{"id":616362,"date":"2026-04-20T11:05:37","date_gmt":"2026-04-20T11:05:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/616362\/"},"modified":"2026-04-20T11:05:37","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T11:05:37","slug":"2026-nfl-draft-class-is-fueling-aggressive-trade-market-let-gms-explain-opinion","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/616362\/","title":{"rendered":"2026 NFL Draft class is fueling aggressive trade market. Let GMs explain | Opinion"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re like me, searching for answers about what is fueling this extremely active NFL trade market, perhaps there\u2019s no better source to tap than Les Snead.<\/p>\n<p>I mean, the Los Angeles Rams GM, who pulled off the blockbuster <a href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/articles\/rams-land-chiefs-trent-mcduffie-170732678.html\" data-ylk=\"slk:trade in March to land all-pro cornerback Trent McDuffie;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;trade in March to land all-pro cornerback Trent McDuffie&quot;}\" class=\"link  yahoo-link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">trade in March to land all-pro cornerback Trent McDuffie<\/a> from the <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/teams\/kansas-city\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Kansas City Chiefs;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Kansas City Chiefs&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Kansas City Chiefs<\/a>, is well suited to host an NFL version of \u201cLet\u2019s Make a Deal.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Advertisement<\/p>\n<p>According to his track record, Snead is not shy about picking up the phone and making a pitch. Or taking a call, running the numbers and coming back with a counteroffer. That he actually has a first-round pick for the NFL draft that kicks off Thursday night \u2013 at least he does\u00a0at the moment\u00a0\u2013 has a \u201cRipley\u2019s, Believe it or Not!\u201d flavor.<\/p>\n<p>Over the past 10 drafts, including this one, Snead traded his first-round pick nine times. The one he kept, in 2024, he used on edge rusher <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/players\/40894\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Jared Verse;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Jared Verse&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jared Verse<\/a>, who only became NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year after being picked 19th\u00a0overall \u2013 more proof of Snead\u2019s chops as a talent evaluator. Of course, the first-round pick he\u2019s holding now, 14th\u00a0overall, came in a trade last year with the Falcons, while L.A.\u2019s own first-round pick for \u201926 was sent to K.C. in the McDuffie deal. All told, these are the markings of a man who likes the action.<\/p>\n<p>Then there was that classic moment at the Super Bowl 56 championship parade that was enabled by the trades in 2021 that landed two key cogs to the title run \u2013 <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/players\/9265\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Matthew Stafford;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Matthew Stafford&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Matthew Stafford<\/a> and <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/players\/29239\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Jalen Ramsey;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Jalen Ramsey&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jalen Ramsey<\/a> \u2013 with the combined cost including four first-round picks. Snead wore a T-shirt bearing his face on the front, along with a message: \u201cF&#8212; them picks!\u201d<\/p>\n<p>So, why so many trades this year?<\/p>\n<p>Advertisement<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMaybe it\u2019s our fault. Maybe it\u2019s the <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/teams\/la-rams\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Rams;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Rams&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rams<\/a>\u2019 fault,\u201d Snead, grinning, told USA TODAY Sports as we chatted in a breezeway during the recent NFL owners meetings.<\/p>\n<p>1 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Arvell Reese, LB\/DE, Ohio State<\/p>\n<p>On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/f3a7b981bf6a14082b4f77b7a2a97bc2.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>1 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Arvell Reese, LB\/DE, Ohio State<\/p>\n<p>On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/fd9e12a7910ce993fa6243c0255501a4.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s a testament to <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.usatoday.com\/story\/sports\/ncaaf\/bigten\/2025\/12\/29\/indiana-fernando-mendoza-college-football-championship-nfl-draft\/87791138007\/\">Mendoza&#8217;s impeccable body of work<\/a> that the pre-draft vivisection of his game has largely only turned up questions of how he&#8217;ll fare operating from under center rather than in the shotgun.<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">No one will confuse the 6-5, 236-pound Heisman Trophy winner with the likes of Cam Ward or Drake Maye, as he&#8217;s not particularly creative or dangerous when a play breaks down. But that&#8217;s about the only phase in which Mendoza comes up short. He&#8217;s as precise as any passer you&#8217;ll find from the college ranks, and he comfortably works through progressions and manipulates coverages. His arm strength isn&#8217;t otherworldly, but he can attack every level with suitable velocity on his throws. Forcing him off his spot can throw him off his rhythm, but Mendoza rarely loses his cool under pressure and still conjures solutions when things aren&#8217;t going his way. Beyond the improvisational shortcomings, he&#8217;s the picture of a top-tier quarterback prospect.