VOL. 4: The Foundation of a Franchise: Inside the 2026 NFL Draft

While the Super Bowl signifies the end of football for many fans across the globe, the NFL has a large group of fans who are just as passionate about another major event in April: the NFL Draft.

The draft consists of seven rounds, with each team granted one pick per round based on its record from the previous season. While offseason headlines are often dominated by massive free-agent contracts, most general managers would argue that the draft is the foundation of sustained success. A player of Drake Maye’s caliber might command up to $60 million on the open market, but his rookie contract pays a fraction of that annually. This system allows teams to build efficiently by acquiring elite talent at a controlled cost.

The 2026 NFL Draft, now just one month away, features a number of intriguing prospects that teams hope will fuel that kind of efficient team-building. The projected first overall pick is Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana. Mendoza began his career at Cal before transferring, eventually leading Indiana to a historic season capped by a Heisman Trophy and national championship. The real intrigue begins at pick No. 2, where the New York Jets—who have needs across their roster—face a critical decision.

As of March 24th, the most likely options include Arvelle Reese, a linebacker from Ohio State, and David Bailey, an edge rusher from Texas Tech. Both are explosive athletes capable of making an immediate impact. The Arizona Cardinals, selecting third, also have several viable directions. They could opt for the best player available in Jeremiah Love or address the defensive front with Bailey. Regardless, this pick will be pivotal for a franchise searching for long-term success.

While top picks generate the most attention, teams cannot build sustainably without finding value in the middle and later rounds. The New Orleans Saints’ 2017 draft class is a prime example. Beyond their first-round success, they found elite contributors later in the draft, including multiple All-Pro players. Marcus Williams (second round) and Alex Anzalone (third round) also became key contributors. This underscores how strong drafting across all rounds can reshape a franchise. 

Looking ahead to 2026, there is once again intriguing talent beyond the first round. Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. turned heads with a sub-4.4 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and showcased strong on-field production. With the running back position regaining value, teams may target players like Washington on Day 2 or 3. Similarly, Michigan’s Derrick Moore demonstrated consistent production in college. While his testing numbers may not stand out, he projects as a reliable three-down player at the next level.

Although many fans point to this draft class’s lack of high-end quarterback depth, it compensates with a deep pool of defensive talent. Teams in need of defensive reinforcements should find plenty of options throughout the draft.

Additionally, several wide receivers in this class have the potential to make an immediate impact. Of course, even the most experienced scouts cannot perfectly predict a player’s career trajectory, making it difficult to fully evaluate a draft class in real time. Still, this year’s group appears to offer a strong foundation of NFL-ready talent, giving it a relatively high floor. Ultimately, a player’s success is heavily influenced by the situation they enter. Over the next five weeks, hundreds of young athletes will hear their names called and begin their journey to shape the next era of the NFL.