Indiana Football's 2026 NFL Draft Success: Record-Breaking Selections BLOOMINGTON — The Indiana football program continued its momentum following a perfect national championship season by securing a historic performance in the 2026 NFL Draft. For the first time in program history, Indiana had two players selected in the first round, marking a significant milestone after a 22-year gap since the last first-round pick. The draft, held in Pittsburgh, saw multiple Hoosiers drafted across multiple rounds, reflecting the team’s growing national reputation and the impact of its championship-winning season. The Las Vegas Raiders made a statement by selecting Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. Mendoza, a standout performer during Indiana’s undefeated campaign, became the first Hoosier to be drafted first overall in program history. His selection was widely anticipated, given his elite arm strength, leadership on the field, and consistent production throughout the season. The New York Jets followed up with a blockbuster move by drafting Indiana receiver Omar Cooper Jr. with the No. 30th pick in the first round. The Jets traded back into the bottom of the first round to secure Cooper, a former standout receiver known for his route-running precision and ability to make plays in critical moments. His selection was a testament to his development during the 2025 season, where he emerged as one of the nation’s top wideouts. The Jets’ draft night continued with the selection of Indiana cornerback D’Angelo Ponds at the 50th pick in the second round. Ponds, a former teammate of Cooper, will reunite with his IU teammate in New York. Ponds’ selection highlighted his versatility as a coverage specialist and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.#las_vegas_raiders #baltimore_ravens #san_francisco_49ers #new_york_jets #indiana_football
Detroit Lions Trade Up to Select Derrick Moore with No. 44 Pick in NFL Draft The Detroit Lions made a significant move in the 2026 NFL draft by trading up to secure University of Michigan edge rusher Derrick Moore with the No. 44 pick in the second round. The trade involved sending the New York Jets’ second-round pick (No. 50) and fourth-round pick (No. 128) to acquire the 44th selection, which places Moore alongside fellow Michigan alum Aidan Hutchinson on the defensive line. This decision marks a strategic effort by the Lions to bolster their defensive edge, a critical area of focus for the team’s rebuild. Moore, a standout performer for the Michigan Wolverines, has steadily evolved into one of the Big Ten’s premier pass rushers. His college career saw consistent growth, with his breakout season coming in 2025. During that year, he was named first-team All-Big Ten and served as a team captain, leading the Wolverines with 10.5 tackles for loss and 10 sacks. His production included 30 tackles, three pass breakups, and two forced fumbles, solidifying his reputation as a physical and technical threat. Moore’s development has been marked by incremental improvements. In 2022, he recorded eight tackles and two sacks as a reserve, while his 2023 season saw him earn honorable mention All-Big Ten honors with 34 tackles, six for loss, and five sacks. By 2024, he transitioned into a starting role, tallying 23 tackles, six tackles for loss, and four sacks. His ability to generate pressure and disrupt opposing offenses has made him a highly sought-after prospect. Scouts highlight Moore’s combination of size, technique, and timing, which allows him to finish plays effectively. Standing at 6-foot-4 with long arms and a powerful frame, he relies on a bull rush to collapse the pocket and create pressure.#detroit_lions #new_york_jets #university_of_michigan #aidan_hutchinson #derrick_moore

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Jordan Reid's Predictions for 257 Prospects The 2026 NFL draft, set to begin on Thursday from Pittsburgh at 8 p.m. ET, has prompted Jordan Reid to release his comprehensive seven-round mock draft. The exercise covers 257 prospects, reflecting his analysis of the class based on conversations with league insiders, scouting reports, and each team’s positional needs. While no trades are projected, Reid acknowledges the potential for surprises and intrigue as teams navigate their draft strategies. The Las Vegas Raiders, selecting first overall, are expected to prioritize a franchise quarterback. Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana, is the top choice. Mendoza’s combination of size, arm strength, and decision-making ability positions him as a long-term starter. His resilience through adversity in 2025, culminating in an FBS-high 41 touchdown passes and a 16-0 season, solidifies his status as the No. 1 pick. The Raiders’ search for a quarterback has been ongoing, and Mendoza’s performance makes him an ideal fit. The New York Jets, selecting third, face a decision between defensive edge rushers Arvell Reese (Ohio State) and David Bailey (Texas Tech). Reid favors Reese for his upside despite Bailey’s current polish. Reese’s explosive power and versatility as a linebacker or edge rusher align with the Jets’ rebuild, offering a foundational player they can build a scheme around. The Arizona Cardinals, picking fourth, aim to address their offensive line struggles. Francis Mauigoa, an offensive tackle from Miami, is projected to fill the right side. His ability to protect the quarterback and improve the team’s run blocking, which ranked last in the NFL last season, makes him a critical addition.#las_vegas_raiders #new_york_jets #nfl_draft #fernando_mendoza #jordan_reid

