On Wednesday, ESPN’s Field Yates put together his Round 1 mock draft for the 2026 event, and he included 11 SEC football standouts in the first 32 picks. That’s a lower number than we’ve seen the SEC produce in recent years, so we’ll see if more guys work their way into the Round 1 mix this fall.

The mock draft opens with Manning to the Browns. The 6-foot-4 sophomore will begin this season as the Texas Longhorns ’ starter. His bloodline includes Peyton and Eli Manning, but Yates noted Arch’s mobility as a key difference from his uncles.

If Justin Fields doesn’t work out for the New York Jets, their quarterback of the future may be in next year’s draft.

Could Arch Manning go No. 1? Will QBs dominate the first round? Which teams could land playmakers? Field Yates projects next year's opening 32 picks.

On Wednesday, ESPN’s Field Yates released his 2026 NFL mock draft for the first round, which included two Florida players: one offensive and one defensive lineman.

The Green Bay Packers draft an Oregon Ducks sack monster in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft in a new prediction. Would outside linebacker Matayo Uiagalelei be a good fit for Green Bay? Uiagalelei led the Big Ten Conference in sacks last season.