Full Breakdown
2026 NFL Draft Predictions: Daniel Jeremiah's Mock Draft Insights
1/26/2026, 8:30:56 PM
Overview of the Draft Landscape
As the NFL offseason progresses, teams are beginning to focus on their needs for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Notably, Daniel Jeremiah, a respected NFL draft analyst, has released his first mock draft, which provides insights into potential selections for several teams, including the Los Angeles Rams, New York Giants, New Orleans Saints, and Tennessee Titans.
Los Angeles Rams: Offensive Focus
The Los Angeles Rams currently hold the No. 13 and No. 29 picks in the first round. Jeremiah predicts that the Rams will prioritize offensive talent, selecting wide receiver Makai Lemon from USC with the 13th overall pick. Lemon had an impressive 2025 season, recording 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns. Jeremiah emphasizes Lemon's toughness, suggesting he would complement existing receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams effectively. For their 29th pick, the Rams are projected to select offensive tackle Blake Miller from Clemson, aiming to bolster their offensive line for the future.
New York Giants: Cornerback Acquisition
The New York Giants are expected to address their pressing needs at wide receiver and cornerback. Jeremiah's mock draft has the Giants selecting cornerback Mansoor Delane from LSU with the No. 5 overall pick. Delane is noted for his "lockdown" potential and ability to excel in press coverage, making him a valuable addition to the Giants' secondary. This selection indicates a strategic shift, as many analysts anticipated the Giants would prioritize a wide receiver first.
New Orleans Saints: Supporting the Quarterback
The New Orleans Saints are projected to select running back Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame with the No. 8 overall pick. Jeremiah highlights Love's dynamic playmaking ability, suggesting he could be a strong complement to quarterback Tyler Shough. While the Saints may also consider adding depth to their backfield through free agency, Love's potential to become a key offensive player is a significant factor in this prediction.
Tennessee Titans: Offensive Line Reinforcement
The Tennessee Titans are predicted to select offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa from Miami with the No. 4 overall pick. Jeremiah argues that improving protection for quarterback Cam Ward is essential, especially after Ward was sacked 55 times in the previous season. Mauigoa's size and strength make him a suitable candidate to enhance the Titans' offensive line. However, some analysts suggest that the Titans might focus on defense instead, indicating uncertainty about their draft strategy.
Criticism & Opposition
While Jeremiah's mock draft provides a glimpse into potential strategies, there are dissenting opinions regarding the Titans' choice of Mauigoa. Critics argue that investing a high draft pick in an offensive tackle may not align with the team's current roster needs, particularly with other impactful players available.
Verbatim Quotes
- “8 overall, and his explanation for the pick was one of his briefest in the entire mock draft, writing just one line: I love -- no punt intended -- the idea of pairing Tyler Shough with the most electric playmaker in the draft.” — Daniel Jeremiah
- “His coverage is very mature. He'll be one of the top 10 to 12 corners pretty quick,” — AFC scouting director on Mansoor Delane.
As the draft approaches, teams will continue to refine their strategies, and Jeremiah's insights will likely evolve as new information emerges.
