As the excitement surrounding the NFL Draft builds, mock drafts are proving more valuable than ever. They not only highlight where players are projected to go but also offer insight into team needs and strategies. In this article, we’ll explore who we think the teams will draft and who they should draft based on their current rosters and draft needs.

Las Vegas Raiders

**Will Happen:** The Raiders are heavily favored to select QB Fernando Mendoza from Indiana with their top pick. The betting odds are at an astonishing 99.5 percent for the Heisman winner landing in Las Vegas. **Should Happen:** It’s a clear choice. The Raiders desperately need a new franchise quarterback, and Mendoza is not just talented but a polished, high-IQ pocket passer.

Arizona Cardinals

**Will Happen:** Many expect the Cardinals to pick LB Arvell Reese from Ohio State, a consensus All-American and the best defensive player available. **Should Happen:** However, they may be better served by selecting Edge David Bailey from Texas Tech. Bailey's role as a pure edge rusher fits their needs better and he is more ready for professional play than a jack-of-all-trades player.

Tennessee Titans

**Will Happen:** The Titans seem poised to draft RB Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame. He has the potential to be the league’s next superstar running back. **Should Happen:** Yet, given the current state of their roster, they’d be wise to focus on defense. If top defensive prospects are available, it’s in the Titans’ best interest to pursue them.

New York Giants

**Will Happen:** The Giants are likely to pick LB Sonny Styles from Ohio State, filling a key need in John Harbaugh’s defense. **Should Happen:** Alternatively, they should consider trading down to gather more picks while addressing their urgent need on the offensive line.

Cleveland Browns

**Will Happen:** Expect the Browns to pick WR Carnell Tate from Ohio State, targeting a reliable receiver for their young quarterbacks. **Should Happen:** However, they should ensure they select either the best receiver or offensive tackle available in the first round without overthinking it.

Washington Commanders

**Will Happen:** Reports suggest that the Commanders are likely to draft David Bailey, an edge player from Texas Tech, to enhance their pass-rushing ability. **Should Happen:** Conversely, taking safety Caleb Downs from Ohio State could elevate their entire defense, making this a tempting option.

New Orleans Saints

**Will Happen:** The Saints are expected to draft WR Makai Lemon from USC to bolster their receiving corps. **Should Happen:** However, focusing on defense by selecting edge player Rueben Bain Jr. from Miami may add more immediate value and stability.

Kansas City Chiefs

**Will Happen:** The Chiefs are likely to take CB Mansoor Delane from LSU, meeting an urgent need in their secondary. **Should Happen:** They should also consider Caleb Downs if he's available, as he can drastically improve the defense.

Cincinnati Bengals

**Will Happen:** The betting odds point towards selecting safety Caleb Downs from Ohio State, who fits a glaring need in a struggling defense. **Should Happen:** They should not miss out on Downs; he is the best overall prospect remaining and could significantly impact their squad.

Miami Dolphins

**Will Happen:** Expect the Dolphins to draft WR Jordyn Tyson from Arizona State if the top two receivers are off the board. **Should Happen:** However, trading back could provide more opportunities to acquire valuable picks while addressing team weaknesses.

Pittsburgh Steelers

**Will Happen:** The Steelers are anticipated to pursue OL Max Iheanachor from Arizona State, addressing their need for offensive line depth. **Should Happen:** Alternatively, they should aim to draft WR Denzel Boston from Washington, who could offer immediate contributions to their air game.

Buffalo Bills

**Will Happen:** The Bills are expected to improve their run defense by drafting DT Kayden McDonald from Ohio State. **Should Happen:** They could also consider LB CJ Allen from Georgia to instill toughness and leadership into the defensive unit.

Conclusion

As we edge closer to the NFL Draft, it’s essential for teams to weigh their current needs against the best available talent. While these predictions offer a view into likely decisions, teams will ultimately have to balance strategy, player potential, and organizational goals. With so much at stake, the choices made during the draft could have lasting implications on the franchises involved.