NFL Draft's top five storylines to watch: Ty Simpson, trades and first-round surprises

From Ty Simpson's draft position to potential trades and surprise first-round picks, here are the top storylines to follow in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:50pm

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The 2026 NFL Draft is just three weeks away, and there are several intriguing storylines to watch. The consensus QB2 in this class, Ty Simpson, has become a major talking point, with some experts believing he could be selected ahead of Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza. Additionally, trades and surprise first-round picks are always a focus, with players like A.J. Brown and Brandon Aiyuk potentially on the move. The draft is also loaded with talented wide receivers, running backs, and pass rushers that could shake up the first round.

Why it matters

The NFL Draft is one of the most anticipated events in sports, as teams look to add impact players that can help transform their franchises. These key storylines will shape how the draft unfolds, with teams potentially trading up or down to target specific prospects, and surprise selections shaking up draft boards. The decisions made during the draft can have long-lasting effects on a team's future success.

The details

Ty Simpson, the Alabama quarterback, has quickly become one of the biggest storylines of the 2026 NFL Draft. Some experts, including former QB Dan Orlovsky, believe Simpson is a better NFL prospect than Mendoza, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner. However, others have struggled to find a clear first-round landing spot for Simpson. The Arizona Cardinals at No. 3 overall and the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 21 could be potential destinations, but the consensus seems to be that a team will trade up to select Simpson in the back half of the first round. Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love is also a top storyline, as he is viewed by some as the best player in the draft. Love could go as high as No. 4 overall to the Tennessee Titans, and is also linked to the Washington Commanders at No. 7. Trades are always a major focus, and players like Philadelphia's A.J. Brown and San Francisco's Brandon Aiyuk could be on the move during the draft. Additionally, there are several pass rushers and wide receivers expected to be surprise first-round selections, including prospects like Anthony Hill Jr., Jake Golday, and Makai Lemon.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is three weeks away (April 24-26, 2026).
  • Ty Simpson had a strong start to the 2025 season, averaging 273.4 passing yards per game with 21 touchdowns and 1 interception through the first 9 games. However, he struggled down the stretch, averaging 184.3 passing yards per game with 7 touchdowns and 4 interceptions in the final 6 games.
  • Jeremiyah Love led the FBS in rushing touchdowns (35) and scrimmage touchdowns (40) over the last two seasons.

The players

Ty Simpson

The Alabama quarterback is viewed by some experts as a better NFL prospect than Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza. Simpson had a strong start to the 2025 season before struggling down the stretch.

Jeremiyah Love

The Notre Dame running back is viewed by some as the best player in the 2026 NFL Draft. Love led the FBS in rushing touchdowns (35) and scrimmage touchdowns (40) over the last two seasons.

A.J. Brown

The Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver has been the subject of trade rumors, as he failed to catch a pass in seven different halves of games in 2025.

Brandon Aiyuk

The San Francisco 49ers wide receiver is expected to be traded or released, as the team has voided his remaining contract guarantees.

Fernando Mendoza

The Indiana quarterback is expected to be the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders.

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What they’re saying

“Ty Simpson is a better NFL prospect than Fernando Mendoza.”

— Dan Orlovsky, Former NFL quarterback

“Multiple NFL teams like Ty Simpson more than the reigning Heisman Trophy winner.”

— Mike Tannenbaum, ESPN analyst

“It's tough to find a landing spot in the first 32 picks for Ty Simpson.”

— Matt Miller, ESPN analyst

What’s next

The judge in the Ty Simpson case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow him out on bail.

The takeaway

The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event, with several high-profile storylines to follow. From the debate around Ty Simpson's draft position to potential trades and surprise first-round picks, this year's draft promises to be full of intrigue and drama as teams look to add impact players that can transform their franchises.