Projected Top Five Picks for 2026 NFL Draft Based on Betting Odds

The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to occur in the coming years, with betting odds providing early projections on team selections. According to USA Today, these odds from BetMGM offer insights into potential top picks based on current evaluations of college players.

While drafts can be influenced by various factors such as team needs and player performances, the odds serve as a reference for anticipated outcomes.

For the first overall pick, USA Today reported that the Las Vegas Raiders are favored to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza from Indiana, with odds listed at -10000. This projection suggests a strong consensus around Mendoza's position as a top prospect. Factors such as his skills and the Raiders' needs contribute to this expectation, though no selection is final until the draft occurs.

In the second spot, the New York Jets are projected to pick edge rusher or linebacker Arvell Reese from Ohio State, with odds at -275, as per USA Today. Reese is ranked No. 1 on USA TODAY Sports' 2026 big board, indicating his high evaluation among prospects. The Jets may consider him for his potential impact on defense, possibly as an edge player or off-ball linebacker.

For the third pick, USA Today indicated that the Arizona Cardinals are likely to choose edge rusher David Bailey from Texas Tech, with odds at +220. Miami's offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa follows at +280, showing multiple options for the Cardinals.

With the first two picks expected to be Mendoza and Reese, this selection highlights the team's strategic choices based on player profiles and team requirements.

The fourth projected pick has the Tennessee Titans selecting running back Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame, with odds at +135, according to USA Today. This choice aligns with efforts to build offensive talent around quarterback Cam Ward. While the Titans could prioritize defense, the odds suggest a focus on offensive playmakers like Love.