Promising 2026 QB Draft Class Faded Fast in the Fall

Key Points:

• The 2026 quarterback class, once highly anticipated with prospects like Garrett Nussmeier, Drew Allar, and Cade Klubnik, has largely underwhelmed, with many top quarterbacks struggling or facing team turmoil, leaving Fernando Mendoza as the most promising first-round candidate.
• Fernando Mendoza, a Heisman winner from Indiana, is praised for his consistency, accuracy, and toughness, though some question his athleticism and ability to handle NFL pocket movement; he is seen as a good fit for the Raiders' system.
• Ty Simpson of Alabama shows strong football IQ and processing ability but has concerns over physical stature, injury, and consistency, making him a likely backup with developmental potential rather than an immediate starter.
• Garrett Nussmeier, once a top prospect, suffered a significant decline due to injury and poor performance, with many scouts viewing him as a mid-to-late round pick with uncertain upside.
• Other notable quarterbacks like Carson Beck, Drew Allar, and Cole Payton have mixed reviews, with Beck seen as a smart but limited athlete, Allar as a developmental project with inconsistency, and Payton as a tough, athletic player with accuracy concerns; several others are considered late-round or developmental prospects.