2027 NFL mock draft: Reid's preseason first-round predictions

The 2026 college football season starts this weekend with Week 0, and evaluations for the 2027 NFL draft are already underway. Since releasing my way-too-early mock draft in late April, I've been in the film room dissecting tape while also talking to scouts and evaluators around the league to get an idea on how top prospects are trending. So, let's update those first-round projections with another mock draft.

This is how I see Round 1 playing out right now. Keep in mind that plenty of changes will shake out between now and next April in Washington, D.C. Players will rise and fall on the board, and some might not even remain in the class. And since we don't know the draft order yet,I used current projections from ESPN's Football Power Index for the 1-32.

With quarterbacks being such a focal point in this class, I've also projected a trade that would uproot the top of this draft at that position. Let's get this started with that blockbuster deal and then get to predictions for all 32 first-round picks.

Note: Underclassmen are marked with an asterisk.

Projected trade: Browns move up to No. 1

Here, the Browns decide to take fate into their own hands, trading both of their first-round picks (Nos. 4 and 32 overall), a 2027 fourth-round pick and their 2028 second-round pick to the Dolphins for the No. 1 overall selection. Will Cleveland use it to get its franchise quarterback -- and if so, which one?

1. Cleveland Browns(via projected trade with MIA)

Dante Moore, QB, Oregon*

I had the Dolphins trade out because they recently invested in Malik Willis. While a lot depends on Willis' performance this season, Miami does already have a promising young quarterback. UnlessShedeur Sandersmakes a massive leap in Year 2 (which seems unlikely), the Browns do not.Deshaun Watson's contract ends after this season, as well, making this a perfect time for Cleveland to take another swing at that elusive franchise QB to join the young talent it has accumulated in the past couple drafts.

Moore has squeaky-clean mechanics, and his accuracy shined in his first year as a starter. This would be a good situation for him, with young players he can grow alongside. If he brings his stellar college play to the NFL, the Browns could turn things around quickly.

2. Arizona Cardinals

Arch Manning, QB, Texas*

Even though Carson Beck, Arizona's third-round pick in April, has looked good this preseason, his presence wouldn't prevent the Cardinals from looking at a QB here -- especially with veteran Jacoby Brissett's contract expiring after the season. Manning recovered from a slow start to 2025, with his development taking a big leap in mid-October. If he can build on that momentum and improve his accuracy on underneath throws, he has the physical tools to be picked at this spot and join 2026 first-round running back Jeremiyah Love to form Arizona's backfield of the future.

3. New York Jets

CJ Carr, QB, Notre Dame*

The Jets' drafts in the past five years have seen them bring in bookend offensive tackles (Olu Fashanu and Armand Membou), a true WR1 (Garrett Wilson), a franchise RB (Breece Hall) and two talented tight ends (Mason Taylor and Kenyon Sadiq). Seems like an ideal base for a young quarterback to join. Carr's sample size is small (12 career starts), but he thrived last season in his first year as a starter. He's a capable passer who can distribute the ball and does a great job of syncing his feet, eyes and throwing motion. Notre Dame is a prime national title contender in 2026, and if Carr excels on that quest, it's easy to see him rise to this spot of the draft.

4. Miami Dolphins(via projected trade with CLE)

Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State*

The Dolphins fell three spots via our mock trade and would still be able to get my top-ranked player at a severe position of need. Smith grew up down the road from Hard Rock Stadium and would immediately become Miami's go-to receiver. At 6-foot-3, 225 pounds, he is a physically imposing wideout who glides past defenders and is capable of winning with speed or power. He's the best of Ohio State's recent run of first-round receivers. Not only would he be a massive upgrade fromMalik Washington and Jalen Tolbert, but he would also allow Miami to correctly evaluate QB Malik Willis.

5. Las Vegas Raiders

Cam Coleman, WR, Texas*

The Raiders got their QB1 in April when they pickedFernando Mendoza; now they get their true WR1. Coleman is a sleek-built pass catcher who can make acrobatic receptions look routine with his outstanding catch radius. He transferred from Auburn to Texas, and this upcoming season could see his production explode as Arch Manning's featured option. Coleman can run every route on the route tree, so having him join 2024 first-rounder Brock Bowers and 2025 first-rounder Ashton Jeantywould give Las Vegas a formidable core around Mendoza.

