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2026 NFL Draft Round 1 Grades: Analysis for Every Pick
Teams chased value and need as several top prospects slipped, with Ohio State producing four of the first 11 selections, ESPN Research said.
The 2026 NFL Draft's first round concluded Thursday, April 23, in Pittsburgh, with the Arizona Cardinals selecting Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love at No. three and the New York Giants choosing edge-rusher Arvell Reese.
Ohio State Buckeyes players dominated the top 10, with Reese, Carnell Tate, and Sonny Styles all selected, marking the program's second time reaching that milestone in the common draft era.
New York Giants edge-rusher Reese joined a defensive unit already featuring Brian Burns, Abdul Carter, and Kayvon Thibodeaux, while Arizona Cardinals running back Love secured $52.5 million in guaranteed pay.
Following Thursday's opening round, the 2026 NFL Draft resumes today, Friday, April 24, at 7 p.m. ET, with rounds four through seven beginning at noon ET on Saturday, April 25.
As teams evaluate the draft class, franchises prepare for the 2027 season with analysts projecting long-term roster development and potential quarterback selections to address future needs.
NFL: Move the Sticks with Daniel Jeremiah & Bucky Brooks
Weekly Sports and Analysis podcast
Weekly Sports and Analysis podcast
NFL Draft Round 1 Recap: Rams Bet on Ty Simpson, Giants and Jets Load Up, Eagles Snag Makai Lemon
NFL: Move the Sticks with Daniel Jeremiah & Bucky Brooks recap Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft, including the Giants’ haul, the Eagles landing Makai Lemon, and the Chiefs’ trade up.