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Schrager Projects 32 First-Round Picks The 2026 NFL draft is shaping up as one of the most anticipated events in league history, with 32 first-round selections projected by ESPN analyst Schrager based on current conversations with teams and prospects. While the final order remains fluid, the mock draft highlights key trends, team needs, and potential blockbuster trades. The Raiders, Giants, and Chiefs are among the teams making bold moves, while defensive upgrades and offensive firepower remain central priorities. The Las Vegas Raiders, bolstered by the arrival of quarterback Kirk Cousins, are expected to select Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza with the first pick. Mendoza, a franchise-caliber quarterback with elite arm strength and decision-making, is seen as the ideal fit for Cousins’ system. The Raiders’ strategy will focus on building a supporting cast around Mendoza, with nine additional first-round picks to address needs at edge rusher, linebacker, and offensive line. New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas is targeting David Bailey, a polished edge rusher from Texas Tech, to complement Cousins’ presence. Bailey’s 14.5 sacks in 2025 and proven pass-rushing ability make him a top-tier option, though the Jets may also consider Ohio State’s Arvell Reese if he remains available. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals, facing a brutal NFC West schedule, are prioritizing defensive upgrades. Reese, a versatile edge rusher with elite athleticism, is projected to be their second pick. His potential to disrupt opposing offenses aligns with Arizona’s need for a generational pass-rushing talent. Tennessee Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi has signaled a preference for players with “waves” of pass-rushing ability, which could influence their selection of either Bailey or Reese.#las_vegas_raiders #arizona_cardinals #new_york_jets #2026_nfl_draft #espn_analyst_schrager

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Full Seven-Round Projections for All 32 Teams The 2026 NFL Draft is set for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, with fans already speculating on how teams might build their rosters through seven rounds. This mock draft explores potential selections, highlighting key needs and strategic choices for each franchise. While the draft is expected to be competitive, it lacks a clear standout crop of All-Pro caliber prospects, with many top talents playing positions rarely selected in the early rounds. Teams are advised to focus on long-term development rather than rigidly adhering to mock draft predictions. The draft will feature 32 teams, with five—Jaguars, Falcons, Colts, Packers, and Broncos—missing first-round picks. The Las Vegas Raiders are projected to select Tyler Linderbaum, a veteran center, to support their young quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, as the team prioritizes offensive line stability. The New York Jets, holding the third overall pick, face a dilemma between selecting a finished product like David Bailey or a high-upside prospect like Arvell Reese. Free agency signings, such as Aaron Glenn’s potential impact, may influence this decision. The Arizona Cardinals, picking 10th, are expected to target Sonny Styles, a top linebacker, despite the team’s need for offensive line help. Styles’ selection underscores the value of defensive versatility over positional necessity. The Tennessee Titans, at 19th, aim to bolster their pass rush with David Bailey, a Stanford transfer with improved athleticism, complementing Jermaine Johnson II’s edge-setting abilities. The New York Giants, at 9th, are projected to take Jermod McCoy, a cornerback with potential to join Derek Stingley Jr. and Patrick Surtain II in elite coverage.#new_york_jets #nfl_draft #tyler_linderbaum #fernando_mendoza #david_bailey

Eagles sign former Jets TE Stone Smartt to a 1-year deal The Philadelphia Eagles have agreed to a one-year contract with former New York Jets tight end Stone Smartt, according to NFL reporter Ian Rapoport. The move adds depth to the team’s offensive options, leveraging Smartt’s versatility as a former college quarterback who has transitioned to the tight end position. Smartt, 27, will join a roster that already features established tight ends Dallas Goedert and Grant Calcaterra, both of whom have returned from injury or hiatus. In his most recent stint with the Jets during the 2025 season, Smartt played primarily on special teams and contributed minimally on offense. Over 15 games, he caught seven of nine targets for 52 yards, with at least one target in only three of those appearances. His role was limited due to the presence of more experienced tight ends like Mason Taylor, who was the primary target in the Jets’ passing game. Smartt’s NFL career has been marked by limited production. Over three seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers, he recorded just one touchdown catch in 53 regular-season games. He joined the Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2022 after playing college football as a quarterback for Old Dominion. By his final season at the collegiate level, he had shifted to wide receiver before transitioning to tight end in the NFL. Standing at 6-foot-4 and 226 pounds, Smartt is more of a pass-catcher than a run-blocker, which aligns with the Eagles’ need for a versatile tight end who can contribute in multiple facets of the offense. His signing suggests the team is looking to bolster its options in a position group that has seen significant turnover in recent years.#philadelphia_eagles #ian_rapoport #dallas_goedert #new_york_jets #stone_smartt

