Prior to 2011, it was rare for first-round draft picks to finalize their rookie deals before the Fourth of July. Now, many are signed prior to Memorial Day. On Friday, Carnell Tate, the fourth overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, agreed to terms on his four-year rookie contract with the Titans. Like all first-round picks, the deal is fully guaranteed, totaling $51,134,914, including a $33,649,028 signing bonus. The value of first-round contracts is determined by draft position, leaving little room for negotiation, which has led to quicker agreements in recent years. With Tate signing, the second pick (Jets edge rusher David Bailey), third pick (Cardinals running back Jeremiyah Love), and fourth pick (Tate) are now under contract. The first overall pick, Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza, has yet to sign.
