2026 NFL Draft Order Taking Shape as Season Progresses
Early projections for the 2026 NFL Draft order are beginning to solidify as teams approach the midpoint of the current season, with several struggling franchises positioned to secure top picks.
As of today, October 7, 2025, the New York Giants currently hold the No. 1 overall pick, followed by the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 2 and the New York Jets at No. 3, according to projections based on current win-loss records and remaining schedules. The Giants, despite a .500 record with Jaxson Dart at quarterback, face a challenging schedule and have been significantly impacted by injuries, including a season-ending injury to wide receiver Malik Nabers. The Raiders, with a 1-4 record, have seen an underwhelming start to the Geno Smith-Raiders partnership.
The Jets’ potential high draft position may come as a surprise, but analysts note their roster has the potential to steal wins against favorable opponents. The Arizona Cardinals, Tennessee Titans, Miami Dolphins, Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and Cincinnati Bengals round out the projected top 10. The Bengals’ outlook is particularly uncertain due to the injury to quarterback Joe Burrow, which could significantly alter their draft position depending on his return. For more in-depth draft analysis, visit CBSSports.com’s draft coverage.
These projections are, of course, subject to change as the season progresses, with injuries and trades likely to reshape the landscape. The 2026 NFL Draft will be held from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, and teams will be closely monitoring these developments as they prepare for the future. The NFL continues to be a dynamic league where fortunes can change quickly.
