NFL teams make pivotal picks as 2026 Draft concludes with Mendoza, Simpson, and Bain Jr.
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Apr 27
NFL teams make pivotal picks as 2026 Draft concludes with Mendoza, Simpson, and Bain Jr.
10 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Apr 27
The Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza first overall, planning to sit him behind veteran Kirk Cousins, while the Rams picked Ty Simpson at 13th and the Buccaneers landed Rueben Bain Jr. at 15th.
The draft saw a rare lack of early quarterback selections, with nine offensive linemen taken in the first round and teams like the Cowboys and Chiefs making strategic trades for defensive talent.
Las Vegas aims for long-term quarterback development, the Rams face internal debate over their pick, and Tampa Bay hopes Bain Jr. overcomes concerns about his arm length to become a defensive standout.
Why did a top-10 talent like Rueben Bain Jr. fall to the Buccaneers at pick 15?
Did the Rams' QB pick expose a 'win-now' vs. 'plan-later' rift in their leadership?
Will teams regret passing on 2026 quarterbacks when the 2027 draft frenzy begins?
Was trading Dexter Lawrence a brilliant rebuild move or a colossal mistake for the New York Giants?
Is sitting a No. 1 pick a smart strategy or a waste of a rookie contract?
Does Jeremiyah Love's top-3 selection signal a major shift in how the NFL values running backs?