NFL Draft: Top Picks, Surprises, and Trades

0:00On April 21st, the NFL Draft kicks off tonight with the Las Vegas Raiders locked in to grab Fernando Mendoza at number one overall. That leaves the New York Jets holding the number two pick, facing a tough call between Texas Tech Edge-Rusher David Bailey or Ohio State Hybrid. Defender Arvel Reese. Bailey brings elite speed off the edge, like a game-changing pass-rusher, but he's shaky against the run. Reese, seen as the class's top talent, could slide to full-time edge, like Micah Parsons did. Meanwhile, down in number four, the Tennessee Titans might surprise by taking Notre Dame running back Jeremiah Love. He's a big-play machine on the ground and through the air, turning short gains into explosives. New coach Robert Saleh could push for more defense, but pairing Love with young quarterback Cam Ward might be too good to pass up, even if history, says late first roundbacks are risky. Fans and scouts are buzzing about polarizing Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, likely the second signal caller off the board.

1:02Early in the season, he looked pro-ready with quick smarts and agility like Brock Purdy, but injuries and accuracy dips later raised red flags. At his size, only elite small QBs like Russell Wilson have thrived, and teams like the Jets, Cardinals or Steelers could eye him. Tray talks are heating up too, especially with the Cowboys at number 12 potentially jumping up for a premium player. This class lacks blue chip stars at key spots, so rebuilding teams might slide back for more picks while contenders like the Chiefs or Ravens Pounds. Cheaply, insiders say deals will fly early since value spread out. Expect a wild first round full of twists as these decisions shape rosters and futures, draft nights about to drop some real bombs.