<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">More: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.usatoday.com\/story\/sports\/nfl\/draft\/2026\/04\/08\/fernando-mendoza-skips-nfl-draft-mother-illness-family\/89516334007\/\">Why Fernando Mendoza won&#8217;t be at NFL draft: Indiana QB staying home<\/a><\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/6a441545e956a10228cda274fb21910d.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>3 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame<\/p>\n<p>The hyperbole inherent to NFL draft evaluations doesn&#8217;t seem so outlandish when it&#8217;s being attached to Love. For the 6-0, 213-pound Heisman Trophy finalist, everything starts with his game-breaking speed, which allows him to turn the corner with ease or jet through even the narrowest of openings on the interior. And once he has a step on the defense, he&#8217;s extremely unlikely to be caught. He&#8217;s <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.usatoday.com\/story\/sports\/nfl\/draft\/2026\/04\/06\/jeremiyah-love-2026-nfl-draft-message\/89460608007\/\">far from just a linear threat<\/a>, however, as his distinct creativity shines through in the open field \u2013 particularly when he unleashes his spin move or hurdle. Operating in a different gear than everyone else has created some inconsistencies in his early pacing, but it&#8217;s rarely something that derails him. His elite skill set also carries over to his work as a pass catcher, where he can further vex defenses that won&#8217;t likely have an answer when he lines up in the slot or out wide. It&#8217;s fair to hold onto questions of positional value for running backs, but Love is unquestionably among a select few who deserve to be seen as this class&#8217; difference-makers.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/6e0e9b5f6f1f5b1da2b890c78fe3d4f1.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>4 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami<\/p>\n<p>No defender in college football broke open games last season quite like Bain, who led the Football Bowl Subdivision with 83\u00a0pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. The 6-2, 263-pounder frequently took the shortest path possible to the quarterback, uprooting anyone who stood in his way. Bain&#8217;s atypical build for an edge rusher \u2013 including <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.usatoday.com\/story\/sports\/nfl\/draft\/2026\/02\/26\/nfl-draft-arm-length-rueben-bain-will-campbell\/88855167007\/\">his short arms<\/a> \u2013 invited plenty of scrutiny about how he might translate to the pro ranks, but he&#8217;s already demonstrated he can mitigate the concern. If he&#8217;s neutralized, it seems unlikely that it&#8217;ll become a common occurrence.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/dee199398d30a994ef6f164dca956563.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>5 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State<\/p>\n<p>After arriving at Ohio State as an elite athlete searching for a true position, Styles departs Columbus having developed an unparalleled proficiency for the intricacies of linebacker play. The 6-5, 244-pound former safety could be counted on to be in the right place to plug the run at all times, and he still has room to grow in coverage and as a blitzer. Clean in everything he does, Styles can help be a standard-bearer for whatever defense he joins.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/b312742fd216d0e6655dc43be3ed3dc9.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>6 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State<\/p>\n<p>From his first snaps at Alabama as a five-star freshman to his final push at Ohio State, Downs put himself in a class all his own at safety. The two-time unanimous All-American repeatedly snuffed out plays before they could get started, particularly against the run or near the line of scrimmage. While he doesn&#8217;t measure up as a physical marvel like Kyle Hamilton or Derwin James, he could have the same bottom-line effect for a defense, even if he doesn&#8217;t match their ball production. His position might prevent him from cracking the top five, but he&#8217;ll force offenses to account for him on every down.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1776594979_349_6cc985c810590e39f1569094d978d077.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>7 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">David Bailey, OLB\/DE, Texas Tech<\/p>\n<p>Right off the snap, Bailey gets offensive linemen on their toes. The 6-4, 251-pound edge rusher&#8217;s explosion off the ball can get blockers off balance in an instant, at which point Bailey can attack them by changing course or unleashing a spin move. Bailey&#8217;s lean frame can result in him being eradicated in the run game at times, but players who can derail opposing passers with his level of efficiency can&#8217;t be ignored. It shouldn&#8217;t be long into his NFL transition before his pressure rate ticks up and he takes his place as one of the league&#8217;s most threatening matchups off the edge.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/a30db9b310c9fc67f800e01e267a50e2.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>8 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State<\/p>\n<p>He was never the WR1 in the Buckeyes&#8217; loaded receiver room, but Tate stands above the rest of the pass-catching options in this class. With subtle shifts in his tempo and sudden breaks in his routes, the 6-2, 192-pound target creates separation without much strain. He settles into open spaces against zone and skies over defensive backs to haul in difficult passes down the sideline. He might not look the part of a go-to target, but he measures up to the title in almost every respect.