6. Tennessee Titans

Dylan Stewart, Edge, South Carolina*

Even though they pickedKeldric Faulk in Round 1 in April, the Titans could use more edge-rush help, especially with Jermaine Johnson IIentering the final year of his contract. Few edge-rush prospects have ever possessed Stewart's blend of upfield acceleration, bend, and closing speed. The production has yet to match the potential, as Stewart had only 4.5 sacks last season, but the 6-foot-5, 250-pounder has rare tools and already has teams giddy about what he could develop into at the NFL level.

7. Carolina Panthers

Leonard Moore, CB, Notre Dame*

WithMike Jackson set to be a free agent who could cash in elsewhere if he repeats his 2025 performance, the Panthers might have a vacancy at cornerback opposite Jaycee Horn. Adding Moore would give Carolina a dynamic coverage duo, as Moore is one of the best corners I've scouted in some time. He has been exceptional at Notre Dame and had five interceptions last season. His length (6-foot-2, 197 pounds) and fluidity give him potential to be a shutdown cover guy.

8. New Orleans Saints

Colin Simmons, Edge, Texas*

The Saints need edge help in both the short term and long term, asChase Young and Carl Grandersonwill be free agents in 2028. Simmons would be a major boost to New Orleans' defensive front as the most productive edge rusher in this class. He led the SEC with 12 sacks last season, and the 6-foot-3, 245-pounder is a terror with an unpredictable assortment of pass-rush moves. His combination of power and upfield quickness has him in the argument with Dylan Stewart as the top edge in this draft.

9. New York Giants

Will Echoles, DT, Ole Miss*

The Giants traded away star defensive tackleDexter Lawrence IIthis offseason, creating a gaping hole in their defensive interior. Echoles is the best of a deep defensive tackle crop, as his power and pass-rush push give him a well-rounded skill set. The 6-foot-3, 315-pound Echoles is a stout run defender who is difficult to move off the spot, allowing him to maintain gap control and generate negative plays. He just turned 20 years old earlier this month, giving him tremendous room for growth.

10. Washington Commanders

Charlie Becker, WR, Indiana*

Even thoughStefon Diggs just signed with Washington, he'll be 33 years old and it's unclear if he'll be the Commanders' WR2 past this season. There's still a need for help opposite Terry McLaurin, and the 6-foot-4, 207-pound Becker was the player I enjoyed studying the most this offseason. He exploded on the scene last November and was the X factor in Indiana's run to the national title, averaging 19.9 yards per reception (seventh in the FBS). Becker combines deep speed with elite ball tracking and excellent hand-eye coordination. His skill set would perfectly complement Jayden Daniels' deep-ball proficiency.

11. Atlanta Falcons

Trevor Goosby, OT, Texas*

Offensive tackle is a looming question for the Falcons, with right tackle Kaleb McGary retiring this offseason and his replacement,Jawaan Taylor, signing a one-year deal. Left tackleJake Matthewswill be 35 next season, too. The long and agile Goosby is capable of playing both tackle spots but could slide in right away at right tackle, which is important since the Falcons have two left-handed quarterbacks. Assuming his recent knee injury isn't serious, the 6-foot-7, 325-pounder could enter the top-10 discussion with another successful season.

12. New York Jets(via IND)

Ellis Robinson IV, CB, Georgia*

Considering the Jets didn't record a single interception last season, becoming the first team in NFL history to accomplish that feat, they desperately need playmakers in the secondary. New York also allowed 36 touchdown passes. Robinson is an excellent athlete who is capable of making plays on the ball, finishing with four interceptions in 2025. He still needs to sharpen his technique, but Robinson will be a top-15 pick if he's able to take the next step.

13. Minnesota Vikings

Trey'Dez Green, TE, LSU*

With the jury still out onKyler Murray, who is on a one-year deal, this could turn into a spot for a quarterback. But if Murray plays well, Minnesota might be looking for a dynamic playmaker such as Green. Built like an NBA small forward, the 6-foot-7, 237-pound Green is one of the most unique players in the class. He is a mismatch for defenders -- he's basically a supersized wide receiver -- and his production could explode in Lane Kiffin's uptempo offense. And he would be an eventual replacement for T.J. Hockenson, who's entering the final year of his contract.

14. Pittsburgh Steelers

Brauntae Johnson, S, Notre Dame*

The Steelers are another team that could be in the quarterback mix withAaron Rodgers set to retire after the season. But with the top three QBs off the board, the Steelers could instead look to get a youth infusion at safety, especially considering that Jaquan Briskeris on a one-year deal. Johnson is my highest-ranked safety entering the season despite being relatively inexperienced. His combination of instincts, ball skills and enthusiasm crashing downhill in run support makes him a high-upside prospect.

