B/R NFL Scouting Dept's 2026 NFL Mock Draft Before Week 1

The 2025 college football season's Week 1 performances have begun to shift perceptions of the 2026 NFL draft class, though early showings are only one part of ongoing evaluations. A mock draft from Bleacher Report's scouting department highlights several key prospects, noting that player assessments will continue to evolve.

Quarterback LaNorris Sellers is noted for his significant upside, with a strong physical build at 6'3" and 240 pounds, impressive movement skills, and powerful throwing ability. His performance against Virginia Tech demonstrated his dominant tools, particularly his ability to create plays with his legs. However, he currently operates in a simplified offense, often making single reads before running, and needs to improve his pocket awareness. The New Orleans Saints, in need of a franchise quarterback, see high potential in Sellers but acknowledge he will require substantial development time.

Miami defensive end Rueben Bain Jr. emerged as one of the most impressive prospects in Week 1, reinforcing his status as a potential top-10 talent. After an injury-slowed 2023 season, he returned to the form that earned him ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year, with a strong performance against Notre Dame that included six tackles, half a sack, and an interception. With good size and movement skills, he is viewed as a potential ideal pairing with Myles Garrett for the Cleveland Browns, who are seeking to address roster gaps.

Arch Manning's difficult Week 1 start against Ohio State is seen as part of a longer evaluation process, with expectations that he will improve as Texas' season progresses. His draft stock remains projection-based, as he struggled against a talented defense in a challenging environment, though he did show flashes with some high-level throws. His overall assessment will depend on how he develops throughout the season.