Particle.news
Download on the App Store

2026 NFL Draft Closes With Two First-Round QBs as Teams Eye 2027

Teams signaled a look to 2027 by guarding next year's first-round picks.

Overview

  • The draft wrapped up Saturday with only two quarterbacks taken in Round 1, as the Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza No. 1 and the Rams surprised with Ty Simpson at No. 13.
  • Front offices kept 2027 first-rounders out of trade talks, reflecting widespread planning for a deeper quarterback class next year.
  • Medical flags reshaped Day 3, with Tennessee corner Jermod McCoy falling to the Raiders at 101 over a knee cartilage defect and LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier dropping to the Chiefs at 249 after reports of a spinal cyst.
  • Analysts praised foundation-building hauls, with the Jets and Browns highlighted on winners lists and Mel Kiper Jr. issuing A grades to the Browns, Cowboys, Raiders and Eagles.
  • Ohio State reinforced its pipeline status by producing 11 draft picks, underscoring how certain programs continue to stock NFL rosters.