The 2026 NFL Draft features top quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner, expected to be the first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders. The overall quarterback class is considered weak compared to the promising prospects in 2027.
Key points
Fernando Mendoza is the top quarterback prospect.
Mendoza is the Heisman Trophy winner and national champion.
The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to draft Mendoza first overall.
The 2026 quarterback class is considered weak.
2027 features promising prospects like Arch Manning and Dante Moore.
Fernando MendozaArch ManningDante MooreLas Vegas Raiders
The 2026 quarterback class has one sparkling gem in the latest combined Heisman Trophy winner and national champion, Fernando Mendoza. The rest of the group, however, seems rough and there may not be another diamond.
Mendoza is sure to go to the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1 and then all bets off as to when the next name at the position is called. Here's breaking down what's an overall weak class compared what's coming in 2027 with Arch Manning, Dante Moore and others:
Ranking the 10 best quarterbacks in 2026 NFL Draft
Ty Simpson
Ty Simpson
Imagn Images
1. Fernando Mendoza, Indiana (6-5, 236 pounds)
Mendoza has all the markings of a standout can't miss pocket passer for the Raiders, coached by Klint Kubiak and part-owned by Tom Brady. He has the arm, accuracy and intangibles to give them a true long-term franchise QB. He also adds the right dash of athleticism and saving his best for the clutch.
Draft projection: Early first round
2. Ty Simpson, Alabama (6-1, 211 pounds)
Q&A
Who is the top quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The top quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft is Fernando Mendoza, the latest Heisman Trophy winner.
Which team is expected to draft Fernando Mendoza?
Fernando Mendoza is expected to be drafted first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders.
How does the 2026 quarterback class compare to 2027?
The 2026 quarterback class is considered weak compared to the 2027 class, which includes top prospects like Arch Manning and Dante Moore.
What are the rankings of the quarterbacks in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The article ranks the 10 best quarterbacks in the 2026 NFL Draft, highlighting Mendoza as the standout player.
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Simpson has stood out as the best of the rest with his consistent delivery that has lead to fine short-to-intermediate accuracy. A team will need to be patient with his arm strength and bulk developing a little more, but he has the natural tools, including a winning pedigree.
Draft projection: Late first round to mid second round
Nussmeier is more relegated to passing out of the pocket than either Mendoza or Simpson, but he stands in there and can get rid of the ball quickly or extend plays with his toughness. He is naturally accurate and football smart as the son of Saints offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier.
Draft projection: Third to fourth round
4. Cade Klubnik, Clemson (6-2, 207 pounds)
Klubnik would also benefit from playing in the right system a la Simpson and Nussmeier. He would thrive in a rhythmic quick-dropback West Coast style offense with his short-to-intermediate accuracy.
Allar has the ideal size and big arm to look the part as a capable NFL pocket passer but it's critical that he keeps working to become more accurate and consistent with his downfield execution.
Draft projection: Fourth to fifth round
6. Carson Beck, Miami (6-5, 233 pounds)
Beck is right up there in having the look of a NFL strong-armed pocket passer with the experience and intangibles to match. Physically, he must get better with his mechanics and footwork to become more accurate and be more consistent in making good decisions.
Draft projection:Ā Fourth to fifth round
7. Luke Altmeyer, Illinois (6-2, 210 pounds)
Altmeyer runs well and throws well, but there's nothing super special about his game. He is confident in making all the throws leaning well on experience. He projects more as being limited to a long-term No. 2.
Robertson is an intriguing late-round flyer because of his intangibles and natural athleticism as part of his ideal passing frame. He is rather refined in making all the throws but his limited arm ceiling says backup at best.
Draft projection: Sixth to seventh round
Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green
Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green
Imagn Images
9. Taylen Green, Arkansas (6-6, 227 pounds)
Green took off with a 4.37 40-yard dash at the Combine as part of his athletic show. He is still growing as a downfield passer but he has a dynamic quality about him to think he would be worth a late pick with a shot to put it all together with his running.
Draft projection: Seventh round
10. Jalon Daniels, Kansas (6-1, 219 pounds)
Daniels has learned well from his college coaching to get his footwork and mechanics down. Daniels does a little bit of everything well as a passer and is malleable to a variety of systems, making him an intriguing developmental backup.