2026 NFL mock draft: Cowboys trade up for star defender as one pick is made for each NFL team

The 2026 NFL Draft is two weeks from today. The only projection to be made with any level of confidence is Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza going No. 1 overall to the Raiders. A year ago, the first four picks, at the very least, were practically etched in stone with Cam Ward, Travis Hunter Jr., Abdul Carter and Will Campbell. 

At No. 2 overall, the Jets are thought to be between a pair of edge rushers, David Bailey of Texas Tech and Arvell Reese of Ohio State. The ramifications of that decision send ripples throughout the first round. In today's thought exercise, we explore some new pairings in the first round while also making a selection for each of the five teams without a first-round pick: the Jaguars, Falcons, Colts, Packers and the Broncos.

Without further ado, let's kick this off!

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. You can find more draft coverage at CBSSports.com, including weekly mock drafts and regular evaluations of the top prospects.

Teams without a first-round pick 

No. 47: LB Jake Golday, Cincinnati

Indianapolis has a hole at the linebacker position. Golday is not a traditional fit but he brings size and athleticism to Lou Anarumo's defense. 

No. 48: EDGE Gabe Jacas, Illinois

With James Pearce Jr.'s future in the air, Atlanta needs more help on the edge. Jacas is a rugged edge defender who immediately upgrades the floor in run defense.

No. 52: Christen Miller, Georgia

Green Bay has been no stranger to the Georgia defense in the past. They look to Athens once again to fill a gap along the interior defensive line.

No. 56: DL Kaleb Proctor, Southeastern Louisiana

The second round may be too rich for Proctor, but he is rising up the board. There has been a report going around indicating that Proctor stacks up favorably in analytics within the Rams organization. The Jaguars' leadership has roots in Los Angeles, and Proctor is the type of interior defender the Rams have collected in the past.

No. 62: S Zakee Wheatley, Penn State

The hope is that Wheatley can be a starting safety for a team employing two veterans at the position. It would not be a surprise if the team looked to add depth to the offensive line.