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NFL Sets 16 Draft Attendees as Uncertainty Persists Beyond Expected No. 1

The mix of invitees and a notable absence signals a first round many teams still view as wide open.

Overview

  • The NFL named 16 prospects who will attend the draft in Pittsburgh, and presumed No. 1 Fernando Mendoza will watch from Miami as Ohio State sends a class-high five players.
  • After Mendoza, projections split on the early picks, with reports tying the Jets at No. 2 to Arvell Reese, David Bailey or Rueben Bain Jr.
  • ESPN’s Jordan Reid reports he has not found a team with a true first-round grade on any defensive tackle, creating real odds the position is shut out of Round 1.
  • That defensive tackle outlook is shaping plans, with Chicago eyeing Day 2 value inside and New England linked to Ohio State run-stopper Kayden McDonald late in the first.
  • Dallas is weighing a move up for safety Caleb Downs or edge Rueben Bain Jr., though ESPN analysts suggest either could slip into the teens without a trade.