2026 NFL Draft Rounds 2-3: Kiper's Top Winners, Surprising Reaches, and Best Values

The second and third rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft delivered a mix of savvy selections and head-scratching decisions as teams scrambled to find value after most top prospects were off the board. With only four players from Mel Kiper Jr.'s top 32 still available, front offices had to be strategic in addressing roster needs and capitalizing on remaining talent.

This phase of the draft saw notable winners like the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens make impactful additions, while some teams reached for players earlier than expected, especially at tight end. Kiper’s analysis highlights which franchises struck gold, which gambled too much, and which prospects remain intriguing heading into Day 3.

Top Teams Who Nailed Their Day 2 Picks

The Cleveland Browns shored up their receiving corps with Denzel Boston, a 6-foot-4 receiver known for strong routes and reliable hands, addressing a glaring weakness from last season. They also added defensive playmakers Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and Austin Barber, the latter bolstering their offensive line despite some concerns about power matchups.

Baltimore Ravens found a gem in Zion Young, a versatile edge rusher who excels in both pass rush and run defense, complementing their existing stars. They also added wideout Ja'Kobi Lane, a red-zone threat with size and hands that will fit well in Lamar Jackson’s offense.

The Atlanta Falcons impressed by drafting cornerback Avieon Terrell, who joins his brother in the secondary, and snagging speedy receiver Zachariah Branch late in Round 2, a player compared to Zay Flowers for his quickness and elusiveness.

Quarterback Moves and Strategic Fits

The Arizona Cardinals took a calculated risk selecting Carson Beck in Round 3, a quarterback praised by Nick Saban for his work ethic and mobility. Beck, ranked as the third-best QB in this class, offers a promising developmental option behind veterans Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew II.

Pittsburgh Steelers added Drew Allar, a big-bodied QB with a solid arm and toughness, as insurance behind Will Howard and potential successor to Aaron Rodgers. The Steelers also bolstered their receiving options with Germie Bernard, a versatile slot receiver with underrated speed.

Questionable Picks and Tight End Frenzy

The San Francisco 49ers’ Day 2 was puzzling, starting with De'Zhaun Stribling at No. 33, a player ranked much lower on Kiper’s board than several receivers still available. Their later picks also raised eyebrows, including a running back selection when faster, more versatile backs were on the board.

A notable trend was the tight end run, with multiple teams reaching for players well below their rankings. Jacksonville’s Nate Boerkircher, Houston’s Marlin Klein, Los Angeles Rams’ Max Klare, and Chicago’s Sam Roush were all selected earlier than expected, despite better options being available at other positions.

• Boerkircher was ranked 127th overall and is primarily a blocking tight end with limited receiving production.
• Klein was not in the top 150 and needs improvement in contested catches and blocking.
• Klare was a slight reach compared to available receivers and tackles.
• Roush was the 141st-best prospect, with other edge rushers still on the board.

Players Still Available and What to Watch for on Day 3

Despite the heavy early selections, several top talents remain for Day 3, including cornerback Jermod McCoy, who has first-round traits but carries injury concerns, and versatile hybrid defender Kyle Louis. Speedsters like Mike Washington Jr. and Brenen Thompson also await their call, offering big-play potential.

Teams will continue to address depth and key needs, with Kiper expecting more impact players to emerge as the draft concludes. The full postdraft grades for all franchises will provide a clearer picture of how these selections shape the 2026 NFL season.