


The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft is now in the books. Speculation can be put to bed, but there is still a lot to address on Day 2. As teams work towards constructing a Super Bowl caliber roster, which positional needs remain?
Among the notable prospects taken on Day 2 in 2025 were Defensive Rookie of the Year Carson Schwesinger, Seahawks safety Nick Emmanwori, running backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson, quarterback Tyler Shough, and tight end Harold Fannin Jr..
Here is the biggest need for each team entering Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft:
The Bengals will make their first selection at No. 41 overall after trading their first-round pick in exchange for Dexter Lawrence. The team needs to add another cornerback regardless of where Dax Hill plays next season. If he lines up in the slot, they'll need another boundary option, and vice versa. Offensive guard, safety and edge rusher are also considerations.
The linebackers struggled last year, but the team invested two fairly early picks at the position, so the odds of running it back and focusing on other areas are high. If anything, it would make the most sense to add a veteran.
Quarterback is the obvious answer, but there are no options to realistically address the position. Safety is next on the list, followed by center.
According to TruMedia, the Browns allowed the most pressure (45.5%) of any team last season. They have been active in rebuilding the offensive line, trading for Tytus Howard, signing Elgton Jenkins and Zion Johnson, and drafting Spencer Fano.
The Ravens turned over essentially their entire coaching staff, but head coach Jesse Minter and defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver are familiar faces within the organization.
The Ravens lost key depth at tight end, and running back Derrick Henry is not getting any younger. But the defense could use help at every level -- defensive line, linebacker, cornerback and safety. Minter comes from Los Angeles, where the Chargers made the most of the talent on their roster.
The Steelers are looking at a quarterback battle between Mason Rudolph and Will Howard right now. The belief is that Aaron Rodgers will eventually return, but a final decision has still not been made. Defensive line, linebacker and safety are all positions of need for the organization.
The Colts re-signed quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce to lucrative extensions, which drained much of the team's resources this offseason.
Indianapolis addressed its biggest need in 2025 with cornerback Sauce Gardner, but the defensive front seven needs more attention to support an aging group. Green Bay traded for the Colts' most productive linebacker, Zaire Franklin, and the position had already been a weakness.
Travis Hunter Jr. is expected to move to cornerback full-time next season, which is likely the best use of his talent. Brian Thomas Jr., Parker Washington and Jakobi Meyers form a versatile and talented group.
The offensive line could use some fine-tuning, but defensive line and safety remain the biggest needs. Linebacker is also a consideration after Devin Lloyd departed in free agency.
Houston could target a building block or two along the defensive front, either at edge rusher or defensive tackle. The Texans have already constructed one of the league's most complete rosters.
The Titans are suddenly flush with skill talent after adding Carnell Tate. As Tennessee builds around Cam Ward, the team needs to address its interior offensive line. A below-average group will only put more strain on JC Latham's development.
If a cornerback who can add depth and provide an off-ramp from the big deals handed out in free agency is available on Day 2, that should be an option as well.
Buffalo has functional play at every position. Linebacker may be the biggest need, as the group has struggled to stay healthy. Cole Bishop has not always been the most reliable at safety, but the presence of Chauncey Gardner-Johnson could provide a calming influence.
They could also look to replace offensive guard David Edwards, who signed with the Saints in free agency.
Miami has a glut of needs, so it would be irresponsible to enter the draft targeting a specific position. The focus should be on taking the best player available, with the possible exception of running back.
