One Major Shift in 2026 NFL Draft Order After Week 12

The order for the 2026 NFL Draft is beginning to take shape following the completion of the Week 12 games. The selection order is determined by the reverse order of the current league standings, with the team possessing the worst record slated to pick first.

Main News

The Chicago Bears currently hold two of the top five selections in the projected 2026 draft order. Their own first-round pick is positioned at number five overall.

The Carolina Panthers, who hold the league’s worst record at 1-10, are in line for the number one overall selection. The New England Patriots, with a 2-9 record, are projected to pick second.

The Bears also hold the Panthers’ first-round pick as a result of a prior trade. This gives Chicago the number one overall selection in the current projection.

Several other teams with losing records, including the Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans, are positioned within the top ten of the draft order. The order will continue to change each week based on game results.

Summary

Following Week 12 of the NFL season, the Carolina Panthers possess the worst record and are projected to make the first overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. The New England Patriots, with the second-worst record, are in line for the second pick.

The Chicago Bears currently hold two projected top-five selections. Their own pick is at number five, and they also own the Panthers’ first-round pick, which is currently number one overall.

This dual top-five projection for the Bears stems from a previous trade with Carolina. The final draft order will be determined by the final standings at the conclusion of the regular season.

FAQs

**Why do the Chicago Bears have two top-five picks?**
The Bears acquired the Carolina Panthers’ first-round pick in a previous trade. Because the Panthers have the league’s worst record, that pick is currently first overall.

Which team has the worst record and the first draft pick?
The Carolina Panthers, with a record of 1-10, currently hold the worst record in the NFL. This positions them for the first overall selection in the 2026 draft.

Is the draft order final after Week 12?
No, the draft order is not final. It is a projection that will change each week based on the outcomes of the remaining regular-season games.

Disclaimer: This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. All information is based on verified reporting available at the time of publication.