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/0a697fcb9c4724be358a0e6a3fd834c9.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>9 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU<\/p>\n<p>Not long into his foray into the Southeastern Conference, the Virginia Tech transfer made clear to opponents that he was not to be tested. Delane rapidly earned the title of shutdown corner, with teams almost universally opting to avoid throwing his way. At the next level, he figures to draw comparisons to Trent McDuffie \u2013 another cornerback who doesn&#8217;t let his size or limited ball production prevent him from being recognized as a first-tier cover man.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/6b07e9f3dc9b7b578f12ee0f36b478e4.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>10 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Makai Lemon, WR, USC<\/p>\n<p>In an earlier era, Lemon might have been dismissed as a slot receiver not capable of being an offensive focal point. Now, however, there shouldn&#8217;t be much doubt about how much the Biletnikoff Award winner can shoulder. Lemon is a maestro when it comes to getting open underneath, and he can be counted on to vacuum up any throw that approaches his area. And teams that underestimate his downfield credentials could end up paying if they try to sit on short and intermediate throws.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/f99e41a7cafe79edc706ab6604ad332b.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>11 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee<\/p>\n<p>A torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered last January kept McCoy out of commission for all of last season and clouded his pre-draft process. But in a stellar pro day showing, the 6-1, 188-pound corner served up a reminder that he has all the trappings of a top-tier cover man. With superlative ball skills and ample tools to stick with receivers throughout their routes, McCoy can grow into a standout in any defensive scheme.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/85c1ee4e604b767173c579c193a97cfe.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>12 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon<\/p>\n<p>After his impressive performance at the NFL scouting combine, Thieneman rocketed into the discussion of this draft&#8217;s premier defensive backs. Easy coverage instincts extend his already expansive range, and vigilance is required for any passing attack that throws to his area of the field. He can&#8217;t measure up to Downs or some of the other safeties in this class when operating closer to the line of scrimmage, but he shouldn&#8217;t be asked to serve in that capacity too frequently anyway.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/291b514bea3e81f9e3fcc8e1828d30b9.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>13 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">13. Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State<\/p>\n<p>Even with everything crumbling around him in Penn State&#8217;s calamitous season, Ioane still held firm. The 6-5, 320-pound left guard is a brick wall in pass protection, but where he really shines is in his forceful displacements in the run game. Ioane will have to figure out a way to handle quick-twitch defensive tackles who will test his fluidity, but he&#8217;s one of the more reliable prospects in this class.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1776594983_339_17f4065504c9058d8233e405e5017112.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>14 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Francis Mauigoa, OT\/G, Miami<\/p>\n<p>Solid to the core, the former five-star recruit holds his ground against the pass and forces opposing linemen out of the way with his strong first contact. But while there&#8217;s not much mystery to the 6-6, 329-pounder&#8217;s play, there are several unknowns about his projection. A move inside could be in his future to safeguard against concerns that he&#8217;ll be beaten by rangy edge rushers, but the skill set is there to hang at right tackle.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/be8ba7b8845125015849d1bb1d33936c.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>15 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Spencer Fano, OT, Utah<\/p>\n<p>Smooth movements allow Fano to conjure answers for even the speediest edge rushers. He still could have trouble with rangier defenders, however, as well as ones who can convert speed to power and knock him off base. Like many offensive tackles in this class, he&#8217;ll face questions of whether he belongs at the position, with some question of whether he should head to center.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/2e82d5c93747b96f158f555e98f502ce.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>16 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia<\/p>\n<p>From his massive frame (6-7, 315 pounds) to his quickness, Freeling checks off some of the most notable boxes for a high-end left tackle. As a one-year starter, his technique is still a work in progress, with some bad habits sapping his efficacy. But he&#8217;s clearly on an upward trajectory, and teams might be eager to buy on an ascendant blocker.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/9a6c409b79bb25999e48ac3648610f3f.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>17 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&amp;M<\/p>\n<p>Few receivers are true separators at all three levels. Concepcion qualifies as just that, with more than enough quickness and speed to free himself from coverage at any point on the field. Drops have dogged him, but he could shake the issue in short order. Versatile and dynamic, Concepcion is more refined than he gets credit for, and he could become a vital part of an aerial attack with more polish.