2026 NFL Mock Draft Round 2: 49ers, Cardinals, Bills & More Make Key Picks

2026 NFL Draft Round 2 Mock: Key Picks for the 49ers, Cardinals, and More

The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft has concluded, and it did not unfold as expected. While Fernando Mendoza went to the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1 as projected, chaos followed with the Los Angeles Rams selecting Ty Simpson at No. 13 as the long-term successor to Matthew Stafford. With 225 picks remaining, culminating at No. 257 with the Denver Broncos, here’s a breakdown of how the second round could unfold.

Round 2 Mock Draft Projections

Key Takeaways from the Second Round

San Francisco 49ers Add Denzel Boston

Denzel Boston, a wide receiver from Washington, was a popular late-first-round pick in mock drafts, often projected to the Buffalo Bills to bolster Josh Allen’s receiving corps. However, Boston slipped into the second round, landing with the San Francisco 49ers at No. 33. The 49ers, who added Mike Evans and Christian Kirk this offseason, still have questions about Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings. Boston brings ball-winning ability and the opportunity to learn from one of the NFL’s top receivers in Evans.

Arizona Cardinals Select Garrett Nussmeier

The Arizona Cardinals took LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier at No. 34, a selection that may raise eyebrows. Nussmeier, who dealt with a spinal cyst pressing on a nerve during the season, showed strong timing, rhythm, and anticipation when healthy. Despite his undersized frame, his NFL readiness and potential fit in Mike LaFleur’s offense make him an intriguing long-term option.

Buffalo Bills Continue Building with Zion Young

The Buffalo Bills, via a trade with the Tennessee Titans, selected Missouri edge rusher Zion Young at No. 35. Young adds to Buffalo’s defensive depth and provides a potential pass-rushing threat opposite Gregory Rousseau.

Las Vegas Raiders Add Emmanuel McNeil-Warren

The Las Vegas Raiders selected Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren at No. 36. McNeil-Warren could bolster Oakland’s secondary as they continue to rebuild under new head coach Antonio Pierce.

New York Giants Select Jermod McCoy

The New York Giants took Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy at No. 37. McCoy’s coverage skills could address the Giants’ needs in the defensive backfield.

Houston Texans Add Kayden McDonald

The Houston Texans, via a trade with the Washington Commanders, selected Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald at No. 38. McDonald adds to Houston’s interior defensive line depth.

Analysis and Trends

• Quarterback Movement: Garrett Nussmeier’s selection by Arizona highlights the Cardinals’ commitment to addressing their long-term QB situation.
• Defensive Depth: Teams like the Bills, Giants, and Texans focused on bolstering their defensive units with edge rushers and cornerbacks.
• Wide Receiver Talent: The second round features multiple receivers, including Germie Bernard (Kansas City) and Chris Bell (Miami), who could contribute immediately.
• Trades and Shifts: The 49ers’ acquisition of Denzel Boston and the Bills’ trade to select Zion Young reflect teams’ strategic moves to address positional needs.

What’s Next?

The 2026 NFL Draft continues with rounds three through seven, where teams will look to fill remaining roster gaps. With 225 picks still available, the coming rounds will be critical for teams aiming to build depth and uncover hidden gems.

Stay tuned for further updates and in-depth analysis as the draft progresses.