The 2026 NFL Draft is set to commence on Thursday night, with all 32 franchises ready to reshape their futures across seven rounds and 257 selections. This event is not solely about the first overall pick; it is about how swiftly teams can close gaps and position themselves for contention. Early projections already indicate a quarterback-driven start, with Indiana's Fernando Mendoza widely linked to the Las Vegas Raiders. Behind him, defensive talent and offensive line depth are expected to define the top five selections. The schedule is finalized, the order is locked, and attention now turns to how these decisions will unfold in real time.
When Does the 2026 NFL Draft Start?
The 2026 NFL Draft opens on Thursday, April 23, with Round 1 scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET. The pace shifts on Friday, April 24, when Rounds 2 and 3 begin at 7:00 p.m. ET. The final stretch arrives Saturday, April 25, starting at 12:00 p.m. ET, covering Rounds 4 through 7.
- Round 1: Thursday, April 23 - 8 p.m. ET
- Rounds 2-3: Friday, April 24 - 7 p.m. ET
- Rounds 4-7: Saturday, April 25 - 12 p.m. ET
There is a distinct rhythm to these three days. Thursday carries weight and pressure, as franchises define their direction with premium picks. Friday often delivers value selections and unexpected slides, while Saturday focuses on depth, with teams searching for contributors who can quietly shape seasons. The structure remains familiar, but the outcomes rarely follow a script.
How Can You Watch the 2026 NFL Draft in the U.S.?
The draft will air across ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network, with streaming options available on the ESPN app, Disney+, and NFL Plus. Viewers with cable access can watch through network broadcasts or official apps. For those without subscriptions, ABC provides a straightforward path through over-the-air access. Streaming alternatives add flexibility, including Disney+ bundles, live TV streaming services, and even free options like Pluto TV's NFL Channel, which offer coverage across all three days. Digital platforms also expand the experience, with live shows on YouTube and Netflix providing analysis alongside the main broadcast. Whether through traditional TV or streaming, access is wide and increasingly tailored to different viewing habits.
What Is the 2026 NFL Draft Order?
The Las Vegas Raiders hold the first overall pick and are expected to target a quarterback, with Fernando Mendoza leading that conversation. The New York Jets follow at No. 2, facing a decision between edge rushers like Arvell Reese and David Bailey. The Arizona Cardinals sit third, with offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa a strong option. The top ten continues with the Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, Washington Commanders, New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs, and another Giants selection via trade. Notably, six teams hold multiple first-round picks, including the Jets, Giants, Browns, Chiefs, Dolphins, and Cowboys. That added flexibility could trigger movement, especially if quarterbacks slide or defensive prospects rise unexpectedly.
First-Round Draft Order
- Las Vegas Raiders
- New York Jets
- Arizona Cardinals
- Tennessee Titans
- New York Giants
- Cleveland Browns
- Washington Commanders
- New Orleans Saints
- Kansas City Chiefs
- New York Giants (from Cincinnati Bengals)
- Miami Dolphins
- Dallas Cowboys
- Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons)
- Baltimore Ravens
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts)
- Detroit Lions
- Minnesota Vikings
- Carolina Panthers
- Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers)
- Pittsburgh Steelers
- Los Angeles Chargers
- Philadelphia Eagles
- Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville Jaguars)
- Chicago Bears
- Buffalo Bills
- San Francisco 49ers
- Houston Texans
- Kansas City Chiefs (from LA Rams)
- Miami Dolphins (from Denver Broncos)
- New England Patriots
- Seattle Seahawks
This order sets the stage, but trades and late decisions often reshape it quickly. The draft rarely stays predictable for long. Stay updated with the latest NFL news and analysis as the event unfolds.