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/9abcd45452ac833e4f9856e794a96349.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>18 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon<\/p>\n<p>The ultimate seam threat, Sadiq accelerates in a manner not seen from 6-3, 241-pound pass catchers. Though he&#8217;s\u00a0proven himself after the catch, much of his value remains somewhat theoretical, as his experience and workload in the downfield passing game haven&#8217;t aligned with his capabilities. But as an instant mismatch creator and aggressive run blocker, he can change the complexion of whatever offense he joins.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/3e25b5491d60ac73aeb973ea88def365.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>19 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Denzel Boston, WR, Washington<\/p>\n<p>Some will see a 6-4, 210-pound body and assume Boston relies on pulling down jump balls in close quarters. But while tilting those throws in his favor is his best feature, it&#8217;s far from his only one. Boston has impressive fluidity for a player with his physical make-up, and his tracking and midair adjustments make him an even more confounding\u00a0coverage assignment.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/54a07be2adbb960077bd4b80b0bbfcb6.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>20 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo<\/p>\n<p>Though he might not be an all-around coverage maven, McNeil-Warren is comfortable exerting his will from several different vantage points. He rallies to the ball in a hurry in run support, working his way through traffic to deliver big hits. And though his 6-4, 201-pound build limits his comfort zone in coverage, he can give both quarterbacks and receivers pause on attempting any throws over the middle.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/5a36bcbe2ac9b2b764a4879426b62b36.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>21 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State<\/p>\n<p>Once seen as the clear-cut favorite to be the first receiver selected, Tyson now might be the most polarizing pass catcher in this class. Quick and crisp when he&#8217;s dialed in, he has a robust set of maneuvers to beat man coverage from various spots. But medical concerns from various ailments muddle his draft outlook, and he can be inefficient with his footwork.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/04b5847b3966754c980b2807862bcc27.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>22 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.usatoday.com\/story\/sports\/nfl\/draft\/2026\/02\/27\/nfl-draft-older-prospects-age-akheem-mesidor-keionte-scott\/88887951007\/\">Having just turned 25<\/a> with an extensive injury history, Mesidor enters the draft with red flags that might tank other prospects&#8217; stock. Teams that look past those issues, however, will see an advanced and unrelenting pass rusher with a deep bag of tricks to beat blockers. Mesidor might be one of the most divisive prospects in this class in his projection, but there&#8217;s not much to object to with the on-field product.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/eee7079a2caf7996c6e672a886ac3334.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>23 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee<\/p>\n<p>With McCoy sidelined, Hood did a commendable job of filling in as the Volunteers&#8217; primary asset in coverage. The Colorado transfer kept the competitive juices flowing in shutting down tight-window throws as well as making his presence felt against the run. He can&#8217;t match McCoy in overall fluidity, but he still sizes up as a meaningful counter in man coverage for bigger receivers.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/238f5cb7fde2256527ae01c02e0cfaca.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>24 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana<\/p>\n<p>Other receivers are sure to be more vexing coverage matchups than the 6-0, 199-pound target. Cooper, however, has a truly distinct aptitude for slipping tacklers in the open field. His penchant for racking up yards after the catch should carry over to the NFL and endear him to his future quarterback, as should his aggressive approach to fighting through contact and operating in traffic.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"fill\" class=\"cropped-img\" style=\"position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1fb0599762c656f5214b3a09ee6c8729.jpeg\"\/><\/p>\n<p>25 \/ 25<\/p>\n<p>Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0px;\">Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah<\/p>\n<p>In a class rife with right tackles and expected guard converts, Lomu stands out as a true blindside protector. Bulking up will be an essential step for the 6-6, 313-pounder to hold his own against more powerful edge rushers, but there&#8217;s considerable room for growth on top\u00a0of the enticing glimpses of his potential he&#8217;s already displayed.<\/p>\n<p>Most active NFL trade market in a decade<\/p>\n<p>Through Friday, NFL teams have executed 21 trades since the league year opened on March 11, which ranks as the second-most pre-draft deals since 2016.\u00a0And another one came over the weekend, when the <a href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/articles\/giants-trade-dl-dexter-lawrence-005020296.html\" data-ylk=\"slk:New York Giants dealt star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;New York Giants dealt star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence&quot;}\" class=\"link  yahoo-link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">New York Giants dealt star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence<\/a> to the <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/teams\/cincinnati\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Cincinnati Bengals;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Cincinnati Bengals&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Cincinnati Bengals<\/a> for the 10th\u00a0pick overall on Thursday night \u2013 giving the G-men two top-10 picks in the first round for new coach John Harbaugh\u2019s first draft.