Browns, Ravens, Eagles named top winners in 2026 NFL Draft analysis

8 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Apr 26

The Browns secured Spencer Fano at No. 9, Ravens made 11 picks including Olaivavega Ioane, and Eagles traded for Pro Bowler Jonathan Greenard while drafting Makai Lemon.
Miami Dolphins and Cardinals also made notable moves, with Miami focusing on supporting new QB Malik Willis and Arizona drafting Carson Beck. International prospects Seydou Traore and Uar Bernard were selected.
Panthers, 49ers, and Jaguars were highlighted as draft 'losers' due to perceived reaches and questionable picks. Previous reports provided team grades and immediate evaluations, but long-term draft success remains uncertain.

What inside knowledge led the Steelers to draft the injured Gabriel Rubio, whose father was a former team pick?

Is prioritizing a return specialist in the fourth round a winning strategy or a luxury the Steelers could not afford?

Can a traditional fullback like Riley Nowakowski truly be a 'Swiss-army knife' in today's modern NFL offense?

Did the Steelers' focus on gadget players create offensive redundancy rather than the versatility Coach McCarthy desires?

How does this draft class signal a major philosophical shift for the Steelers in their first year post-Tomlin?

What is hometown hero Eli Heidenreich's realistic path to making the final roster in a crowded running back room?