15. New York Jets(via DAL)

David Stone, DT, Oklahoma*

Stone is the best run defender in this stacked defensive tackle class, and his high-end play strength is coupled with excellent ability to shed blockers at the point of attack. The Jets could use help in the defensive front after dealingQuinnen Williamsat the trade deadline last season, and Stone is a scheme-versatile defender capable of playing multiple spots. With only 1.5 sacks last season, Stone needs to expand his menu of pass-rush moves, as he's more of a pocket collapser than true penetrator.

16. Chicago Bears

Jordan Seaton, OT, LSU*

Ozzy Trapilohas recovered remarkably quickly from a torn patellar tendon, but there will still be questions about how long that injury will linger and his overall upside at left tackle. Until we know how well Trapilo will play, left tackle should be viewed as a huge question mark in Chicago. Seaton is an easy-moving pass protector who plays with excellent balance. He still needs to work on his hand placement, but his raw tools could eventually make him the top offensive tackle in next year's class if he performs well against an SEC schedule.

17. Jacksonville Jaguars

A'Mauri Washington, DT, Oregon

Arik Armstead and DaVon Hamiltonare entering the final year of their contracts, which leaves a potential void in the middle of the Jaguars' defense. The 6-foot-3, 330-pound Washington would have been a top-40 prospect in the 2026 class had he declared. He is a massive interior defender who has shown flashes of being a true disruptor at the first level. Washington does need to show a bit more consistency anchoring against the run, as he tends to lose ground against double-teams.

18. Denver Broncos

Jamari Johnson, TE, Oregon*

Sean Payton has used tight ends heavily in the past, as they often fill his "Joker" position, but he hasn't found that guy yet in Denver. WithEvan Engram a pending free agent and Adam Trautmanprimarily a blocker, the Broncos are looking for a more well-rounded player at the position. Johnson would fulfill that, having the alignment versatility to play inline or in the slot. He has solid hands and is a good-enough run blocker. Denver spent two Day 3 picks on tight ends in April, but that wouldn't stop them from taking Johnson here.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Ashton Hampton, CB, Clemson*

The Bucs have been reloading their defense with younger players, but cornerback is a position that could be worth addressing in 2027.Benjamin Morrison was inconsistent as a rookie last season after being drafted in the second round, andZyon McCollumhad a disappointinginjury-filledcampaign. If McCollum struggles to regain his pre-injury form, then Hampton could take his place. He's a big, physical corner at 6-foot-2, 205 pounds who thrives in man coverage.

20. Houston Texans

Kewan Lacy, RB, Ole Miss*

The Texans have a deep roster, but they could use some reinforcements at running back. Houston finished 22nd in the league in rushing in 2025 and its lead back,David Montgomery, will be 30 next season. Lacy is a long-striding slasher who easily makes defenders miss, and his 24 touchdowns last season were third most in SEC history. He would provide quarterback C.J. Stroudwith a potent threat in the backfield who can create yards on the ground or when involved in the passing game.

21. New England Patriots

Yhonzae Pierre, Edge, Alabama

Pierre is an energetic and powerful pass rusher who primarily operates as a standup outside linebacker. He has average bend but plays with high effort. He had eight sacks last season, so double digits are on the table if he can make another leap. Both of the Patriots' starting edges (Harold Landry III and Dre'Mont Jones) will be 30 or older next season, so Pierre could be selected as future successor to join Gabe Jacas, New England's second-round pick in April.

22. Philadelphia Eagles

Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State*

Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean are in line for big paydays, so the Eagles could use some cost-affordable secondary options. With Riq Woolenset to be a free agent, the 6-foot-4, 195-pound Jones could slot in as a player with a similar frame and skill set. Jones allowed an FBS-low seven receptions last season but has feast-or-famine tendencies, with five of those catches going for 20 or more yards and two resulting in touchdowns. Eliminating big plays would cement Jones into Round 1.

23. Cincinnati Bengals

KJ Bolden, S, Georgia*

The Bengals are facing a secondary conundrum, withDax Hill, DJ Turner II and Jordan Battleeach entering the final year of their contracts. It's fair to assume at least one of them will be elsewhere next season, so defensive back could be the play. Bolden is a jack-of-all-trades for Georgia, but his best NFL outlook is as a center-field safety who can roam the back end. He has a slight frame (6-foot, 180 pounds), but he is still a willing downhill player and physical tackler.