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">More: <a href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/articles\/2026-nfl-mock-draft-dexter-112738002.html\" data-ylk=\"slk:2026 NFL mock draft: What Dexter Lawrence trade might mean for Giants, first round;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;2026 NFL mock draft&quot;}\" class=\"link  yahoo-link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">2026 NFL mock draft: What Dexter Lawrence trade might mean for Giants, first round<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Advertisement<\/p>\n<p>What a pattern. Per research from the NFL\u2019s player personnel department provided to USA TODAY Sports, the only year since 2016 with more pre-draft trades was 2018, with 26.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m not surprised that this is a year that\u2019s so active,\u201d Snead said. \u201cIt just seems like we\u2019re becoming a more active league. And that could be because front offices, organizations are being more aggressive. Players may have a bit of a say, too, where things are, \u2018Hey, maybe I\u2019d like a change of scenery, \u2026 I\u2019m at this stage of my career and y\u2019all are at this stage of your window.\u2019 \u201d<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s worth noting that there\u2019s been a tremendous turnover in recent years in the GM ranks, as 11 general managers (including Rob Brzezinski, interim for the Vikings) assumed their posts since 2024. Go back three more years, to 2021, and there are 18 new GMs during that span. Such a turnover rate may be typical for head coaches, but it\u2019s not common for GMs, who often stay on their jobs over multiple head coaches.<\/p>\n<p>Maybe dots can be connected to an influx of younger, more aggressive GMs? Maybe not.<\/p>\n<p>Advertisement<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI think it just shows that people are wanting to be aggressive and they want to win, they want to change their teams,\u201d said <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/teams\/carolina\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Carolina Panthers;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Carolina Panthers&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Carolina Panthers<\/a> GM Dan Morgan, who assumed his post in 2024. \u201cWe do live in a time where you\u2019ve got to win or the weight\u2019s going to come down on your back. So, maybe some people feel the pressure to do that.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Besides, the extremely active Snead has been on his job for 15 years. Howie Roseman, the <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/teams\/philadelphia\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Philadelphia Eagles;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Philadelphia Eagles&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Philadelphia Eagles<\/a>\u2019 top shot-caller \u2013 and undoubtedly one to keep an eye on for dealing before and during the draft \u2013 is in his 17th\u00a0year as GM.<\/p>\n<p>Tenure, or lack thereof, is hardly a defining factor. Yet times have clearly changed.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhen I first started, the environment was a lot less aggressive in terms of trading and using draft capital,\u201d Snead said.<\/p>\n<p>Advertisement<\/p>\n<p>Why a high volume of trades are expected during 2026 NFL Draft<\/p>\n<p>Now the aggressive environment \u2013 and the fact that the draft window is typically the most active trading period on the NFL calendar \u2013 sets the stage for a draft-themed continuation of the action prevalent during the past few weeks.<\/p>\n<p>In other words, the forecast for the draft calls for strong trade winds.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI think that the fans will be in for a treat,\u201d Chiefs GM Brett Veach, who could be in the middle of the action with ammunition that includes two first-round picks (9th, 29th\u00a0overall), said during a video conference last week.<\/p>\n<p>Veach expects activity could be influenced by close grades grouping tackles, defensive ends and receivers, which leads to variation of value from team to team.<\/p>\n<p>Advertisement<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI think the grades are so close that it\u2019ll come down to the scheme fit, the coach\u2019s analysis, the vision, the fit for these guys. I think it should be an entertaining night and there will probably be a lot of trades,&#8221; Veach said. &#8220;And that\u2019s what I think with a draft like this, when you don\u2019t have two or three franchise quarterbacks and a <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/players\/40031\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Will Anderson;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Will Anderson&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Will Anderson<\/a>, Jr., or a <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/players\/30114\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Myles Garrett;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Myles Garrett&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Myles Garrett<\/a>, it does lend itself to open up to a lot of fun and a lot of excitement.