Ranking the 10 best quarterbacks in 2026 NFL Draft, from Fernando Mendoza to Jalon Daniels
The 2026 QB class has one surefire standout rookie set to go No. 1 overall to the Raiders, but there are big question marks afterward, including whether there will be a second passer off the board before Round 2.
Ranking the 10 best quarterbacks in 2026 NFL Draft, from Fernando Mendoza to Jalon Daniels originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The 2026 quarterback class has one sparkling gem in the latest combined Heisman Trophy winner and national champion, Fernando Mendoza.
The rest of the group, however, seems rough and there may not be another diamond. Mendoza is sure to go to the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1 and then all bets off as to when the next name at the position is called.
Here's breaking down what's an overall weak class compared what's coming in 2027 with Arch Manning, Dante Moore and others: MORE: Sporting News' complete 7-round mock draft Ranking the 10 best quarterbacks in 2026 NFL Draft Imagn Images 1. Fernando Mendoza, Indiana (6-5, 236 pounds) Mendoza has all the markings of a standout can't miss pocket passer for the Raiders, coached by Klint Kubiak and part-owned by Tom Brady. He has the arm, accuracy and intangibles to give them a true long-term franchise QB.
He also adds the right dash of athleticism and saving his best for the clutch. Draft projection: Early first round 2. Ty Simpson, Alabama (6-1, 211 pounds) Simpson has stood out as the best of the rest with his consistent delivery that has lead to fine short-to-intermediate accuracy.