Eagles agree to one-year deal with TE Stone Smartt Philadelphia has reached a one-year agreement with tight end Stone Smartt, according to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport. The 27-year-old player last competed in the AFC East before joining the Eagles. Smartt spent the 2025 season with the New York Jets, appearing in 15 games including one start. His role was primarily on special teams, and he recorded seven receptions for 52 yards during the season. The tight end, a former college quarterback, began his professional career with the Los Angeles Chargers after going undrafted in 2022. Over his first three seasons with the team, he played in 53 games. In those contests, Smartt accumulated 38 receptions for 432 yards and scored one touchdown.#ian_rapoport #philadelphia #nfl_media #new_york_jets #stone_smartt

New York Giants Reach Agreement with Safety Jason Pinnock The New York Giants have reached an agreement with safety Jason Pinnock, pending a physical examination. The move marks Pinnock’s return to the team after a season with the San Francisco 49ers, where he made 17 appearances and started seven games. Prior to joining the 49ers, Pinnock spent three seasons with the Giants from 2022 to 2024, during which he played in 46 games and started 37. Throughout his career, Pinnock has accumulated notable statistics, including 263 total tackles (13 for loss), 11 passes defensed, 11 quarterback hits, 6.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and two interceptions. His most memorable play for the Giants came in 2023, when he intercepted a pass and returned it 102 yards for a touchdown. This performance tied him with Erich Barnes for the longest interception return in Giants history, as Barnes achieved the same feat in 1961 against the Dallas Cowboys. Pinnock’s 102-yard return also joined Henry Carr’s 101-yard touchdown in 1966 as the third instance in Giants history where an interception was returned at least 100 yards. Pinnock entered the NFL as a fifth-round draft pick by the New York Jets in 2021. Before his professional career, he played college football at the University of Pittsburgh, where he appeared in 42 games over four seasons (2017–2020). His return to the Giants adds depth to the team’s secondary, particularly with his ability to contribute both as a pass defender and a return specialist. The physical examination is the next step in finalizing the deal, which is expected to be completed soon.#san_francisco_49ers #new_york_giants #new_york_jets #jason_pinnock #university_of_pittsburgh

Breece Hall Jokes About Jets' Contracts in 2026 NFL Free Agency After Getting Franchise Tag New York Jets running back Breece Hall expressed lighthearted comments about the team’s aggressive spending during the 2026 NFL free agency period, following his receipt of the franchise tag. Hall, 24, took to social media to quip, “We sure got a lot of money in Florham Park all these contracts dudes signing,” referencing the Jets’ flurry of deals. The franchise tag, which guarantees him a salary of $14.3 million for the 2026 season, has positioned him as a key player in the team’s long-term plans. While negotiations for a long-term contract remain ongoing, Hall’s guaranteed pay ensures he will remain with the team regardless of the outcome. The Jets have focused their free agency efforts on bolstering their defense, acquiring five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick from the Miami Dolphins in a trade. Fitzpatrick signed a three-year, $40 million contract, marking a significant investment in the team’s secondary. Additionally, the Jets re-signed veteran linebacker Demario Davis to a two-year, $22 million deal, extending his third stint with the franchise. To strengthen their pass-rush, the team added defensive end Joseph Ossai with a three-year, $36 million contract that includes $22.5 million guaranteed, and signed Kingsley Enagbare to a one-year, $10 million deal. Despite the defensive upgrades, the Jets’ priority should remain securing Hall’s future. As the team continues its rebuild under head coach Aaron Glenn, having a reliable playmaker like Hall is critical. His franchise-tagged salary, while substantial, is a temporary measure, and the Jets must address his long-term contract before the July 15 deadline to avoid financial strain.#new_york_jets #breece_hall #minkah_fitzpatrick #aaron_glenn #demario_davis

