Sports Illustrated’s 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Highlighting the Top 10 Prospects

Sports Illustrated’s latest 2026 NFL mock draft offers a glimpse at how the next draft class could shake out, with a healthy mix of quarterback talent and impact defenders projected at the top of the board. While the full mock isn’t freely accessible, SI’s coverage and big board rankings reveal the players drawing the most buzz among scouts and evaluators as draft season approaches.
NFL Mock Draft Database

At the top of SI’s player rankings sits edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. (Miami), a disruptive force off the edge who has drawn comparisons to high-impact pass rushers because of his length and power. His presence atop the board underscores how elite edge defenders remain premium commodities.

Joining Bain among the premier prospects are elite secondary and offensive talent. Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State) is widely regarded as one of the most complete wideouts in the class, combining size, route precision, and contested-catch ability. Caleb Downs (Ohio State) stands out as a true playmaker in the defensive backfield with range, instincts, and versatility that could elevate a team’s secondary early in his career.

Offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa (Miami) is another top name, offering elite size and athleticism on the line that could make him one of the first blockers off the board. Mauigoa’s combination of power and mobility projects well in both pass protection and run schemes.

Beyond those core names, Flick’s board includes other high-end prospects likely to hear their names early. Dynamic edge rusher T.J. Parker (Clemson) and fellow pass-rush threat Keldric Faulk (Auburn) both bring disruptive potential that NFL defenses crave. Garrett Nussmeier (LSU) remains a notable quarterback prospect with pro-style accuracy and experience against strong competition. Ashton Stamps (LSU) is among the top cover corners in college football, while Peter Woods (Clemson) anchors the interior defensive line with power and run-stopping ability. Nick Singleton (Penn State) rounds out the early look as one of the best running backs in the class, blending power and explosiveness.

SI’s 2026 mock emphasizes how deep and varied this draft class could be, with talent across key positions and multiple prospects capable of becoming foundational pieces for rebuilding NFL franchises.