The Early Board
The author opens the mock draft with a clear philosophy: secure elite talent at running back and wide receiver before worrying about quarterback.
Jaxon Smith‑Njigba, the 24‑year‑old who captured the Offensive Player of the Year award, is the first name called, followed by Ashton Jeanty, whose rookie campaign topped 1,200 yards and ten touchdowns.
James Cook is next, having set new career highs in carries, rushing yards and fantasy points per game, while Emeka Egbuka’s promising start was cut short by a hamstring injury.
The conversation then shifts to the quarterback pool, where Baker Mayfield’s dominance from 2024 through week six of 2025 is highlighted, alongside Cam Ward’s second‑half rookie surge.
Other key pieces include Kyle Pitts, fresh off his best fantasy season and a new three‑year deal, and Sam Darnold, the Super Bowl champion who posted back‑to‑back 4,000‑yard campaigns.
The author also notes Michael Wilson’s third‑year leap with 1,006 receiving yards, Kyle Monangai’s rookie production, and Quentin Johnston’s consecutive 700‑yard seasons.
Late‑round stashes such as Jalen Coker’s wild‑card performance, Chig Okonkwo’s iron‑man streak, Nicholas Singleton’s downhill style and De’Zhaun Stribling’s dual‑season 800‑yard track record round out the projection.
The overall strategy aims to blend proven stars with high‑upside prospects, positioning the dynasty roster for sustained competitiveness.