The race for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft is intensifying as the season progresses. Currently, the Tennessee Titans lead the pack, but several teams are vying for the top selection due to their struggles this season.
Titans Lead NFL Race for No. 1 Draft Pick
Entering Week 13, the Tennessee Titans hold the top spot with a record of 1-11. The team recently lost six consecutive games, including an October firing of head coach Brian Callahan. Their latest defeat against the Jacksonville Jaguars at home has solidified their position as favorites for the top pick, with a greater than 50% likelihood of securing it.
Remaining Schedule for the Titans
- At Cleveland Browns
- At San Francisco 49ers
- Vs. Kansas City Chiefs
- Vs. New Orleans Saints
- At Jacksonville Jaguars
Last year, the Titans selected quarterback Cam Ward, but he has struggled this season with a 59.4% completion rate and seven touchdowns versus six interceptions. As they look to rebuild, another high draft pick could be pivotal.
Challengers for the Top Draft Position
The Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints are also in contention for the top pick. Both teams currently have a record of 2-10, struggling significantly this season.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders, under head coach Pete Carroll, have faced difficulties, ranking near the bottom of the league in offensive performance. Following a disappointing 31-14 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, their chances of securing the No. 1 pick rose to about 18%. Their remaining schedule includes:
- Vs. Denver Broncos
- At Philadelphia Eagles
- At Houston Texans
- Vs. New York Giants
- Vs. Kansas City Chiefs
New Orleans Saints
Like the Raiders, the Saints have also struggled this season, losing to the Miami Dolphins most recently. Their playoff hopes are dashed, but their odds for the top pick improved to approximately 14%. The Saints are evaluating rookie quarterback Tyler Shough, who stepped in after a rough start by Spencer Rattler. Their remaining games include crucial matchups such as:
- At Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Vs. Carolina Panthers
- Vs. New York Jets
- At Tennessee Titans
- At Atlanta Falcons
New York Giants and Jets
The New York Giants are also in the draft race with a 2-10 record, holding about a 4% chance for the top pick. Their next game against the New England Patriots could significantly impact their odds. The Giants’ remaining schedule features:
- At New England Patriots
- Vs. Washington Commanders
- Vs. Minnesota Vikings
- At Las Vegas Raiders
- Vs. Dallas Cowboys
The New York Jets, with a record of 3-9, were third in the No. 1 pick odds before a recent win over the Atlanta Falcons. Despite starting 0-7, the Jets are looking to rebound. Their schedule includes:
- Vs. Miami Dolphins
- At Jacksonville Jaguars
- At New Orleans Saints
- Vs. New England Patriots
- At Buffalo Bills
As the season heads into its final weeks, the competition for the top selection in the upcoming draft remains fierce. The Titans are currently in command, but the outcome of the remaining games will be crucial in determining the draft order.
