2026 NFL Draft QB rankings: Fernando Mendoza, Ty Simpson and more

The 2026 NFL Draft arrives on Thursday, 23 April, and with it, the next generation of pro quarterbacks.

From a national championship winner to a pocket passer who's been waiting in the wings, this class has plenty of intriguing options for the many NFL teams lacking quarterback talent.

Here are my DAZN News rankings for the top five quarterbacks in the upcoming NFL Draft, headlined, of course, by the man predicted to go first overall.

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From just £9.99/€9.99, witness the moment Fernando Mendoza, Jeremiyah Love and Carnell Tate hear their names called and walk onto the draft stage as the next generation of NFL superstars.

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1. Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

NFL Draft projected range: First overall

Dan Orlovsky was right when he said, "It's not close" between Mendoza and Ty Simpson, but he had the order wrong. Mendoza is the clear QB1 in this class.

A Heisman winner who led Indiana to a perfect 16-0 record and the title, Mendoza's journey from two-star recruit to the top of every draft board is remarkable.

Sorry, Kirk Cousins, but Mendoza's football IQ, accuracy, and timing should make him an NFL star in quick order.

2. Ty Simpson, Alabama

NFL Draft projected range: mid-1st to early 2nd

Simpson's story is one of the draft's best. After three years in the wilderness, he erupted with 30 passing touchdowns, a SEC title, and is now generating late first-round buzz. 

He reads defenses like someone who grew up in a football program because he did. The son of a head coach, Simpson's processing, mechanics and pre-snap communication are advanced. 

It remains to be seen whether his 15 career starts and a season that tailed off fast may yet see him fall down boards, but he sounds like a guy ready to take advantage of whatever situation is thrown his way.

3. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU

NFL Draft projected range: mid 2nd to mid 3rd

Kevin C. Cox / Staff

Son of a long-serving NFL coach, Nussmeier was raised in film rooms and on practice fields, and it shows through with his football IQ and anticipation.

His 2025 season was derailed by an oblique injury that restricted his movement and ended his year early, but he received good news about the cause this week, and the talent is definitely still there.

His turnover rate - 17 in the last 22 games - and small hands may concern some teams, but Nussmeier still has enough tools to develop into a starter.

4. Drew Allar, Penn State

NFL Draft projected range: late 3rd to early 4th

Allar has the physical profile that NFL teams covet, including rare size and impressive arm strength. He also brings 35 career starts and two-time captain credentials.

A broken ankle ended his senior season early and wiped out most of his pre-draft process, but he showed at the NFL Combine that the arm is very much intact.

His issues are rhythm, footwork, and timing. It's a big ask, but if he can improve upon those fundamentals and make better decisions on third down, Allar could be a steal.

5. Carson Beck, Miami

NFL Draft projected range: late 3rd to late 4th

Beck is experienced, technically sound and composed in most situations. Kirby Smart called him "Cool Hand Luke", a reputation well earned.

The problem is what happens when things break down. There were too many plays when, under pressure, his ball placement and decision-making deteriorated sharply.

In the right spot, Beck can be a capable backup and occasional starter.

Just missed the NFL Draft top five QB list

North Dakota State's Cole Payton's raw athleticism could mean he becomes the fifth or even fourth quarterback taken in this class.

Taylen Green of Arkansas made a real statement at the NFL Combine and could tempt a team willing to bank on his upside.