Get ready for an exciting glimpse into the future of NFL drafts! The 2026 NFL draft order is shaping up to be a thrilling race, with some surprising teams at the top. As we approach Week 10 of the 2025 season, it's time to dive into the projected first-round draft order for all 32 teams, courtesy of ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI).
Each week, ESPN's FPI simulates the remaining season 10,000 times, using team ratings and game locations to predict outcomes. The draft order is based on these simulations, considering each team's projected record after 17 games and their average draft position. It's an intricate process that gives us a fascinating glimpse into the future.
Our FPI predictions have the Tennessee Titans leading the pack, potentially securing the first pick for the second year in a row. But here's where it gets interesting: who's right behind them in the top 10? And what about teams with multiple first-round picks, like the New York Jets after their Sauce Gardner trade? Let's explore the full projections and uncover some intriguing possibilities.
1. Tennessee Titans (1-8):
Average Draft Position: 3.1
FPI Chance for No. 1 Pick: 29.4%
Top-Five Chance: 86.3%
Top-Ten Chance: 99.2%
The Titans are currently projected to have the first overall pick, a chance to rebuild and reshape their team. With a struggling 1-8 record, they have a solid opportunity to draft a potential franchise-changing player.
2. New Orleans Saints (1-8):
Average Draft Position: 3.3
FPI Chance for No. 1 Pick: 26.6%
Top-Five Chance: 83.6%
Top-Ten Chance: 98.5%
The Saints, another team with a 1-8 record, are closely following the Titans in the draft order. Their chances of securing a top-five pick are high, giving them an excellent opportunity to infuse new talent into their roster.
3. Cleveland Browns (2-6):
Average Draft Position: 3.9
FPI Chance for No. 1 Pick: 19.1%
Top-Five Chance: 77.3%
Top-Ten Chance: 97.4%
The Browns, despite their 2-6 record, are still in the running for a top-three pick. Their average draft position puts them in a great spot to address key areas and potentially make a significant impact on their team's future.
And this is the part most people miss...
While the top three teams have a clear advantage in the draft order, the race for the remaining spots is intense. Teams like the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, and Las Vegas Raiders are all within striking distance of a top-five pick. Even the Washington Commanders and Cincinnati Bengals, with their 3-6 records, still have a chance to secure a top-ten pick.
Controversial Interpretation: Some might argue that the draft order is an inaccurate representation of a team's true potential. After all, a team's record doesn't always reflect its overall talent or future prospects. What do you think? Should we place more emphasis on a team's overall performance, or is the draft order a fair representation of their future prospects?
As we head into Week 10, these projections provide an exciting glimpse into the future of the NFL. Stay tuned as the season unfolds, and let's see if these predictions hold true! Don't forget to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
