2026 NFL Draft: PFF Releases Updated Mock Draft After Underclassmen Declarations

With the draft pool officially set, PFF believes it has a strong vision of who NFL teams are hoping to add to their respective rosters.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 12:47pm

The deadline has passed for college football players to announce whether they intend to return to college next season. With the draft pool officially set, PFF released an updated mock of the 2026 NFL Draft. The list is headlined by Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick. Other top prospects include edge rushers Reuben Bain Jr. (Miami) and Arvell Reese (Ohio State), wide receivers Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State) and Carnell Tate (Ohio State), and safety Caleb Downs (Ohio State).

Why it matters

The 2026 NFL Draft is a highly anticipated event, as teams look to add top college talent to their rosters. This updated mock draft from PFF provides valuable insights into which players are expected to be selected early and the potential impact they could have at the next level.

The details

PFF's mock draft features several standout players, including Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, who is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick. Mendoza had a stellar 2025 campaign, leading Indiana to its first national title. Other top prospects include edge rushers Reuben Bain Jr. (Miami) and Arvell Reese (Ohio State), wide receivers Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State) and Carnell Tate (Ohio State), and safety Caleb Downs (Ohio State). These players have all demonstrated their talent and potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL.

  • The deadline for college football players to announce their intentions to return to college next season has passed.
  • PFF released its updated 2026 NFL Draft mock draft on January 29, 2026.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The Indiana quarterback is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after leading his team to a national title.

Reuben Bain Jr.

The Miami edge rusher was a key contributor to the Hurricanes' standout 2025 season, recording 54 tackles, 9.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and an interception.

Arvell Reese

The Ohio State linebacker was a nightmare for opposing offenses in 2025, racking up 69 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and two pass deflections.

Jordyn Tyson

The Arizona State wide receiver was one of the most productive pass-catching threats in college football last season, hauling in 61 passes for 711 yards and eight touchdowns.

Caleb Downs

The Ohio State safety is a two-time Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year, three-time all-conference first-team member, and two-time unanimous All-American.

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What’s next

With events such as the Reese's Senior Bowl and the scouting combine still ahead, players will have more opportunities to improve their draft stock.

The takeaway

The 2026 NFL Draft class is shaping up to be one of the most talented in recent memory, with a diverse array of top prospects at key positions. Teams will be eager to add these impact players to their rosters and bolster their chances of success in the coming seasons.