Day 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft could have simply ended, nevertheless it’s by no means too early to make grand proclamations about this yr’s class.
Under, we provide 4 statements and assess whether or not they’re true or false.
Assertion: New York gained Spherical 1
The New York Giants and New York Jets mixed for 5 picks, and every added gamers who might be quick starters. Whereas the Jets handed on Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese for Texas Tech edge-rusher David Bailey, the 2025 first-team All-Massive Ten choice was taken three spots later by the Giants at No. 5.
Bailey, who had 14.5 sacks final season, will assist the Jets’ cross rush, and so they additionally improved their offensive talent positions by including the highest tight finish within the class, Kenyon Sadiq, and extensive receiver Omar Cooper Jr. at No. 30 after shifting into the again finish of the spherical by sending No. 33 and No. 179 to the San Francisco 49ers.
The Giants, in the meantime, took lineman Francis Mauigoa with their second first-round choice (No. 10), bettering quarterback Jaxson Dart’s safety after the 2025 rookie handled a regarding variety of accidents final season. | TRUE
Assertion: Arizona Cardinals made the best name taking operating again Jeremiyah Love at No. 3
Confronted with a mountain of wants, Arizona elected for a commodity in Love, seen by many as the very best prospect within the 2026 class. We’re sufficiently old to recollect comparable reward handed to extensive receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. two seasons in the past, and that hasn’t precisely turned out properly for the Cardinals.
Love’s signing feels rather a lot just like the Las Vegas Raiders deciding on Ashton Jeanty at No. 6 final season. Like Las Vegas in 2025, Arizona is in no place to place its star operating again in the very best place to succeed heading into his rookie yr. With solely seat heaters Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew at quarterback and a subpar offensive line, Love could not have many open operating lanes, dulling his quick impression. | FALSE
Assertion: The tip is close to for Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford
Los Angeles had been accountable for a draft stunner, taking quarterback Ty Simpson, who some questioned whether or not he’d be a first-round decide, at No. 13. Whereas definitely not a menace to problem 2025 MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford for the beginning function this season, his choice raises questions concerning the veteran quarterback past 2026, the ultimate yr of his contract.
However earlier this week, Rams basic supervisor mentioned an extension, sharing, “Progress has been made” and that he did not “count on any drama.”