Jets Running Back Appears to Take Subtle Shot at Team Over Free Agency Deals New York Jets running back Breece Hall appeared to take a subtle shot at the team on Monday as the franchise reportedly came to agreements with multiple defenders at the start of free agency. The Jets placed the nonexclusive franchise tag on Hall last week, preventing him from becoming a restricted free agent. Hall is allowed to negotiate with other teams and sign an offer sheet, but the team has first refusal rights. Hall’s actions came amid reports that the Jets had secured deals with several defensive players during the early stages of free agency. While the specifics of these transactions were not disclosed, the timing of the moves has drawn attention, particularly given Hall’s public comments. The running back, who has been a key player for the Jets in recent seasons, reportedly expressed frustration over the team’s focus on defensive acquisitions while his own contract situation remains unresolved. The franchise tag, a common tool used by NFL teams to retain players, allows the Jets to match any offer Hall receives from other teams. However, the nonexclusive nature of the tag means Hall could still pursue a new opportunity if he believes it offers better long-term value. This situation has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about the Jets’ priorities and how they balance their roster-building strategy with player retention. Hall’s performance on the field has been a bright spot for the Jets, with his ability to break tackles and gain yards in critical moments. His comments, while indirect, suggest a sense of disillusionment with the team’s approach to free agency.#nfl #new_york_jets #breece_hall #free_agency #franchise_tag

TWENTYMAN'S MOCK DRAFT 2.0: Post-Combine Predictions The NFL Scouting Combine has concluded, offering teams new insights into prospects’ potential and areas where players may need further evaluation. With the draft approaching, several franchises are prioritizing specific positions to address their needs. Detroit remains focused on acquiring the best available player, but also faces challenges at center, tackle, edge rusher, cornerback, linebacker, safety, and running back. Here’s a revised mock draft reflecting the latest developments from the Combine. The Raiders are expected to select a quarterback in the first round for the first time since 2007. Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner and national champion from Indiana, is the top quarterback in the class. Mendoza expressed interest in joining the Raiders, citing his desire to learn from Tom Brady in Las Vegas. The New York Jets, with two first-round picks and four in the top 50, aim to bolster their roster with young talent. Their first pick, EDGE David Bailey from Texas Tech, was a tough decision between Bailey and Ohio State’s Arvell Reese. Bailey’s explosive traits and readiness to contribute as a pure edge rusher make him the preferred choice. Bailey recorded 14.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss in 2025, supporting his Combine performance. Arizona’s quarterback situation remains uncertain for 2026, but the Cardinals’ pick at No. 3 leans toward EDGE Arvell Reese. Despite needing offensive line help, Reese’s versatility as a linebacker or edge rusher, combined with his 4.46-second 40-yard dash time at 6-foot-4, 241 pounds, makes him a strong fit. His dynamic Combine performance highlights his potential to impact multiple positions. Tennessee, seeking to improve its defense after ranking 28th in points allowed, selects EDGE Rueben Bain Jr.#raiders #new_york_jets #detroit #nfl_scouting_combine #fernando_mendoza
Eagles Seek Quinnen Williams-Style Trade for A.J. Brown The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly looking for a deal similar to the one that sent defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets to the Dallas Cowboys last season in order to trade wide receiver A.J. Brown. According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the Eagles would require a combination of a first-round pick, a second-round pick, and a player in exchange for Brown. The Quinnen Williams trade involved the Jets receiving a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 first-round pick, and defensive tackle Mazi Smith from the Cowboys. This sets a precedent for the Eagles, who believe they should receive a more substantial package than the one they provided to acquire Brown in 2022. At that time, the Eagles sent a first-round pick and a third-round pick to the Tennessee Titans for Brown’s services. However, the financial implications of trading Brown this year could be more complex. The Eagles would face a higher salary cap hit by trading Brown compared to keeping him. Trading him would result in losing over $20 million in salary cap space, according to reports. This means the Eagles would need to secure significant value in return to justify parting with both their top wide receiver and a substantial amount of cap room. So far, teams have not met the Eagles’ expectations for a trade package. Unless offers improve, Brown is expected to remain with the team. The situation highlights the delicate balance between acquiring assets and managing financial constraints in free agency. A Division of NBCUniversal. Ⓒ 2024 NBC Universal#philadelphia_eagles #mike_garafolo #new_york_jets #dallas_cowboys #a_j_brown
