Two teams open to moving back in first round 2026 NFL Draft

There could be some movement at the top of next week’s NFL draft. 

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported Saturday that “belief in league circles” is that the Cardinals and Titans, who hold the No. 3 and 4 picks, respectively, are “both open to moving back” in the draft. 

Whether or not Arizona and Tennessee trade down could hinge on what the Jets decide to do with the second selection. 

Gang Green is widely expected to take either Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey or Ohio State edge rusher Arvell Reese with the pick. 

New Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur (L) speaks as general manager Monti Ossenfort looks o during a press conference at Dignity Health Arizona Cardinals Training Center on February 03, 2026 in Tempe, Arizona. Getty Images

The Raiders have all but confirmed they will be taking Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick. 

Bailey, Reese, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, Miami offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa, Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, among others, are all names teams looking to trade up could target at No. 3 and 4. 

The Cardinals have been rumored to have their eyes on Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, who is expected to be a late first-round or possible second-round pick. 

With a new regime led by head coach Robert Saleh and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, and set at quarterback with last year’s first overall pick, Cam Ward, in tow, the Titans could be looking to stockpile picks instead of using the fourth pick. 

The first few picks aren’t the only place Fowler is hearing there could be movement. 

He added that there are “many watching” the always-active Cowboys, who own the 12th and 20th overall picks, “due to obvious defensive needs,” although they are “not overly active on phones yet.” 

Robert Saleh of the Tennessee Titans speaks during a press conference at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine on February 24, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Getty Images

“Open-minded about potential move but also comfortable staying put,” Fowler wrote of the Cowboys. 

The first round of the draft takes place Thursday in Pittsburgh, followed by the second and third rounds on Friday and the fourth through seventh rounds on Saturday.