The 2026 quarterback class is an interesting mix of high-end traits, developmental upside, and proven production. There isn’t a deep group of polished, can’t-miss prospects, but there are several quarterbacks with tools that could translate at a high level with the right development. At the top, there is a clear separation with a true franchise-caliber player, while the rest of the class features a blend of safe options and high-ceiling projects. These rankings are based on overall evaluation and long-term outlook, not necessarily where each player will be drafted.
1. Fernando Mendoza – Indiana
Mendoza is the clear QB1 in this class and checks every box you want in a franchise quarterback. He is not an elite athlete, but he moves well enough and shows toughness in the pocket. His accuracy, ball placement, and anticipation are all high-level, and he consistently makes the right decisions before and after the snap. He protects the football, produces in big moments against top competition, and his leadership and intangibles truly separate him from the rest of the class.
Value: 1st Overall
2. Ty Simpson – Alabama
Simpson does not have elite physical traits, but he is a steady and efficient quarterback who wins with timing and control. He has clean mechanics, a quick release, and operates well within structure. His pocket presence is solid, and he processes defenses well despite limited starting experience. The arm talent is average and caps his ceiling, but he proved he can succeed against top competition.
Value: Late round 1–round 2
3. Taylen Green – Arkansas
Green is the most athletically gifted quarterback in this class without question and one of the most athletic QB prospects ever. At his size with elite speed and arm strength, he is a rare dual-threat who can create explosive plays at any moment. He produced well despite not being in a strong system and consistently showed big-play ability. His accuracy, mechanics, and processing still need development, but the upside is extremely high with the right coaching.
Value: Rounds 2-3
4. Drew Allar – Penn State
Allar has ideal size and elite arm talent, with the ability to make every throw on the field. He is also a capable runner for his build. However, his accuracy and footwork can be inconsistent, and his pocket presence breaks down under pressure. His processing still needs development, and injuries played a role in his regression. The traits are still there, but he is more of a projection at this point.
Value: Rounds 3–4
5. Garrett Nussmeier – LSU
Nussmeier brings a strong arm and good touch, especially in the intermediate game, and he throws well on the move. He competes hard and has shown solid production, but he lacks high-end athleticism and has durability concerns. His aggressive mindset can lead to poor decisions when forcing throws. He offers a higher floor than some but does not have the same ceiling.
Value: Early Day 3
6. Cole Payton – NDSU
Payton is a high-upside athlete with great size, speed, and explosiveness along with a strong arm. He is a real threat as a runner and can create big plays downfield. However, he only has one year of starting experience at the FCS level, so the level of competition and overall development are major concerns. His mechanics and consistency as a passer still need significant work.
Value: Early Day 3
7. Carson Beck – Miami
Beck is a traditional pocket passer with good size and strong accuracy in the short and intermediate areas. He processes quickly and operates well within structure, but he lacks mobility and struggles with deep ball consistency. At this point, he is a known commodity with limited upside but a solid floor as a dependable option.
Value: Day 3
8. Cade Klubnik – Clemson
Klubnik has decent mobility, a quick release, and flashes of touch as a passer, but consistency is a major issue. His processing and decision-making against complex defenses are concerns, and his arm strength limits him downfield. While he has some tools to work with, he has not shown enough development to project as more than a backup.
Value: Day 3
