The biggest winners and losers from the 2026 NFL Draft

April 27, 2026 Oliver Obel

The 2026 NFL Draft combined predictable top selections with a series of unexpected decisions, as teams balanced immediate ambition with long-term planning. Over three days and 257 picks, the event also reinforced its status as one of the league’s biggest global showcases.

A defining gamble in Los Angeles

One of the most debated moves came from the Los Angeles Rams, who selected Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick. Analysts had not widely projected Simpson as a first-round talent, making the choice a notable reach.

According to BBC coverage, the decision raised questions given the presence of veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, who is still leading a roster widely viewed as a Super Bowl contender. Rather than adding a final piece for an immediate title push, the Rams appear to have prioritised a longer-term transition at the position.

Head coach Sean McVay’s restrained reaction during the draft broadcast drew attention online, with some interpreting it as reflective of the mixed response among fans and observers.

Raiders focus on rebuilding stability

At the top of the draft, the Las Vegas Raiders followed expectations by selecting quarterback Fernando Mendoza first overall. While the pick itself was widely anticipated, their broader draft strategy drew praise.

BBC reporting highlighted the selection of cornerback Jermod McCoy in the fourth round as a high-risk, high-reward move, given his return from a serious knee injury. If healthy, McCoy could become a key contributor in a defense that has lacked playmakers.

With established offensive pieces already in place, the Raiders’ approach suggests a more structured rebuild after several unsettled seasons.

Signs of progress in New York

Both New York teams appear to have taken steps forward. The Giants, who have struggled for consistency over the past decade, strengthened their defense with the addition of edge rusher Arvell Reese while continuing to build around quarterback Jaxson Dart.

They also added receiving support, giving their offense more balance heading into the new season.

The Jets, meanwhile, invested heavily in offensive talent early in the draft. Their decision to select quarterback Cade Klubnik later on provides a potential fallback option behind Geno Smith, reflecting a cautious but forward-looking approach.

Draft continues to grow as a spectacle

Off the field, the NFL Draft’s scale continues to expand. League figures cited by the BBC show that more than 800,000 fans attended the event in Pittsburgh across three days, setting a new record.

The draft has evolved into one of the NFL’s premier events, rivaled only by the Super Bowl in overall attention. Commissioner Roger Goodell noted increasing interest from cities hoping to host future editions, with Washington, D.C. set to stage the event next year.

International presence and headline moments

The league’s international development efforts were also visible. Britain’s Seydou Traore and Nigeria’s Uar Bernard were selected through the International Player Pathway program, underlining the NFL’s expanding global reach.

One of the more dramatic moments came when wide receiver Makai Lemon was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles following a late trade, a move that reportedly disrupted the Pittsburgh Steelers’ plans.

Elsewhere, the Cleveland Browns drew attention for their aggressive trading strategy and crowded quarterback depth chart, while teams such as the San Francisco 49ers and Jacksonville Jaguars faced criticism from analysts for selecting players earlier than expected.

Late value and uncertain outcomes

Further down the draft order, quarterback Garrett Nussmeier’s slide to pick 249 stood out. Despite the fall, his landing spot with the Kansas City Chiefs could offer a favorable path forward, illustrating how draft position does not always define opportunity.

As in every year, early judgments remain provisional. Some teams have been widely praised for their approach, while others face scrutiny—but the true impact of these decisions will only become clear once the season begins.

Sources: BBC, NFL