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Top 5 Quarterback Prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Indiana's Fernando Mendoza leads the class, but several other QBs could rise up draft boards
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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Ahead of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, draft analysts have ranked the top quarterback prospects for the upcoming draft. Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner, is the clear top prospect, but several other QBs like Alabama's Ty Simpson, Arkansas' Taylen Green, and Miami's Carson Beck could see their stock rise as the draft approaches.
Why it matters
The quarterback position is always a key focus for NFL teams, and this year's class features several intriguing prospects who could make an impact at the next level. With the combine and pro days coming up, teams will get a closer look at these players and how they might fit into their future plans.
The details
Fernando Mendoza of Indiana is the top-ranked quarterback prospect, thanks to his size, quick release, and high-level processing speed. Other top QBs include Ty Simpson of Alabama, Taylen Green of Arkansas, Carson Beck of Miami, and Garrett Nussmeier of LSU. North Dakota State's Cole Payton is also generating buzz as a potential mid-round sleeper pick.
- The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine will take place next week, with quarterbacks arriving in Indianapolis on Wednesday and Thursday for medical evaluations.
- Quarterbacks will conduct media sessions on Friday and be on the field Saturday for position drills, agility tests and the 40-yard dash.
- Indiana's Fernando Mendoza plans to hold off on throwing until the on-campus workout and pro day in Bloomington on April 1.
The players
Fernando Mendoza
The 6-5, 225-pound quarterback from Indiana is the top-ranked prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft class. He won the Heisman Trophy in 2025 and led the Hoosiers to the national title.
Ty Simpson
The 6-2, 208-pound quarterback from Alabama is a well-rounded prospect with adequate arm strength and accuracy, despite being a one-year starter who dealt with inconsistency and injuries.
Taylen Green
The 6-6, 225-pound quarterback from Arkansas has exceptional size and speed, and could generate interest if he runs a 4.5 40-yard dash and is open to changing positions.
Carson Beck
The 6-4, 220-pound quarterback from Miami wins with accuracy and ball placement, though his arm strength is not elite.
Garrett Nussmeier
The 6-1, 215-pound quarterback from LSU has NFL bloodlines and ties to the current Saints offensive coordinator, but injuries led to sloppy mechanics and poor production last season.
What’s next
The quarterbacks will showcase their skills at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis next week, with the on-field drills and 40-yard dash taking place on Saturday.
The takeaway
This year's quarterback class features several intriguing prospects who could see their draft stock rise leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft. While Indiana's Fernando Mendoza is the clear top prospect, players like Ty Simpson, Taylen Green, and Cole Payton will have the chance to impress scouts and potentially work their way into the early rounds.
