2026 NFL Draft: Colin Cowherd Unveils Mock Draft 2.0 Based on NFL Sources

Cowherd projects top picks, including Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza and Ohio State stars

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:25pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, multi-perspective painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, breaking a football game down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes of vibrant colors representing the competing teams' uniforms.Cowherd's latest NFL mock draft offers a cubist view of the upcoming draft, with top prospects like Mendoza and Reese emerging from a fractured, geometric field of play.Whitehouse Today

With just two weeks remaining before the 2026 NFL Draft, sports commentator Colin Cowherd has released his latest mock draft, making predictions based on information from league sources. Cowherd's top-15 picks include several high-profile prospects, such as Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese, and Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love.

Why it matters

Cowherd's mock draft provides valuable insight into how NFL teams may approach the upcoming draft, offering clues about potential team needs and player selections. As one of the most prominent voices in sports media, Cowherd's projections carry significant weight and can influence pre-draft discussions and speculation.

The details

Cowherd's mock draft has the Las Vegas Raiders selecting Mendoza, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner and national champion, with the first overall pick. The New York Jets are projected to take Reese, a standout Ohio State linebacker, at number two, while the Arizona Cardinals are expected to bolster their defense with Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey at number three. Other notable picks include Notre Dame's Love going to the Tennessee Titans at number four, and Ohio State's Sonny Styles landing with the New York Giants at number five.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is only 2 weeks away.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The reigning Heisman Trophy winner and national champion quarterback from Indiana University.

Arvell Reese

A standout linebacker from Ohio State University, a reigning First Team All-American and First Team All-Big Ten selection.

David Bailey

An edge rusher from Texas Tech University, who emerged as one of the biggest game-wreckers in college football last season.

Jeremiyah Love

A star running back from the University of Notre Dame, a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2025 and the recipient of the Doak Walker Award.

Sonny Styles

A linebacker from Ohio State University, who impressed at the NFL Scouting Combine with a 4.46 40-yard dash and a 43.5" vertical jump.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

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 case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.