented prospects that will define the future of the league.

At the very top, Fernando Mendoza represents a fascinating prospect. The 6'5", 236-pound quarterback from Indiana isn't the flashiest scrambler, but he wins with elite precision, poise in the pocket, and a proven ability to dissect defenses. His transition to taking more snaps under center is the primary question mark for scouts, but his accuracy and command make him the clear top choice.

Meanwhile, a player like Ohio State's Arvell Reese embodies the modern defensive weapon. At 6'4" and 241 pounds, the linebacker/defensive end hybrid exploded onto the scene with rare fluidity and versatility. He's equally disruptive dropping into coverage or crashing the backfield, projecting as a future cornerstone for any defense looking to stifle both the pass and the run.

As teams finalize their big boards, the connections between collegiate stardom and professional success are being drawn. The decisions made on draft night will shape franchises for years to come, making every potential scenario worth considering as we count down to the main event.