Fans tuned in expecting drama, and drama they got. The 2026 NFL Draft did not disappoint. Yankee Scores reports from predictable picks to shocking moves. Round 1 kept everyone guessing.
Raiders Secure Their Franchise QB
Las Vegas wasted no time, selecting Fernando Mendoza at No. 1. The Heisman winner was the top prospect on nearly every board, and his accuracy plus mobility make him the centerpiece of the Raiders’ future. With recent first‑rounders Ashton Jeanty and Brock Bowers already in place, new coach Klint Kubiak has a strong offensive core to build around.
Cardinals Shake Things Up
At No. 3, Arizona stunned many by taking Jeremiyah Love, a trade a lot of fans did not anticipate. While some questioned a running back this high, Love is more than that a versatile playmaker with blazing speed who can line up anywhere. Coach Mike LaFleur now has a dynamic weapon to energize a bland offense.
Browns Fill Key Needs
Cleveland traded back and still landed offensive tackle Spencer Fano at No. 9, then added receiver KC Concepcion at No. 24. General manager Andrew Berry addressed both pressing needs while picking up extra draft capital. Fano’s versatility on the line could be a cornerstone for years to come. For Fano, he is probably the best Lineman they could’ve picked from the draft. He looked genuinely happy about joining the Browns, joking in an interview that at least he won’t have to line up against Myles Garrett on Sundays.
THE MOMENT SPENCER FANO BECAME A CLEVELAND BROWN 🔥🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/3NsiRc55WW
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) April 24, 2026
Cowboys Add Defensive Firepower
Dallas moved up to grab safety Caleb Downs at No. 11, a culture‑changing defender who diagnoses plays and limits big gains. Later, they traded back and still landed edge rusher Malachi Lawrence at No. 23. With a top‑five offense already in place, these defensive upgrades were crucial.
The moment Caleb Downs got the call from Dallas 🔥🔥🔥⭐ pic.twitter.com/IpYsNQhgF5
— Downs 2 Business (@downs2business) April 24, 2026
Questionable Calls
Not every team nailed it. The Rams raised eyebrows by taking quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 13, despite more immediate needs for Matthew Stafford’s win‑now roster. The Chiefs reached for cornerback Mansoor Delane at No. 6, giving up draft capital in the process. And Minnesota’s selection of Caleb Banks at No. 18 felt like the biggest stretch of the night.
Looking Ahead
With 32 picks in the books. Day 2 promises more intrigue, with names like Denzel Boston and Zion Young still on the board.
