The 2026 NFL draft has concluded, and while it will take years to fully evaluate each selection, initial reactions highlight notable successes and missteps. The Cleveland Browns impressed with a savvy trade-down and key picks, while the Philadelphia Eagles continued their trend of shrewd moves. On the losing side, the Los Angeles Rams raised eyebrows with a questionable quarterback selection, and New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel faced scrutiny for missing draft day due to personal issues.
Winner: Cleveland Browns
The Browns executed a strong draft, starting by trading down from the sixth to the ninth overall pick. With that selection, they took Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano, regarded as one of the cleanest blockers in the class. Cleveland plans to install Fano at left tackle immediately, addressing a key need. Later, they added two wide receivers: KC Concepcion (24th overall) and Denzel Boston (39th overall). Concepcion, despite a drop issue, offers dynamic playmaking, while Boston brings size and contested-catch ability. The steal might be safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (58th overall), a versatile defensive back with high athletic upside. Quarterback Taylen Green, taken later, adds intriguing depth. Overall, the Browns addressed multiple needs without reaching.
Loser: Jermod McCoy
Cornerback Jermod McCoy entered the draft as a potential first-rounder based on his stellar 2024 season at Tennessee, where he allowed only 31 catches on 62 targets. However, a torn ACL wiped out his 2025 season, and pre-draft reports indicated he might need additional surgery on a bone plug, potentially costing him the entire 2026 season. Despite a strong pro day, McCoy fell to the fourth round, where the Las Vegas Raiders selected him with the first pick. McCoy expressed confidence in his health but acknowledged he will follow the team's plan. His future remains uncertain, ranging from stardom to a career cut short by injury.
Winners: AJ and Avieon Terrell, Atlanta Falcons
Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell, projected as a first-round talent, surprisingly lasted until the 48th overall pick, where the Falcons selected him. The silver lining: he joins his older brother AJ, a Falcons first-round pick in 2020. The Terrells become the third known set of brothers to play in the same NFL secondary, following the McCourty and Blackwood duos. Avieon expressed joy at the reunion, calling it a blessing. The Falcons add a talented cornerback while strengthening family bonds.
Loser: Sean McVay's Body Language
The Rams surprised many by selecting quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick, despite having reigning MVP Matthew Stafford. Simpson, a one-year starter at Alabama, showed declining performance in 2025. At the post-draft press conference, head coach Sean McVay appeared despondent while general manager Les Snead did most of the talking. McVay later explained his demeanor was out of respect for Stafford, but the move raises questions about draft strategy. With Super Bowl aspirations, the Rams could have used the pick to bolster other positions, especially after acquiring top cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson.
Winner: Howie Roseman, Philadelphia Eagles
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman once again demonstrated his drafting acumen. Before the draft, he traded for edge-rusher Jonathan Greenard, signing him to a four-year, $100 million deal. In the first round, he traded up with the Cowboys to select USC receiver Makai Lemon, a potential No. 1 target. Second-round pick Eli Stowers (Vanderbilt tight end) could replace Dallas Goedert, while third-rounder Markel Bell (a massive 6-foot-9, 346-pound blocker) mirrors left tackle Jordan Mailata. Later picks included quarterback Cole Payton (fifth round), guard Micah Morris (sixth), and safety Cole Wisniewski (seventh), all of whom could contribute. Roseman consistently finds value without overspending.
Loser: Mike Vrabel, New England Patriots
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel missed the third day of the draft due to an alleged extramarital affair with NFL reporter Dianna Russini, who resigned from The Athletic. Vrabel announced he would seek counseling. General manager Eliot Wolf acknowledged the team would miss Vrabel's stability and presence, especially with undrafted free agents. While Vrabel's focus on family is understandable, the timing raised questions about his priorities during a critical team-building event. The Patriots' draft process proceeded without him, but the distraction was unfortunate.
