Top Insights from Daniel Jeremiah’s 2026 NFL Draft Predictions
With the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine just around the corner, you can feel the buzz among football fans. NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah has started dropping his thoughts during his annual pre-Combine conference call.
Jeremiah’s insights offer a kind of unofficial map for teams hoping to make smart moves in the draft. From quarterback trades to sleeper picks, let’s dig into the seven biggest storylines shaping up for the 2026 NFL Draft.
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Potential QB Trade Targets for the Jets
The New York Jets are in a tricky spot with the second overall pick. Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza is almost a lock to go first overall to the Raiders, but the Jets still don’t have a clear plan at quarterback.
Jeremiah thinks the Jets should consider trading for experienced backups like the Eagles’ Tanner McKee or the Texans’ Davis Mills instead of grabbing a QB at No. 2. He leans toward building up the trenches and gathering more draft picks for next year.
Building for the Future
Jeremiah says the Jets would be wise to focus on their offensive and defensive lines. That way, they’re setting themselves up to draft a franchise quarterback later on, when the timing feels right.
He argues that entering next season with extra picks and a stronger foundation in the trenches is probably their best bet. It’s not flashy, but it’s smart.
Draft Prospect with the Most to Gain
Keep an eye on Alabama’s Ty Simpson as draft season heats up. Even though he’s currently ranked as the No. 40 prospect, Simpson could climb the boards fast.
His interviews and how he handles the evaluation process will be huge for his draft stock. Teams like the Jets, Cardinals, Browns, Dolphins, and Steelers are all curious if Simpson’s late-season dip was due to injury or something else.
High Stakes for Ty Simpson
Simpson’s story is pretty compelling. As the son of a college head coach, he’s got the football smarts and leadership teams love.
Still, the lingering question is whether injuries were behind his struggles, or if there’s more to it. Teams will be digging deep to figure that out.
WR Fits for Bills
The Buffalo Bills are searching for a big-play receiver to give Josh Allen some help. Jeremiah lists a few names who could fit if the Bills wait until after Round 1.
Louisville’s Chris Bell, even coming off ACL surgery, could be a smart pick at 60th overall. Baylor’s Josh Cameron, Georgia State’s Ted Hurst, Indiana’s Elijah Sarratt, and Texas Tech’s Reggie Virgil are also on his list.
Value Picks in Later Rounds
Jeremiah stresses how important it is to find a bigger receiver who can win those tough, contested catches. Chris Bell stands out for his physicality and knack for making plays deep.
The Bills might just get a steal by targeting these guys in rounds two or three. Sometimes patience pays off.
Bears’ Win-Win Situation
The Chicago Bears are sitting pretty with the 25th overall pick. Jeremiah thinks they’re in a good spot, no matter how things shake out.
They need help at edge rusher and offensive tackle, and there should be plenty of talent left at those positions when they’re on the clock.
Key Targets for the Bears
Some possible edge rusher targets: Keldric Faulk, Cashius Howell, Akheem Mesidor, T.J. Parker, R Mason Thomas, and Zion Young. On the O-line, names like Monroe Freeling, Max Iheanachor, Caleb Lomu, Blake Miller, and Kadyn Proctor could be in play.
The Bears can afford to be patient and let the board come to them. Not a bad place to be.
Sneaky RB1 Option for Broncos
The Denver Broncos could use a running back, with J.K. Dobbins’ contract up and RJ Harvey’s rookie season being kind of a mixed bag. Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love is the top RB prospect, but Jeremiah is also high on another Irish back, Jadarian Price.
Price has the versatility and skill set to be a true three-down back, which makes him a pretty exciting option for Denver.
A Complete Back
Jeremiah believes Price has what it takes to be a No. 1 back. Even though he played behind Love, Price’s all-around ability stands out.
Pairing him with Harvey could give the Broncos a pretty dynamic duo in the backfield. It’s an idea worth considering.
Best Bang for Patriots’ Buck
The New England Patriots want to reload after a Super Bowl run. Adding weapons for Drake Maye is important, sure, but Jeremiah thinks the best value might actually be on defense.
Missouri’s Zion Young is a possible pick at No. 31, and he could bring a lot to Mike Vrabel’s defense.
Defensive Value Late in Round 1
Investing in defensive linemen is never a bad call, according to Jeremiah. He figures the Patriots can find good receivers later in the draft, so going defense early could be the smarter move.
Building up that defense just might help the Patriots stay near the top.
Stock Set to Surge?
Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman is a name to watch at the combine. He’s currently Jeremiah’s No. 25 prospect, but that could change fast.
Thieneman’s athleticism and explosiveness are expected to pop in Indianapolis. Jeremiah predicts his stock will rise once teams see him up close.
Athleticism on Display
Thieneman’s performance at the combine could really shape how teams view him in the draft. Jeremiah thinks Thieneman will turn heads with his speed and explosiveness.
That kind of athleticism? It could make him a hot commodity for teams desperate for a dynamic safety. If that’s your team’s need, you might want to keep an eye on him.
For more details and the latest on draft developments, check out the full article on the NFL website.