Eagles Seek Quinnen Williams-Style Trade for A.J. Brown The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly looking for a deal similar to the one that sent defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets to the Dallas Cowboys in 2023, according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo. The team is seeking a combination of a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 first-round pick, and a player in exchange for wide receiver A.J. Brown. This would mark a significant upgrade from the 2022 trade that brought Brown to the Eagles, when the team sent a first-round pick and a third-round pick to the Tennessee Titans. Williams was traded to the Cowboys for a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 first-round pick, and defensive tackle Mazi Smith. The Eagles’ current demand reflects a desire to secure more value than the 2022 deal, which involved a first-round pick and a third-round pick. However, the financial implications of trading Brown this year are more complex. The salary cap impact of a potential trade would require the Eagles to relinquish over $20 million in cap space, a significant cost compared to retaining Brown. Keeping Brown would mean preserving a key asset in the team’s offense, but the Eagles are weighing the potential return from a trade. So far, teams have not met the Eagles’ expectations for a deal, and unless offers improve, Brown is likely to remain with the team. The situation highlights the delicate balance between acquiring value through trades and managing financial constraints in the NFL’s salary cap landscape.#philadelphia_eagles #mike_garafolo #new_york_jets #dallas_cowboys #a_j_brown
Mekhi Becton Released by Chargers, Updated Salary Cap for NFL Free Agency Mekhi Becton’s time with the Los Angeles Chargers ended after just one season, with the team releasing him on Wednesday. The move is expected to free up $9.7 million in salary cap space, providing the Chargers with financial flexibility as they navigate the 2026 NFL free agency period. Becton, who was selected by the New York Jets with the 11th overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft, has had a circuitous path through the league. He spent his first four seasons with the Jets before joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024 and then the Chargers in 2025. However, his durability has been a recurring issue, as he was limited to just one game in 2021 and missed the entire 2022 season due to injury. During his brief stint with the Chargers, Becton appeared in 15 games but struggled to make an impact. According to Pro Football Focus, he ranked 81st among guards in run blocking (34.3) and 72nd in pass blocking (45.2) during the 2025 season. His performance contributed to the Chargers’ struggles on the offensive line, which became a significant weakness throughout the year. The offensive line was a major liability for the Chargers, particularly during their playoff loss to the New England Patriots in the 2025 AFC Wild Card Round. Justin Herbert, the team’s quarterback, was sacked six times in that game, highlighting the unit’s inability to protect the passer. With the Chargers looking to improve their offensive front after consecutive playoff exits, Becton’s underwhelming performance made him a logical candidate for release. The $9.7 million cap savings from Becton’s release could allow the Chargers to invest in new talent during the offseason, addressing the offensive line’s shortcomings.#philadelphia_eagles #new_england_patriots #los_angeles_chargers #new_york_jets #mekhi_becton
Chargers Plan to Release Mekhi Becton The Los Angeles Chargers are set to part ways with veteran guard Mekhi Becton, according to a report by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The team intends to release the player in the coming days, ending his tenure with the franchise after two seasons. Becton, who joined the Chargers in March 2023 via a two-year contract, will not receive any guaranteed money for the 2026 season. The move is expected to free up $9.7 million in salary cap space, though the Chargers will still carry $2.5 million in dead money from Becton’s contract. Becton, a 2020 first-round pick with the New York Jets, made 15 regular-season appearances for the Chargers in 2023, including a start in their playoff loss to the New England Patriots. Despite early career struggles with injuries, he secured a starting role with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024. His contributions helped the Eagles reach Super Bowl LIX, where they fell to the Kansas City Chiefs. This performance led to his eventual signing with the Chargers, though his time with the team appears to be ending. The Chargers’ decision to cut Becton comes as they look to manage their salary cap and reshape their offensive line. While Becton’s production was inconsistent at times, his experience and leadership on the field were noted by coaches and analysts. The move underscores the team’s focus on balancing financial flexibility with competitive depth as they prepare for the 2025 season. Becton’s departure marks the latest adjustment in the Chargers’ roster-building strategy, reflecting the challenges of maintaining a competitive edge in the NFL while navigating contractual obligations and financial constraints. His potential return to the open market could attract interest from other teams seeking a reliable starter at the guard position.#philadelphia_eagles #los_angeles_chargers #new_york_jets #mekhi_becton #super_bowl_liv
