INDIANAPOLIS — Ahead of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, many analysts expected the Las Vegas Raiders to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. However, if Mendoza were not available, which player might become the first overall pick? This question was put to 42 prospects at the combine in an NFL Combine Survey, revealing several leading contenders beyond Mendoza.
Leading Candidates for the No. 1 Selection
Miami’s edge rusher Rueben Bain emerged as the most popular choice, receiving 11 votes out of 34, with some participants opting not to name anyone. Bain’s 9.5 sacks last season, including five during the College Football Playoff, highlighted his impact. Despite concerns related to his arm length measurement shared at the combine, an AFC executive reassured teams that such issues should not cause alarm.
Rueben Bain was unstoppable in the playoffs,
a prospect remarked.
Ohio State’s Arvell Reese followed Bain with seven votes. Reese’s ability to perform both as an off-ball linebacker and an edge rusher makes him a versatile and attractive prospect in the 2026 class.
A defensive person. Probably a D-end,
one prospect said when discussing the top pick possibilities.
Notable Prospects Receiving Significant Support
Two other players tied with four votes each: Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa and Ohio State safety Caleb Downs. Prospects mentioned their names amid a spread of interest from participants.
61, whoever that is, however you say his name,
commented one voter about Mauigoa.
Other expected first-round talents receiving individual votes included Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey, Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate, as well as Taylen Green, Lee Hunter, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, T.J. Parker, and Logan Taylor.
Survey Insights and Player Perspectives
The question asked at the combine encouraged players to share honest opinions rather than self-promote. Some prospects abstained, citing unfamiliarity with the draft landscape or simply not paying close attention. These candid responses provided a glimpse into the unpredictability and debate surrounding the top NFL 2026 draft top picks.
Summary of Survey Votes for Potential No. 1 Picks
1. Rueben Bain, edge rusher, Miami — 11 votes
2. Arvell Reese, linebacker, Ohio State — 7 votes
3. Caleb Downs, safety, Ohio State — 4 votes
4. Francis Mauigoa, offensive tackle, Miami — 4 votes
Others with one vote each: David Bailey (OLB, Texas Tech), Taylen Green (QB, Arkansas), Lee Hunter (DL, Texas Tech), Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (DB, Toledo), T.J. Parker (DL, Clemson), Sonny Styles (LB, Ohio State), Carnell Tate (WR, Ohio State), Logan Taylor (OL, Boston College).
This survey reveals a competitive and diverse group of top prospects who could shape the outcome of the NFL 2026 Draft Top Picks. As evaluations continue through the combine and beyond, the exact order of selections remains uncertain, making the draft one of the most closely watched events in upcoming football seasons.
