2026 NFL Draft Grades: AFC East
With the 2026 draft complete, theScore's senior NFL writer Dan Wilkins hands out his initial grades for each team's incoming rookies.
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Grade: B
It's nothing spectacular, but I think this group could help the Bills take a step forward. T.J. Parker, my No. 6 edge rusher in this class, was nice value after Buffalo traded out of the first round. The Clemson standout is a good edge setter who also has more pass-rush upside than his 2025 production might suggest. The Davison Igbinosun pick is a little rich for me, but I appreciate the fit of his press-man coverage skills in Jim Leonard's defense. And I really like the back-to-back selections of Skyler Bell and Kaleb Elarms-Orr on Day 3. Bell is a good route-runner who provides incredible playmaking ability after the catch, and Elarms-Orr is a great athlete whose physicality and pass-rush upside could really shine with some time to develop his instincts. My one question: Will the Bills regret passing on Kayden McDonald at No. 35? The Ohio State nose tackle could have single-handedly shored up one of the league's worst run defenses.
Grade: C+
The Dolphins did some good things this week. The sheer volume of their class goes a long way toward turning over the NFL's most barren roster in the first year under a new leadership regime. Jeff Hafley should be thrilled to come away with a pair of potential difference-makers to help lay the foundation for his defense. I saw Chris Johnson as a top-three corner in this class, and Jacob Rodriguez is an incredibly instinctive linebacker who finds ways to make plays in every phase of the defensive game. I also love the potential long-term value in Chris Bell, a physical and explosive receiver who could have been a borderline first-rounder if he wasn't coming off a torn ACL. But it's tough to get past drafting Kadyn Proctor at No. 12. While I can't deny the upside of a 6-foot-7, 352-pound lineman with overwhelming power, he could encounter some serious issues against NFL speed rushers. That obvious reach - along with an overly aggressive swing on Caleb Douglas, the No. 219 prospect on the industry Consensus Big Board - drags down Miami's grade quite a bit.
Grade: B
I'm a big fan of what the Patriots were able to do this week. Whether Caleb Lomu is at right tackle or eventually winds up on the left side with Will Campbell shifting to guard, he's an important addition to Drake Maye's pass protection. If Mike Vrabel's staff can help Lomu get stronger and perhaps unlock more physicality, his unique athletic traits give him an incredibly high ceiling. Gabe Jacas is an extremely underrated three-down edge defender who wins with heavy hands, a powerful bull rush, and relentless effort. And Eli Raridon should be a great addition to the tight end room. Not only is the Notre Dame product a capable in-line blocker, but his athletic profile suggests his 2025 breakout as a receiver may be a real sign of what's to come at the next level. Assuming the Patriots can complete their expected trade for A.J. Brown after June 1, I see no reason why they can't be among the best teams in the AFC again next season.
Grade: A-
David Bailey wasn't my preferred pick for the Jets at No. 2, since Arvell Reese offers more long-term upside. But it's easy to understand the vision: bolstering the defensive front with a player who provides explosiveness and proven pass-rush polish off the edge. I also came around quite a bit on the Kenyon Sadiq pick after New York still addressed a need at receiver with Omar Cooper Jr. at the end of the first round. With that explosive pass-catching tandem sliding in alongside Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell, there's a lot to like about this offensive foundation as the Jets prepare to pursue a top quarterback prospect next year. Cade Klubnik could be a suitable long-term backup for that passer. And how can I not give the Jets' grade a bump for landing one of my favorite prospects in this class on Day 2? Much like his new head coach, D'Angelo Ponds has the athleticism, instincts, and competitiveness to overcome any concerns about his size. It'll take some time, but this long-suffering franchise is slowly trending back in the right direction.