The Winners & Losers from the 2026 NFL Draft

A Historic Turnout in Pittsburgh

A record-breaking crowd of 802,000 fans gathered in Pittsburgh to witness the 2026 NFL Draft, marking a significant milestone for the event. The three-day spectacle showcased the league’s continued growth, with teams actively reshaping their rosters for a potential Super Bowl run.

Unexpected Moves by the Los Angeles Rams

The Los Angeles Rams made headlines with a surprising selection in the first round, choosing Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson at 13th overall. Despite not being a consensus top talent, Simpson’s pick sparked debate, as the Rams already boast veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, a key figure for the team. Head coach Sean McVay’s muted reaction to the decision went viral, though he defended it by stating, “I didn’t want to seem overly excited out of respect for Stafford.”

McVay’s strategy appears to be targeting long-term stability, but many questioned whether a top-13 selection should have gone to a star pass rusher or elite receiver instead. The Rams also bolstered their defense by signing cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson in free agency, adding depth to their secondary.

Raiders’ Strategic Investments

The Las Vegas Raiders secured a strong start by selecting Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick, a move that solidified their offensive prospects. Mendoza will join a promising group of talents, including running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers, as the team aims to build a competitive foundation.

While the Raiders’ roster is still in flux, their acquisition of centre Tyler Linderbaum for a substantial sum signals a shift toward stability. Although they have faced coaching changes, the team’s recent selections suggest a positive trajectory. Jermod McCoy, a standout Tennessee cornerback, was drafted in the fourth round (pick 101) after missing the previous season with a torn ACL. His potential remains high, and if healthy, could elevate the secondary with Treydan Stukes as a complementary addition.

Giants and Jets Turning the Corner

For the first time in years, the New York Giants and Jets emerged as draft success stories. The Giants, who have reached the playoffs just twice in 14 seasons, added edge rusher Arvell Reese at pick five, strengthening their defense. Quarterback Jaxson Dart now has Malachi Fields as a reliable third-round receiver, pairing with Malik Nabers to create a dynamic offensive unit.

The Jets, struggling with a 15-season playoff drought, used their first-round picks to acquire David Bailey, Kenyon Sadiq, and Omar Cooper—each bringing star potential. While quarterback Cade Klubnik was a calculated risk in the fourth round, his selection could prove valuable if Geno Smith’s performance falters. Both teams show signs of progress, with the Giants’ hiring of John Harbaugh further signaling a turnaround.

With 257 players selected across three days, the 2026 Draft highlighted the NFL’s evolving landscape. While some choices drew criticism, the overall impact of the event underscored its growing significance for teams and fans alike.