The 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh is just weeks away, and while the projected top pick, quarterback Fernando Mendoza, has chosen to celebrate in his hometown of Miami, a strong contingent of future stars will be in the building. With Mendoza declining his invite, the spotlight shifts to the 16 other elite prospects who have accepted, all of whom are projected as potential first-round selections according to top analysts.

Leading the pack is Ohio State, which will have a remarkable five players in attendance: Arvell Reese, Caleb Downs, Kayden McDonald, Sonny Styles, and Carnell Tate. Alabama and Miami will each be represented by two players, with the Crimson Tide's Ty Simpson and Kaydn Proctor and the Hurricanes' Rueben Bain Jr. and Francis Mauigoa set to walk the stage.

An interesting storyline to watch involves quarterback Ty Simpson. While he received a coveted invite, mock drafts currently project him as a potential early second-round pick, making him the attendee most likely to wait until Day 2 to hear his name called. His journey will be one of the compelling narratives of the first night.

The action kicks off on April 23rd at 8:00 p.m. EST from Point State Park and Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. As these athletes prepare for the biggest night of their lives, the energy will be electric, marking the beginning of their professional journeys and the next chapter for the franchises that call their names.