Luke Hubbard’s NFL Mock Draft 4.0: Chiefs Trade Up For Pass Rush Help as Cowboys Move Back and Add Two Defensive Stars

The 2026 NFL Draft is fast approaching and the excitement is building up among football fans all over the country. In just a few weeks, 32 of the top college football players will have the opportunity to hear their names called and begin their professional careers. This year’s draft will take place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on a Thursday night, and it promises to be an eventful and memorable one.

As the draft draws closer, the rumor mill is starting to churn and fans are eagerly anticipating which players their favorite teams will select. With so much speculation and anticipation, it’s time to take a look at the latest mock draft and see how things could potentially play out on draft night.

First overall pick, the Houston Texans are expected to select quarterback, Sam Howell from the University of North Carolina. Howell has been a standout player in college football and is highly sought after by many teams. With the Texans in need of a franchise quarterback, this seems like a logical choice for them.

The second pick belongs to the Detroit Lions, who are projected to select defensive end, Kayvon Thibodeaux from the University of Oregon. Thibodeaux is a dominant pass rusher and would be a valuable addition to the Lions’ defense. He has the potential to be a game-changer for the team and could help turn their fortunes around.

At number three, the New York Jets are expected to select offensive tackle, Evan Neal from the University of Alabama. The Jets have been in need of a solid offensive line for years and Neal would provide much-needed protection for their quarterback. He is a versatile player who can play multiple positions on the line, making him a valuable asset for any team.

The fourth pick belongs to the Philadelphia Eagles, who are projected to select wide receiver, Garrett Wilson from Ohio State University. Wilson is a dynamic playmaker and would be a great addition to the Eagles’ offense. He has the speed, agility, and hands to make big plays and could be a game-changer for the team.

The fifth pick belongs to the Cincinnati Bengals, who are expected to select cornerback, Derek Stingley Jr. from Louisiana State University. Stingley Jr. is a lockdown corner and would be a valuable addition to the Bengals’ defense. He has the speed, agility, and instincts to shut down some of the best receivers in the league.

At number six, the New York Giants are projected to select linebacker, Christian Harris from the University of Alabama. Harris is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside positions. He is a tackling machine and would be a great addition to the Giants’ defense.

The seventh pick belongs to the Carolina Panthers, who are expected to select offensive tackle, Zion Nelson from the University of Miami. Nelson is a dominant force on the offensive line and would provide much-needed protection for the Panthers’ quarterback. He is also a great run blocker, which would benefit their running game.

At number eight, the Washington Football Team is projected to select safety, Kyle Hamilton from the University of Notre Dame. Hamilton is a ball-hawking safety and would be a valuable addition to Washington’s defense. He has the size, speed, and instincts to make big plays and could help solidify their secondary.

The ninth pick belongs to the Atlanta Falcons, who are expected to select quarterback, Malik Willis from Liberty University. Willis is a dual-threat quarterback and would be a great fit for the Falcons’ offense. He has the arm strength, accuracy, and mobility to make plays both through the air and on the ground.

At number ten, the Denver Broncos are projected to select defensive end, George Karlaftis from Purdue University. Karlaftis is a dominant pass rusher and would be a great addition to the Broncos’ defense. He has the size, strength, and technique to get to the quarterback and could help improve their pass rush.

The Kansas City Chiefs are projected to make a trade and move up to the 12th pick to select defensive end, Aidan Hutchinson from the University of Michigan. Hutchinson is a versatile player who can play both inside and outside positions on the defensive line. He has the size, strength, and technique to be a dominant force and could help improve the Chiefs’ pass rush.

The Dallas Cowboys, who currently hold the 12th pick, are expected to trade back and add two defensive stars to their roster. With the 15th pick, they are projected to select cornerback, Ahmad Gardner from the

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