2026 NFL Draft QB Preview: Fantasy Football Outlook for Top Prospects

Analyzing the fantasy potential of Fernando Mendoza, Ty Simpson, and other top QB draft picks

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:54pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the fluid motions of a quarterback in action, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives capturing the multifaceted nature of the position.A cubist interpretation of the complex decision-making and dynamic movements of today's top NFL quarterback prospects.Today in Miami

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Yahoo analyst Joel Smyth breaks down the top quarterback prospects and their fantasy football outlook. The class is headlined by Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, projected to be the Raiders' first overall pick, as well as Alabama's Ty Simpson and several other intriguing Day 2 and 3 options.

Why it matters

With multiple teams in need of a quarterback, the 2026 draft class will have a major impact on the fantasy football landscape. Understanding the strengths, weaknesses, and potential of these QB prospects can help dynasty league managers make informed decisions on draft day.

The details

Fernando Mendoza, the likely No. 1 overall pick by the Raiders, is praised for his intangibles and efficiency, though some question whether his dominant 2025 season was more a product of Indiana's strong supporting cast. Ty Simpson of Alabama is a polarizing prospect with just one season as a starter, while players like Garrett Nussmeier of LSU, Carson Beck of Miami, and several others from smaller schools will look to prove themselves on draft day.

  • Mendoza transferred from California to Indiana for the 2025 season.
  • The Raiders signed veteran QB Kirk Cousins in the offseason, setting the stage for Mendoza to potentially learn behind him as a rookie.
  • Nussmeier missed time in 2025 due to knee and oblique injuries, but bounced back with a strong Senior Bowl performance.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The likely No. 1 overall pick by the Raiders, Mendoza is praised for his intangibles and efficiency after a dominant 2025 season at Indiana, though some question whether his success was more a product of the team around him.

Ty Simpson

The Alabama quarterback is a polarizing prospect, with just one season as a starter, though his talent is intriguing enough to make him a likely first-round pick.

Garrett Nussmeier

The LSU quarterback missed time in 2025 due to injuries, but bounced back with a strong Senior Bowl performance, displaying his potential as an NFL QB.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It is all but official that Fernando Mendoza will be the Raiders' first overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.”

— Joel Smyth, Yahoo Analyst

“Ty Simpson is a polarizing prospect, to say the least. Quarterback will always be the most valuable position in the NFL Draft, and Simpson's talent is intriguing enough to make him a first-round pick.”

— Joel Smyth, Yahoo Analyst

What’s next

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, scouts and analysts will continue to closely evaluate these quarterback prospects, with their performances at pro days and the NFL Combine likely to impact their draft stock.

The takeaway

The 2026 NFL Draft QB class may lack the star power of recent years, but there are still several intriguing prospects who could make an impact at the next level. Dynasty fantasy football managers will need to closely monitor these players' development and landing spots to identify potential long-term value.