Key Highlights
- CBS Sports and other outlets predict a potential trade between the New York Giants and Jets for their first-round picks.
- New York Giants are predicted to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza or linebacker Arvell Reese, while the Jets may also target a quarterback.
- Other teams’ top draft picks include Dante Moore for Las Vegas Raiders, Rueben Bain Jr. for Tennessee Titans, and Carnell Tate for Cleveland Browns.
- The New Orleans Saints are predicted to select edge rusher David Bailey or safety Caleb Downs.
NFL Mock Draft Roundup: Giants-Jets Trade Speculation
The NFL mock draft season is heating up, with various experts making predictions for the 2026 draft class. Among the most intriguing scenarios highlighted by multiple outlets is a potential trade between the New York Giants and Jets, where their first-round picks could be exchanged to secure top prospects.
New York Giants
According to CBS Sports, the New York Giants are predicted to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza from Indiana. However, Sports Illustrated suggests that if the Giants stand pat, linebacker Arvell Reese from Ohio State would make a strong case for being selected. Pro Football Focus and Sporting News both predict the Jets trading their No. 1 pick to the Giants in exchange for Mendoza.
Reese is described as an explosive edge defender who excels both on the ball and off, making him an attractive fit for the Giants’ front seven.
Meanwhile, Mendoza draws comparisons to Jared Goff, a quarterback this Jets coaching staff knows well from their time working together in Detroit. This potential trade would significantly impact the New York market, with fans eagerly anticipating how it unfolds.
Other Top Picks
The Las Vegas Raiders are predicted to select quarterback Dante Moore from Oregon by CBS Sports and Pro Football Focus. Sports Illustrated also sees Mendoza as a strong option for the Raiders. Meanwhile, Sporting News predicts the Jets may trade their first-round pick in exchange for Moore.
For the Tennessee Titans, both Sports Illustrated and Pro Football Focus predict them to select edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. from Miami.
The Titans need pass-rush help after trading Dre’Mont Jones to the Ravens at the deadline. Bain is noted for his elite power and quick hands, making him a formidable presence on the edge.
The Cleveland Browns are predicted by CBS Sports to select wide receiver Carnell Tate from Ohio State, while Sporting News suggests they may trade their first-round pick in exchange for Dante Moore.
Key Teams and Picks
The New Orleans Saints are predicted by Pro Football Focus to target interior offensive linemen but settle on edge rusher David Bailey from Texas Tech. Meanwhile, Sports Illustrated suggests the Saints could select safety Caleb Downs from Ohio State, who is noted for his rare impact potential.
The Washington Commanders are predicted by Pro Football Focus to select defensive back Caleb Downs from Ohio State as a versatile hybrid player who can make big plays in Dan Quinn’s scheme. The Cincinnati Bengals may select cornerback Jermod McCoy from Tennessee, while the Miami Dolphins could target tight end Kenyon Sadiq from Oregon.
The Kansas City Chiefs are predicted by CBS Sports to select offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa from Miami, while Pro Football Focus suggests they may choose edge rusher Keldric Faulk from Auburn.
The Baltimore Ravens and Carolina Panthers both have interest in Mauigoa, with the Ravens possibly selecting him as an immediate upgrade for their defensive line.
The Dallas Cowboys are predicted to select linebacker Sonny Styles from Ohio State, while the Denver Broncos could target edge rusher T.J. Parker from Clemson according to CBS Sports.
Conclusion
The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event with numerous trade possibilities and top prospects for each team. As teams navigate their needs and make strategic decisions, the final roster of first-round picks will undoubtedly impact the future success of these organizations in the league.