New Draft Shake‑Up: Who’s Really on the Menu?

Free agency has just started, and teams are busy filling holes with veteran players. This scramble leaves college stars in a strange spot: some are moving up, others dropping. A fresh mock draft shows how the big game has changed the rankings. The top pick is still Indiana’s quarterback, Fernando Mendoza. The Raiders didn’t touch their quarterback room except trading Geno Smith, so they’re likely to snap up Mendoza. He threw for over 3, 500 yards and 41 passing touchdowns last season. Defensive ends and linebackers have jumped the charts after the NFL combine. Texas Tech’s David Bailey ran a fast 4. 5‑second 40‑yard dash and added a big vertical jump, earning him a spot early in the first round. Ohio State’s Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles also climbed after strong combine performances, showing that speed and agility still matter most.Running backs are rare in the top five, but Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love could break that trend. He rushed for 1, 372 yards and 18 touchdowns on 199 carries, plus added catching ability. If teams need a dynamic back, Love is the name on their list. Wide‑receiver depth continues to grow. Ohio State’s Carnell Tate and USC’s Makai Lemon are both moving up because of their deep‑ball threat. The Giants, losing a 1, 000‑yard receiver in free agency, might turn to Tate for the long‑range play. Offensive tackles also gained attention. Georgia’s Monroe Freeling, who had a near‑perfect left tackle season in 2025, is now a top‑six pick for the Browns. He allowed almost no sacks and was penalized only twice.