Charles Davis' 2026 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Cardinals, Seahawks Target Notre Dame Running Backs in Round 1
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine has come and gone, leaving us with another crucial piece of the draft puzzle to consider. However, with free agency on the horizon and teams' needs constantly shifting, the landscape is far from set in stone. As we eagerly await the official start of the free-agency frenzy on Wednesday, March 11, let's dive into Charles Davis' second mock draft, where he predicts the first 32 picks and explores the potential impact of trades. Will the Cardinals and Seahawks make bold moves and select Notre Dame running backs in Round 1? Read on to find out!
1. Raiders: 'The Potentate of Hoosier Land'
Never has a player who skipped a single workout at the combine been so highly anticipated by fans. Despite this, Charles Davis still believes that the highly touted 'Potentate of Hoosier Land' will eventually join Tom Brady's Raiders. Stay tuned to see if this prediction comes true!
2. Jets: Bailey Secures a Spot with Gang Green
In the battle for the first edge rusher off the board, Bailey emerges victorious. His impressive performance at the combine cements his spot with the Jets, who are in dire need of a pass-rushing threat.
3. Cardinals: Adding the Best Player in the Draft
With numerous needs, the Cardinals prioritize addressing their most pressing concern by selecting arguably the best player in the draft. Who will it be? Stay tuned to find out!
4. Titans: Reese, the First Buckeye to be Called
The Ohio State players made a strong showing at the combine. Reese, a standout performer, becomes the first Buckeye to hear his name called by the commissioner, joining the Titans in Music City.
5. Giants: Styles' Outstanding Performance
Styles' tape is exceptional, and his combine performance was nothing short of remarkable. The Giants, recognizing his talent, cannot pass on the opportunity to add him to their roster.
6. Browns: Tate's Speed Impresses
After running a 4.53-second 40-yard dash at the combine, Tate's speed caught the attention of the Browns. Despite initial jokes from Bills GM Brandon Beane, the Browns are seriously considering adding Tate to their team.
7. Commanders: Bain's Forceful Pass-Rushing
The Commanders need a pass rusher with the ability to close in on the quarterback. Bain, with his powerful pass-rushing skills, is the perfect fit for their needs.
8. Saints: Delane's Strong Finish
Following a strong finish to the 2025 season, the Saints bolster their defense by adding Delane, who is expected to contribute immediately.
9. Chiefs: Mauigoa's Versatility
The Chiefs' offensive line is a strength when they are at their best. Mauigoa, a physical player with potential versatility, could slide inside to guard, depending on Andy Reid's preferences. Additionally, the team is releasing OT Jawaan Taylor, creating more opportunities for players like Mauigoa.
10. Bengals: Downs' Coverage and Tackling Skills
The Bengals address their need for improved defensive back coverage by selecting Downs, who excels in both coverage and tackling, ensuring fewer mistakes and better overall performance.
11. Dolphins: Potential Lockdown Corner
With a potential lockdown corner in the mix, the Dolphins' secondary becomes even more formidable. Despite missing all of last season due to an ACL tear and not working out at the combine, this player's pro day will be heavily scrutinized. If he performs well, he could become an immediate starter.
12. Cowboys: McNeil-Warren's Range and Instincts
The Cowboys bolster their defense by selecting McNeil-Warren, who brings range, instincts, and ball skills to the table. His addition provides a much-needed boost to their defensive lineup.
13. Lions: Fano's Versatility
Fano, an easy glider with a big punch, could be a versatile player who can move inside to guard due to his arm measurement falling below the standard for NFL offensive tackles. Alternatively, he could get a look at center if Tyler Linderbaum departs in free agency.
14. Buccaneers: Howell's Production
Head coach Todd Bowles prioritizes creating pressure, and Howell's impressive production (33 tackles for loss, including 25 sacks, in the last three seasons) makes him an attractive pick for the Buccaneers, despite his arm length falling below the standard for his position.
15. Jets: Alabama QB Ty Simpson
While it may feel premature, the Jets could consider selecting Alabama QB Ty Simpson here. Pairing him with Garrett Wilson will undoubtedly help propel the offense forward.
16. Seahawks: Mesidor's Pressing Need
The Seahawks address a pressing need by selecting Mesidor, who will support Pro Bowl edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson. With Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor also in play, the Seahawks have a strong case for either pick.
17. Lions: Thieneman's Top-Notch Skills
Thieneman's athleticism and smarts are top-notch, making him an ideal replacement for one of the best if Harrison Smith decides to retire. His versatility and skills make him a valuable addition to the Lions' defense.
18. Panthers: Banks' Interior Pass Rush
Banks has the potential to significantly enhance the Panthers' interior pass rush once he settles in next to Pro Bowl DT Derrick Brown. His addition provides a much-needed boost to their defensive line.
19. Cowboys: Hood's Defensive Boost
The Cowboys double down on defense in Round 1 by selecting Hood, who joins McNeil-Warren to provide new DC Christian Parker with two talented building blocks in the secondary.
20. Steelers: Boston's Ball Skills
Boston's ball skills, versatility, and toughness make him an ideal fit for the Steelers. His addition brings a much-needed spark to their offense.
21. Chargers: Ioane's Hammer on the Interior
Ioane, a supreme athlete at 352 pounds, can also be a bully on the field. The Chargers, in need of an interior presence, should be thrilled if he's still available at this pick.
22. Eagles: Sadiq's Explosive Potential
If veteran tight end Dallas Goedert reaches free agency, the Eagles can continue to remake their offense by adding the explosive Sadiq. His versatility and playmaking abilities make him an attractive pick.
23. Browns: Howard's Versatility
Despite acquiring Tytus Howard from the Texans, the Browns still need more help for their offensive line. Howard, who has experience at both tackle and guard, could slide inside to provide additional support.
24. Bills: A Playmaker on the Perimeter
The Bills Mafia, known for their passion, will be delighted with the selection of a playmaker on the perimeter. However, if GM Brandon Beane acquires a veteran receiver in free agency, the defense may get the attention here.
25. Niners: Freeling's Learning Opportunity
Presuming the Niners and their All-World OT figure out a way around Trent Williams' $38.8 million cap hit in 2026, Freeling will get a valuable learning opportunity from one of the best before taking over at left tackle.
26. Rams: Iheanachor's Eye-Opening Performance
The Rams could consider selecting Ty Simpson here, but they ultimately add more immediate help for Matthew Stafford in this scenario. Iheanachor, who had an eye-opening Senior Bowl week, is still learning the game but has shown tremendous potential.
27. Broncos: Allen's Talented Addition
The Broncos, boasting one of the top defenses in the NFL in 2025, add the talented Allen to maintain their strong performance. His addition ensures there will be no dropoff in their defensive capabilities.
28. Patriots: Proctor's Starting Spot
Proctor, a supreme athlete at 352 pounds, can also be a bully on the field. The Patriots should be thrilled if he's still available at this pick, as he is poised to earn a starting spot quickly.
29. Seahawks: Price's Shining Moment
With Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III ticketed for free agency and Zach Charbonnet returning from a postseason knee injury, Price, the Golden Domer, has the opportunity to shine for the reigning Super Bowl champions.