24. Dallas Cowboys(via GB)

Chris Cole, LB, Georgia*

The Cowboys expect to have an improved defense this season, but they still need more youthful reinforcements on that side of the ball. Cole is set to be the next of the long line of quality linebackers that Georgia has produced under Kirby Smart. At 6-foot-3, 235 pounds, he has the size, range and physicality that teams covet. Cole needs to improve his take-on strength in the box and coverage awareness but would be a nice fit in Dallas, especially withDee Wintersset to be a free agent after the season.

25. Los Angeles Chargers

Kade Pieper, C, Iowa

The Chargers' interior offensive line options were underwhelming even before centerTyler Biadasz had a season-ending ACL injury in camp. While hopes are high for recent second-round pick Jake Slaughter, Los Angeles should continue to devote resources to the interior line. Pieper is my top-rated interior lineman. While he has played guard exclusively in college, he's transitioning to center this season. That positional flexibility will boost his stock, and Pieper's excellent lateral movement makes him a picture-perfect fit in Mike McDaniel's scheme.

26. Kansas City Chiefs

Trevor Lauck, OT, Iowa

We'll continue the Hawkeyes' offensive line run with Lauck, who is a steady tackle that simply finds ways to piece together wins in games. While he doesn't have the same physical traits or movement skills of other top tackles in this class, he's a consistent presence. Lauck plays left tackle at Iowa, but I believe he will transition to the right side in the NFL. Kansas City is searching for a long-term solution at that position after the Jawaan Taylor signing didn't work out, so Lauck could be a great fit.

27. Detroit Lions

Greg Johnson, G, Minnesota

The Lions' front office has been consistent in its quest for tough, rugged and consistent players. Johnson easily checks all three boxes as arguably the top guard in this class. Johnson has experience at all five offensive line spots but projects as an interior blocker in the NFL. Detroit is in the process of remaking its offensive line, and Johnson could be the team's next early pick on the O-line, joining guardTate Ratledge (second round, 2025) and right tackle Blake Miller(first round, 2026).

28. San Francisco 49ers

Niki Prongos, OT, Stanford

Prongos has been one of the more pleasant surprises in my summer film study, and I wanted to make sure he was in this mock. There's a bit of projection with this pick, as Prongos is still a work in progress. But the 6-foot-7, 315-pound former walk-on has good foundational tools, and I really like his upward trajectory. Future Hall of FamerTrent Williamswill be 39 before next season, so the 49ers eventually have to find his successor. While Prongos has to work on his depth in pass sets and hand violence, he could rise and fill that need for San Francisco.

29. Seattle Seahawks

Justin Scott, DT, Miami*

Defense was the driver of the Seahawks' Super Bowl LX championship last season, and Seattle GM John Schneider is never shy about fortifying the defensive front. And with 32-year-oldLeonard Williams set to be a free agent and Jarran Reedturning 34 in December, Scott would provide much-needed youth. He needs to add moves to his pass-rush arsenal, but scouts I've talked to believe Scott has potential to be a top-20 pick if he builds on what he showed on tape last season.

30. Baltimore Ravens

Ahmad Moten Sr., DT, Miami

Back-to-back Miami defensive linemen! Moten is one of my favorite players in this draft and would fit in seamlessly in new Ravens coach Jesse Minter's defense. Moten is already first-round-worthy as an interior pass rusher, as his first-step quickness and penetration abilities are top-notch. He'll have to take a major step as a run defender to cement a place in Round 1, as he sometimes gets dislodged from his gaps. But withCalais Campbell turning 40 next week and Nnamdi Madubuike's long-term status up in the air, Moten would be a good fit.

31. Buffalo Bills

Nick Marsh, WR, Indiana*

This makes two first-round receivers for the Hoosiers, as Marsh is a physical wideout who is a chiseled 6-foot-3, 213 pounds. The Michigan State transfer is powerful on short-to-intermediate patterns and is not afraid to do the dirty work in the offense. He's competitive in gaining yards after the catch, which would be useful in Buffalo's offense. Considering that 2024 second-rounderKeon Coleman hasn't worked out, Marsh could combine with DJ Moore and Khalil Shakir to increase Josh Allen's receiving options.

32. Miami Dolphins(via LAR through projected trade with CLE)

Will Heldt, Edge, Clemson

The 6-foot-6, 260-pound Heldt is a long, linearly built player who understands how to use his length, as evidenced by his team-high 7.5 sacks a year ago. Despite being a limited athlete, Heldt's get-off from a two-point stance is above average. He needs to add more mass to his frame, but he already has the effort and nuances to perform as an NFL pass rusher. The Dolphins need plenty of help on the edge to join 2024 first-rounderChop Robinson, and Heldt could be an asset there.

]