NFL Mock Draft with Trades + The Best Skill Position Sleepers & Fantasy Landing Spots After Round 1 (Ep. 1998)

FantasyPros - Fantasy Football Podcast43mApril 16, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this final mock draft episode before the 2026 NFL Draft, hosts Joey P, Pat Fitzmaurice, and Scott Bogman, joined by CBS analyst Emery Hunt, break down a dynamic first-round mock with trades, positional value debates, and sleeper picks. The draft kicks off with the Raiders selecting Fernando Mendoza at No. 1, followed by the Jets taking David Bailey at No. 2, though Arvel Reese is praised as a more complete talent. The Cardinals select Arvel Reese at No. 3, while the Titans land Sonny Stiles at No. 4. A major trade occurs at the end of the round as the Jets move up from No. 33 to No. 32 to select quarterback Ty Simpson, sparking debate over his readiness and long-term potential. The episode features deep dives into player evaluations, with standout picks including Mancer Delane for the Saints, Francis Maunoa for the Chiefs, and Caden McDonald for the Vikings. The hosts also highlight skill-position sleepers like Omar Cooper Jr., Casey Concepcion, and Emmanuel McNeil Warren, emphasizing their upside despite draft position. The episode concludes with a strong call to action for fans to subscribe to FantasyPros’ YouTube and Tailgate NFL channels for live draft coverage.

Key Takeaways
1

Ty Simpson’s trade-up to No. 32 by the Jets reflects a strategic long-term plan, allowing him to develop behind Geno Smith without immediate pressure.

2

Arvel Reese is widely considered a better fit than David Bailey for the Jets, with higher upside as a versatile, athletic pass rusher.

3

The Chiefs prioritize offensive line protection by selecting Francis Maunoa, addressing a critical need for Patrick Mahomes’ health.

4

Caden McDonald’s size and run-stuffing ability make him a perfect fit for the Vikings’ defensive line void after releasing Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave.

5

Omar Cooper Jr. is a high-upside slot receiver with elite after-the-catch ability, ideal for a team like the Steelers needing a dynamic weapon.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
5 min

Intro & Draft Setup

The hosts introduce the final mock draft of the season, previewing live coverage from Pittsburgh, and welcome Emery Hunt as a special guest. The episode sets the stage for a high-stakes, trade-heavy mock with a focus on fantasy landing spots and skill-position sleepers.

5:00
5 min

Top 5 Picks: Raiders to Jets

Arvel Reese is just this athletic freak who's only 20 years old, still learning how to rush the passer. This dude can affect the game in so many ways.

Highlight
10:00
10 min

Mid-Round Picks: BPA & Positional Value

Caleb Downs is the best pure football player in the draft. He's not exceptionally fast, but he's so good in coverage because he's so smart and just so good at diagnosing plays.

Highlight
20:00
10 min

Late First Round & Trade Drama

The ultra-athletic Thienemann could be sort of a long-term answer at the position for them.

Highlight
30:00
10 min

The Ty Simpson Trade & Final Picks

If you're going to take a swing, take a swing with athleticism. So I wouldn't take Ty Simpson in round one, but that doesn't mean if you take him in round two that he can't play.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
If you're going to take a swing, take a swing with athleticism. So I wouldn't take Ty Simpson in round one, but that doesn't mean if you take him in round two that he can't play.
Emery Hunt63:20
Viral: 90.0
Caleb Downs is the best pure football player in the draft. He's not exceptionally fast, but he's so good in coverage because he's so smart and just so good at diagnosing plays.
Scott Bogman23:10
Viral: 88.0
Arvel Reese is just this athletic freak who's only 20 years old, still learning how to rush the passer. This dude can affect the game in so many ways.
Pat Fitzmaurice9:50
Viral: 85.0
Speakers

Hosts

Joey PPat FitzmauriceScott Bogman

Guest

Emery Hunt
Topics Discussed
NFL Draft Mock95%Quarterback Class Evaluation90%Trade Analysis88%Skill Position Sleepers85%Fantasy Football Draft Strategy80%Defensive Line Needs75%Offensive Line Upgrades70%Safety Position Depth65%
People & Brands

Emery Hunt

person

20xPositive

Scott Bogman

person

18xPositive

Pat Fitzmaurice

person

15xPositive

Joey P

person

12xPositive

Ty Simpson

person

12xMixed

FantasyPros

brand

10xPositive

Arvel Reese

person

8xPositive

iHeartRadio

brand

8xNeutral

David Bailey

person

6xPositive

Apple Podcasts

brand

6xNeutral

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