The first night of the 2026 NFL draft saw 17 players in attendance, with 15 ultimately selected in the opening round. Two notable prospects, Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood and Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, were left unchosen.
Players who attend the first night of the draft face a critical decision: whether to return for the second night. This choice is entirely up to them, though it carries inherent risk. Many are fully aware of the stakes before making the decision.
Quarterback Ty Simpson, who was considered a potential first-round outlier, defied expectations by being selected 13th overall by the Los Angeles Rams. His selection marked one of the night’s most surprising outcomes.
Full List of First-Round Selections
- David Bailey – New York Jets
- Jeremiyah Love – Arizona Cardinals
- Carnell Tate – Tennessee Titans
- Arvell Reese – New York Giants
- Mansoor Delane – Kansas City Chiefs
- Sonny Styles – Washington Commanders
- Jordyn Tyson – New Orleans Saints
- Francis Mauioga – New York Giants
- Caleb Downs – Dallas Cowboys
- Kadyn Proctor – Miami Dolphins
- Ty Simpson – Los Angeles Rams
- Rueben Bain Jr. – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Makai Lemon – Philadelphia Eagles
- Dillon Thieneman – Chicago Bears
- Keldric Faulk – Tennessee Titans
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