Last year, Mel Kiper Jr. spent much of the first round venting about Shedeur Sanders' slide. This time around? He had far less to complain about—and a whole lot more to praise. In his latest analysis for ESPN, the longtime draft guru named six teams that truly crushed it on Day 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft.
From bold trades to no-brainer picks, Kiper's winners list reflects a night of sharp decision-making across the league. Let's break down who earned his stamp of approval—and who left him scratching his head.
Raiders Land Their Franchise QB
It was no secret that Las Vegas had its eyes on Fernando Mendoza for months. When the Raiders made him the No. 1 overall pick, Kiper applauded the move, calling Mendoza both a franchise quarterback and his top overall prospect in the draft. For a team desperate for stability under center, this was a home run.
Cardinals Go All-In on a RB—and Kiper Loves It
Arizona raised eyebrows by taking running back Jeremiyah Love at No. 3, but Kiper wasn't among the skeptics. He ranked Love as his No. 2 prospect overall and described him as a true all-purpose playmaker who will transform the Cardinals' offense. For more on Love's journey, check out Spotlight on Love: Meet the Woman Behind NFL Draft Star Jeremiyah Love.
Browns Play the Board Perfectly
Cleveland walked away with offensive tackle Spencer Fano at No. 9 and wide receiver KC Concepcion at No. 24—a haul that Kiper praised as both impactful and efficient. By trading down three spots with the Chiefs, the Browns also picked up mid-round value. This draft strategy aligns with Browns' Draft Picks Hint at All-In Plan for Shedeur Sanders in 2026.
Cowboys Get Creative
Dallas made two moves that Kiper loved: moving up one spot to grab his No. 6 overall prospect, defensive back Caleb Downs, then trading down to land edge rusher Malachi Lawrence while accruing mid-round picks. It was a textbook example of maximizing value.
Ravens Find a Safe Bet
Baltimore selected offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane at No. 14, a pick Kiper described as a safe, high-floor prospect. In a draft full of risk, the Ravens got a player who should contribute immediately.
Eagles Get Ahead of the Curve
Philadelphia snagged wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 20—a steal in Kiper's eyes, as he had Lemon ranked 11th overall. Calling him a true baller who attacks the ball in the air and creates after the catch, Kiper noted the pick also gives the Eagles leverage ahead of an impending A.J. Brown trade.
Of course, not everyone earned Kiper's praise. He criticized the Chiefs for giving up too much to move up for cornerback Mansoor Delane, who wasn't even in his top 10. He was stunned by the Rams drafting quarterback Ty Simpson in the first round—a move that raised questions about Matthew Stafford's future (read more: Rams Draft Ty Simpson: Is Matthew Stafford's Clock Ticking?). And he called the Vikings' selection of defensive tackle Caleb Banks the biggest reach of the night, given Banks was his No. 62 overall prospect.
For more on who could shine on Day 2, don't miss Mel Kiper's Top 10 Day 2 Gems: Who's Still on the Board After Round 1?.
