Key Selections Highlight First Round of 2026 NFL Draft
The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft featured notable picks including a linebacker at No. 2 and a running back with the final selection. Teams made strategic moves, such as a trade for a wide receiver, amid discussions of unusual draft decisions. Historical milestones were achieved with running backs from the same school.
ForbesThe first round of the 2026 NFL Draft took place on Thursday night, with several high-profile selections drawing attention.
One source noted that there had never been such a feat for the Fighting Irish before. There never had been a year in which the top two running backs were selected from the same school. Now both Jeremiyah Love and Price accomplished that feat for the Fighting Irish.
A year after Shedeur Sanders’ stunning fall from first-round hopeful to late-round draft pick, another perplexing passer was all the buzz at the NFL draft Thursday night. There truly will be some introductory handshakes and greetings when the quarterback arrives to the team's facility.
The Eagles made a trade with the division rival Cowboys and selected a wide receiver with the No. 20 pick. This trade occurred amid buzz about another player.
A running back's selection by the Seahawks has implications for 2026 fantasy football, as outlined in one analysis. The draft's first round included a mix of positions, with linebackers, running backs, wide receivers, and quarterbacks highlighted across reports.
With the final pick of Thursday night’s first round, the Seahawks selected a running back.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
4 events- Apr 23, 2026
Seahawks selected Notre Dame RB Jadarian Price with the final first-round pick.
3 sources@AdamSchefter · Forbes · ESPN - Apr 23, 2026
Eagles traded with Cowboys to select USC WR Makai Lemon at No. 20.
1 sourceESPN - Apr 23, 2026
Jets selected Texas Tech LB David Bailey at No. 2 overall.
1 sourcenypost.com - 2025 NFL Draft
Shedeur Sanders fell from first-round hopeful to late-round pick.
1 source@AP
Potential Impact
- 01
Jets bolster defense with early linebacker selection.
- 02
Seahawks' roster strengthens with new running back addition.
- 03
Eagles improve receiving options through trade.
- 04
Fantasy football drafters prioritize Jadarian Price higher.
- 05
Rams integrate Ty Simpson despite lack of prior contact.
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