Chiefs Trade Up, Shake Up First Round of 2026 NFL Draft

CBS Sports' Tom Fornelli projects a blockbuster trade between the Chiefs and Cardinals in his latest mock draft

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:27pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the top prospects of the 2026 NFL Draft, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors representing the dynamic talent and potential of the incoming class of players.The 2026 NFL Draft promises to be a transformative event, with several elite prospects set to reshape the league's landscape.New Orleans Today

In his latest 2026 NFL mock draft, CBS Sports' Tom Fornelli projects a major trade between the Kansas City Chiefs and Arizona Cardinals that shakes up the top of the first round. The Chiefs are projected to trade up to the No. 3 overall pick, where they select Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey. The draft is loaded with top talent, including Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, Heisman runner-up Jeremiyah Love, and Ohio State standout Sonny Styles.

Why it matters

The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with several elite prospects at the top of the board. The potential Chiefs-Cardinals trade would be a blockbuster that could significantly impact the draft order and the fortunes of multiple teams. This mock draft provides an early look at how the first round could unfold, with major implications for teams looking to reload their rosters and contend for the playoffs.

The details

In Fornelli's mock, the Las Vegas Raiders select Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick, while the New York Jets take Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese at No. 2. The Chiefs then trade up to No. 3, where they select Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey. The Tennessee Titans are projected to take Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love at No. 4, and the New York Giants select Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles at No. 5.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in just 21 days.
  • The draft is seen as weak in some areas but strong in others, with several notable prospects projected to be selected in the first round.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The reigning Heisman Trophy winner and National Champion, Mendoza passed for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns with just six interceptions, leading Indiana to an undefeated season and a national title.

Arvell Reese

A reigning First Team All-American and First Team All-Big Ten selection, Reese recorded 112 tackles, seven sacks, and two pass deflections across two seasons at Ohio State.

David Bailey

The Texas Tech edge rusher recorded 52 tackles, 14.5 sacks, three pass deflections, and three forced fumbles last season, helping the Red Raiders win the Big 12 Championship and reach the College Football Playoff.

Jeremiyah Love

The Notre Dame running back was a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2025 after rushing for 2,882 yards and 36 touchdowns over his three-year college career.

Sonny Styles

The Ohio State linebacker wowed at the NFL Scouting Combine with a 4.46 40-yard dash and 43.5-inch vertical jump, cementing his status as a projected top-five pick.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This mock draft highlights the depth and star power of the 2026 NFL Draft class, with several elite prospects projected to be selected early. The potential Chiefs-Cardinals trade would be a blockbuster that could significantly impact the draft order and the fortunes of multiple teams looking to reload their rosters and contend for the playoffs.