What to Know About the Upcoming 2026 NFL Draft
Football/Sports

What to Know About the Upcoming 2026 NFL Draft

An overview of key details regarding the 2026 NFL Draft, including dates, locations, and more.

The 2026 NFL Draft is approaching, and although it is over two months away, teams have begun preparing to strengthen their rosters for the upcoming season. The NFL Scouting Combine will occur from February 23 to March 2 in Indianapolis. Free agency kicks off on March 11 at 4 p.m. ET, with any trades made prior to that becoming official once the new league year starts.

In the meantime, fans can familiarize themselves with the draft prospects, the draft order, and more.

When is the 2026 NFL Draft?

The draft will be held from April 23-25, with specific start times (Eastern) as follows:

  • Thursday, April 23: Round 1 (8 p.m.)
  • Friday, April 24: Rounds 2-3 (7 p.m.)
  • Saturday, April 25: Rounds 4-7 (12 p.m.)

Where is the 2026 NFL Draft?

This year’s draft will take place at Pittsburgh’s North Shore, featuring Acrisure Stadium and Point State Park.

Where to Watch the 2026 NFL Draft

Viewers can catch the event on ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network, with streaming options available on Fubo. CBS Sports HQ will also provide round-the-clock coverage before, during, and after the draft.

Top 10 Picks of the 2026 Draft

  1. Las Vegas Raiders (3-14) - The Raiders are first after firing head coach Pete Carroll.
  2. New York Jets (3-14) - Despite a poor record, they have five first-round picks over two years.
  3. Arizona Cardinals (3-14) - Looking to move on from head coach Jonathan Gannon.
  4. Tennessee Titans (3-14) - Experienced frustrating end to season but fans have hope.
  5. New York Giants (4-13) - New head coach John Harbaugh may lead to a turnaround.
  6. Cleveland Browns (5-12) - The team is searching for its future quarterback.
  7. Washington Commanders (5-12) - Can compete if Jayden Daniels returns healthy.
  8. New Orleans Saints (6-11) - Tyler Shough is now a leading option for quarterback.
  9. Kansas City Chiefs (6-11) - Needs roster rejuvenation but remains in contention.
  10. Cincinnati Bengals (6-11) - Joe Burrow will need a strong defense to support his return.

For continuous updates and drafts scenarios, check out CBS Sports’ mock draft published weekly.

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