Full Breakdown
NFL Draft Projections: Mel Kiper Jr. Highlights Ohio State and Denver Selections
2/26/2026, 11:52:45 AM
Ohio State Players in the First Round
In his latest mock draft, ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. forecasts that five players from Ohio State University will be selected in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, scheduled for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. Kiper projects safety Caleb Downs to be the second overall pick by the New York Jets, marking a significant moment as it would be the highest draft position for a safety since Eric Turner was selected second overall in 1991. Downs, who led Ohio State with two interceptions and two forced fumbles, also earned the Jim Thorpe Award for the best defensive back in college football.
Following Downs, linebacker Arvell Reese is projected to be picked fourth overall by the Tennessee Titans. Kiper suggests that Reese may transition to an edge rusher role in the NFL, given Tennessee's struggles with pass pressure last season. Kiper also predicts that wide receiver Carnell Tate will be selected sixth overall by the Cleveland Browns, who are in need of a primary receiving target. Tate had a standout junior season, recording 51 catches for 875 yards and nine touchdowns.
Kiper further anticipates that linebacker Sonny Styles will be taken seventh overall by the Washington Commanders. Styles, who transitioned from safety, led Ohio State in tackles during the 2025 season. Defensive tackle Kayden McDonald rounds out Kiper's first-round predictions for Ohio State, projected to be selected 26th overall by the Chicago Bears. McDonald had a productive season, finishing with 65 tackles and nine tackles for loss.
If Kiper's projections hold true, Ohio State would tie for the third-most first-round picks from a single school in a draft, following the 2004 Miami (Fla.) and 2021 Alabama teams, each of which had six players selected.
Denver Broncos' Selection
In a separate mock draft, Kiper has the Denver Broncos selecting Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren with the 30th overall pick. Kiper describes McNeil-Warren as a "sleeper" prospect who could have been a top-15 pick had he played for a Power 4 team. He highlights McNeil-Warren's impressive performance against Kentucky, where he recorded 11 tackles and a fumble recovery. Kiper notes that this selection would be a strategic move for the Broncos, as they aim to strengthen their secondary under head coach Sean Payton.
Kiper emphasizes that while McNeil-Warren may not provide immediate impact, the Broncos are planning for the future, especially with the potential free agency of current safeties. The decision to draft a safety instead of an offensive player reflects the team's focus on bolstering their defense.
Official Statements & Responses
Kiper remarked on Caleb Downs, stating, "He reads the offense so well, and then he has quickness, physicality and ball skills to make plays against both the run and the pass." He also noted the Jets' dire need for defensive improvements, particularly after their historic lack of interceptions in the 2025 season.
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts question the Jets' decision to prioritize a safety over other pressing needs, such as an edge rusher. Critics argue that selecting Downs at No. 2 could be seen as a risky move, given the team's overall defensive struggles.
What's Next
As the NFL Scouting Combine approaches, player evaluations will continue to evolve, potentially impacting draft stock. Teams will be closely monitoring performances to finalize their strategies ahead of the draft.
