NFL Draft Grades: Rams, Raiders & NY Teams – Winners & Mistakes?

2026 NFL Draft: Raiders and Rams Grab Quarterback Risks, Jets and Giants Make Bold Moves

The 2026 NFL Draft concluded with a flurry of activity, reshaping the quarterback landscape for several franchises and signaling potential turning points for teams seeking to contend. The Las Vegas Raiders made a splash by selecting Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick, even as the Los Angeles Rams surprised many by choosing Alabama’s Ty Simpson at number 13. These selections, along with strategic moves by the Modern York Jets and New York Giants, have sparked debate about which teams positioned themselves for success and which may have overreached in their pursuit of immediate impact.

The draft is always a pivotal moment for NFL franchises, offering a chance to rebuild, retool, or simply add depth to existing rosters. This year’s event delivered on that promise, with several teams making bold decisions that could define their trajectories for years to come. The focus, as always, was on securing the future at the quarterback position, a necessitate that drove the top picks and influenced many of the subsequent selections.

Raiders Stake Future on Heisman Winner Fernando Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders didn’t hesitate, using the top selection in the 2026 NFL Draft to secure the services of Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner from Indiana University. Mendoza, a 6-foot-5 quarterback weighing 225 pounds, enters the league with significant expectations. The Raiders are clearly betting that Mendoza can immediately elevate their offense and become the franchise cornerstone they’ve been searching for. The team has publicly expressed confidence in his leadership and playmaking abilities, hoping he can replicate his collegiate success at the professional level.

Still, the success of this pick hinges on the Raiders’ ability to build a supporting cast around Mendoza. While the quarterback position is crucial, a strong offensive line, reliable receiving targets and a solid running game are all essential for a young quarterback to thrive. Whether the Raiders have adequately addressed these needs remains to be seen. The team will need to provide Mendoza with the tools and protection necessary to succeed in the demanding NFL environment.

Rams Gamble on Ty Simpson as Stafford’s Successor

The Los Angeles Rams’ selection of Ty Simpson at number 13 raised eyebrows across the league. Many analysts did not project Simpson, the quarterback from Alabama, as a first-round pick, particularly with the Rams already having Matthew Stafford, the reigning NFL MVP, under center. However, Stafford’s age – 38 – clearly prompted the Rams to begin planning for the future. Simpson is viewed as Stafford’s eventual successor, providing the Rams with a potential long-term solution at the quarterback position.

This move demonstrates a willingness by the Rams to invest in the future, even while enjoying success in the present. It’s a calculated risk, as Simpson will need time to develop and learn the intricacies of the NFL game. The Rams’ coaching staff will play a crucial role in his development, and the team will need to be patient as he transitions to the professional level. The Rams are hoping that Simpson’s potential will outweigh the immediate need for a veteran presence at quarterback.

Jets and Giants Double Down in the First Round

The New York Jets and New York Giants both made significant moves in the first round, signaling their intent to compete in the AFC and NFC, respectively. The Jets, with the second overall pick, selected David Bailey, a linebacker from Texas Tech. They then added Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq and Indiana receiver Omar Cooper Jr., demonstrating a commitment to bolstering both sides of the ball. The Giants also doubled up, selecting Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese at number 5 and Miami offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa at number 10.

These aggressive moves by both New York teams suggest a renewed sense of optimism and a determination to end their respective playoff droughts. The Jets, in particular, have been rebuilding for several years, and the addition of Bailey and the other first-round picks could be the catalyst for a turnaround. The Giants, meanwhile, are looking to solidify their defense and protect their quarterback with the addition of Mauigoa. The success of these moves will depend on how quickly these players can adapt to the NFL and contribute to their teams’ success.

Cardinals Take a Risk on Running Back Jeremiyah Love

The Arizona Cardinals surprised many by drafting running back Jeremiyah Love third overall. This made them only the third team in the last 20 years to draft a running back that high, a testament to Love’s perceived potential. While running backs have become less of a focal point in the modern NFL, Love’s talent and versatility may have convinced the Cardinals to make a rare investment in the position. The Cardinals are hoping that Love can become a dynamic force in their offense and provide a much-needed boost to their running game.

Ohio State Dominates Early Rounds

The 2026 NFL Draft saw a significant influx of talent from Ohio State University, with four Buckeyes being selected in the top 11 picks. This further solidifies Ohio State’s reputation as a premier pipeline for NFL talent. The success of these players will undoubtedly reflect well on the program and its coaching staff. The Buckeyes’ dominance in the draft underscores the importance of college recruiting and player development in the NFL.

Offensive Line Priority

Nine offensive linemen were drafted in the first round, tying the most since 2000. This highlights the increasing emphasis on protecting quarterbacks and establishing a strong running game in the modern NFL. Teams are recognizing the importance of building a solid foundation on the offensive line, and they are willing to invest high draft picks to secure top talent at the position. This trend suggests that offensive line play will continue to be a critical factor in NFL success.

Looking Ahead: Development and Team Building

The 2026 NFL Draft has set the stage for an intriguing offseason and a potentially competitive 2026 season. The success of the drafted players will depend on their ability to adapt to the NFL, their development under their respective coaching staffs, and the overall team building efforts of their franchises. The Raiders and Rams, in particular, will be closely watched as they navigate the challenges of integrating their new quarterbacks into their offenses. The Jets and Giants will be looking to build on their first-round hauls and contend for playoff berths.

The next key checkpoint will be the start of rookie minicamps in May, where teams will begin to evaluate their draft picks and assess their progress. Further developments will unfold throughout the offseason and into the regular season, as teams refine their rosters and prepare for the challenges ahead. The 2026 NFL Draft was just the first step in a long and arduous journey towards success.

What are your thoughts on the draft? Share your opinions in the comments below and let us grasp which teams you think made the best – and worst – decisions.