Chargers Plan to Release Mekhi Becton The Los Angeles Chargers are reportedly set to release veteran offensive lineman Mekhi Becton in the coming days, marking a significant move in their free agency strategy. According to ESPN reporter Jeremy Fowler, the team will cut ties with Becton, who joined the franchise in 2023 after a two-year contract that did not include guaranteed money for the 2026 season. The decision would free up $9.7 million in salary cap space, though the team would still carry $2.5 million in dead money from Becton’s remaining contract obligations. Becton, a 2020 first-round pick with the New York Jets, has spent the past few seasons as a key contributor for the Chargers. He appeared in 15 regular-season games at right guard during the 2023 season and started the team’s playoff loss to the New England Patriots. Despite early career struggles with injuries, Becton earned a starting role with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024, helping them reach Super Bowl LIX. His performance with the Eagles, which included a strong showing in the postseason, likely played a role in his subsequent deal with the Chargers. The Chargers’ decision to part ways with Becton comes amid ongoing adjustments to their offensive line depth. While Becton’s contributions were notable, the team may be prioritizing younger or more cost-effective options to address potential gaps in their lineup. The move also reflects broader trends in NFL free agency, where teams often seek to manage cap space while balancing long-term development goals. Becton’s release could open opportunities for other free agents to compete for roster spots, particularly as the Chargers continue to shape their 2025 roster.#philadelphia_eagles #los_angeles_chargers #new_york_jets #jeremy_fowler #mekhi_becton
Chargers Release Mekhi Becton in Cost-Cutting Move The Los Angeles Chargers announced the release of guard Mekhi Becton as part of a strategy to reduce financial obligations and manage their salary cap. The move saves the team $9.7 million, with Becton’s contract including a $2.5 million roster bonus due on March 13 and an additional $1 million bonus on March 15. The decision comes as the Chargers enter the offseason with a projected $86 million in salary cap space, allowing them to focus on rebuilding their offensive line. Becton, a 26-year-old six-year veteran, struggled during his time with the Chargers after signing a two-year, $20 million deal in March 2024. His performance declined significantly in 2025, marked by frequent injuries and inconsistent play. He ranked as the 49th-worst guard in pass block win rate (91.2%) and the third-worst lineman in run block win rate (63.4%). Becton played just 72% of snaps during the season, appearing in 15 games—14 of which were starts. The Chargers’ decision to cut ties with Becton was influenced by both his on-field performance and the team’s evolving offensive strategy. Becton, a first-round draft pick by the New York Jets in 2020, endured four injury-plagued seasons with the Jets before finding success with the Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles in 2024. However, his struggles with the Chargers, including vocal frustrations expressed in November 2025, likely contributed to the release. The Chargers’ offensive approach also played a role. Under former offensive coordinator Greg Roman, the team ran a gap-scheme offense that emphasized physicality and relied on large, powerful linemen like Becton.#philadelphia_eagles #los_angeles_chargers #new_york_jets #mekhi_becton #greg_roman
Charles Davis 2026 NFL mock draft 2.1: Cardinals, Seahawks select Notre Dame RBs in Round 1 With the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine now complete, the next phase of the draft process has begun. While prospect evaluations and team needs remain in flux, the free-agent market is set to reshape rosters starting March 11. Pro-day events are also approaching, adding another layer of uncertainty. This stage of the draft is particularly dynamic due to the potential for trades, which could significantly alter the order of the first round. However, for this mock draft, I’ve maintained teams in their current draft positions, focusing on how the first 32 picks might unfold. The Indianapolis Colts selected Indiana quarterback Michael Hargrove with the first overall pick. Despite sitting out a combine workout, Hargrove’s performance at the event earned him strong support from fans. Many believe he will eventually join Tom Brady’s Raiders, though his immediate destination remains uncertain. The New York Jets took Texas Tech edge rusher Jordan Bailey second. Bailey’s standout combine performance solidified his status as the top edge rusher available, and his selection by the Jets aligns with their need for a pass-rushing threat. The Arizona Cardinals selected Notre Dame running back Jordan Smith third. With multiple needs across their roster, adding Smith—a widely regarded top prospect—was seen as a logical starting point. His combination of speed and power makes him a versatile weapon in the Cardinals’ offense. The Tennessee Titans picked Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles fourth. Styles’ combine performance was exceptional, and his tape highlights his ability to make plays in critical moments. The Giants’ selection of Styles, however, was a surprise, as the team’s need for a reliable linebacker was evident.#indianapolis_colts #arizona_cardinals #tennessee_titans #new_york_jets #charles_davis