The 2024 NFL draft was a game-changer, with six quarterbacks picked in the first 12 spots. Last year, however, only two players, Cam Ward and Jaxson Dart, heard their names called. Many expected a bounce-back for quarterbacks this season, but recent discussions suggest a different story for 2026.
According to Jeff Howe from The Athletic, there’s growing unease about the upcoming draft class. One NFL executive expressed doubts: “I don’t love any of [the quarterbacks] right now. We’re trying to grasp onto somebody because there isn’t anybody, and it’s such a flavor of the week. Good luck right now.”
Among the standout college signal-callers is Fernando Mendoza from Indiana. He is gaining attention as a top prospect for 2026, though opinions on his NFL potential vary. Alabama’s Ty Simpson has had a decent start but raises concerns due to his inexperience and physical traits.
Other promising players like Oregon’s Dante Moore, South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, and Texas’ Arch Manning might decide to stay in college. Moore and Sellers, still just 20, could benefit from more time in school. Manning, a redshirt sophomore, is expected to remain in college through the 2026 season, which would bolster the 2027 draft class.
That upcoming class includes exciting names like DJ Lagway from Florida and Dylan Raiola from Nebraska, making it a key consideration for NFL teams when planning player acquisitions.
Teams will tailor their strategies based on needs and resources. The Jets and Browns are on the hunt for quarterback upgrades and have the draft capital to make moves. Other teams, including the Raiders, Rams, Steelers, and Cardinals, might hold on to their current quarterbacks while eyeing future drafts.
Some familiar names are also in the mix for 2026, like Penn State’s Drew Allar, Miami’s Carson Beck, and Clemson’s Cade Klubnik. These players have shown promise but never fully delivered in college.
The landscape is always shifting. Prospects can rise or fall in rankings as they develop. For teams, finding a franchise quarterback is crucial, and the draft remains the best path to that goal.
For more insights on NFL draft strategies, you can check out this report from NFL.com and stay updated on the latest developments.
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