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Of course, with rumors persisting all offseason that <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/players\/31883\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:A.J. Brown;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;A.J. Brown&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">A.J. Brown<\/a> was on the trade block, Roseman, naturally, repeated his standard response \u2013 \u201cA.J. Brown\u2019s an Eagle\u201d \u2013 when the star receiver\u2019s name was brought up during Philadelphia\u2019s pre-draft presser.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">More: <a href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/articles\/packers-trade-wr-dontayvion-wicks-210148785.html\" data-ylk=\"slk:Packers trade WR Dontayvion Wicks to Eagles, further clouding A.J. Brown&#039;s future;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Packers trade WR Dontayvion Wicks to Eagles, further clouding A.J. Brown&#039;s future&quot;}\" class=\"link  yahoo-link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Packers trade WR Dontayvion Wicks to Eagles, further clouding A.J. Brown&#8217;s future<\/a><\/p>\n<p>One name definitively crossed off the could-be-traded list: De\u2019Von Achane. New Dolphins GM Jon Eric-Sullivan reiterated as much last week while putting a positive spin on negotiations for a contract extension for the dynamic running back.<\/p>\n<p>Advertisement<\/p>\n<p>Yet Sullivan, holding 11 picks as he tries to stock a roster overhaul, surely acknowledges the conditions attached to options that include maneuvering for higher slots or adding capital. <a class=\"link \" href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/nfl\/teams\/miami\/\" data-i13n=\"sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link\" data-ylk=\"slk:Miami;sec:content-canvas;subsec:anchor_text;elm:context_link;itc:0\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Miami&quot;,&quot;ySubModuleName&quot;:&quot;anchor_text&quot;,&quot;yHasCommerce&quot;:false}\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Miami<\/a> is one of six teams with multiple first-round picks, 11th and 30th\u00a0overall.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m always going to pick up the phone,\u201d said Sullivan, previously the Packers VP of player personnel. \u201cI think it probably is fair to say more likely to move back than move up. I mean, I think we need all 11 picks, but you never say never.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">More: <a href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/articles\/dolphins-waddle-trade-sets-rare-201431584.html\" data-ylk=\"slk:Dolphins\u2019 Waddle trade sets up rare top\u2011100 NFL draft haul. See the data;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;Dolphins\u2019 Waddle trade sets up rare top\u2011100 NFL draft haul. See the data&quot;}\" class=\"link  yahoo-link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Dolphins\u2019 Waddle trade sets up rare top\u2011100 NFL draft haul. See the data<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Sullivan characterized some of the phone calls between teams in the days leading up to the draft as superficial, although he realizes that checking the pulse of whether teams are open to trading is part of the due diligence.<\/p>\n<p>Advertisement<\/p>\n<p>\u201cSure,\u201d he said of a typical reply. \u201cLet\u2019s talk on draft day.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The way the hot trade market has rolled so far this year, the phone lines will be burning up.<\/p>\n<p>Contact Bell at\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sports.yahoo.com\/articles\/mailto:jbell@usatoday.com\" data-ylk=\"slk:jbell@usatoday.com;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;jbell@usatoday.com&quot;}\" class=\"link \" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">jbell@usatoday.com<\/a>\u00a0or follow on X: @JarrettBell<\/p>\n<p>This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usatoday.com\/story\/sports\/nfl\/columnist\/bell\/2026\/04\/20\/2026-nfl-draft-trade-prediction-les-snead\/89692845007\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:GMs predict high trade volume during 2026 NFL Draft. Here&#039;s why;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" data-yga=\"{&quot;yLinkElement&quot;:&quot;context_link&quot;,&quot;yModuleName&quot;:&quot;content-canvas&quot;,&quot;yLinkText&quot;:&quot;GMs predict high trade volume during 2026 NFL Draft. Here&#039;s why&quot;}\" class=\"link \">GMs predict high trade volume during 2026 NFL Draft. Here&#8217;s why<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"If you\u2019re like me, searching for answers about what is fueling this extremely active NFL trade market, perhaps&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":616363,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[436],"tags":[12478,49,48,1744,1740,13096,12971,1625,14230,1753,27296,1727,201524,3150,6390,2214,1728,514,12105,1747,13279,82,149286,183151],"class_list":{"0":"post-616362","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-nfl","8":"tag-a-j-brown","9":"tag-ca","10":"tag-canada","11":"tag-carolina-panthers","12":"tag-cincinnati-bengals","13":"tag-dexter-lawrence","14":"tag-dontayvion-wicks","15":"tag-draft","16":"tag-gm","17":"tag-jalen-ramsey","18":"tag-jared-verse","19":"tag-kansas-city-chiefs","20":"tag-les-snead","21":"tag-matthew-stafford","22":"tag-miami","23":"tag-myles-garrett","24":"tag-new-york-giants","25":"tag-nfl","26":"tag-packers","27":"tag-philadelphia-eagles","28":"tag-rams","29":"tag-sports","30":"tag-trent-mcduffie","31":"tag-will-anderson"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/616362","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=616362"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/616362\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/616363"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=616362"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=616362"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=616362"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}