The 2026 NFL Draft is gaining attention, particularly with key players emerging from various college programs. As the college football season wraps up, the rankings for top prospects are becoming clearer, especially for quarterbacks. Notably, Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza has established himself as the leading quarterback prospect in this year’s draft class.
2026 NFL Draft Rankings: Mendoza Leads as QB1
The updated consensus rankings for the upcoming draft place Mendoza at the top, indicating confidence in his skills. His strong performance has helped him rise significantly in rankings, securing the QB1 position. Other top prospects have also emerged from prominent programs, particularly Ohio State.
Top Prospects Overview
- 1. Arvell Reese – Linebacker, Ohio State
- 2. Fernando Mendoza – Quarterback, Indiana
- 3. Caleb Downs – Safety, Alabama
- 4. Jeremiyah Love – Running Back, Notre Dame
- 5. David Bailey – EDGE, Florida State
In total, five Ohio State players have made it into the updated top 20 rankings, showcasing the university’s strong recruiting and training programs.
Quarterback Rankings
As more players declare for the draft by the January 23 deadline, the quarterback landscape remains dynamic. While Mendoza shines at QB1, Alabama’s Ty Simpson, currently ranked as QB2, has faced significant drops in rankings, falling from a previous spot at No. 5.
This fluctuation highlights the competitive nature of the draft, particularly within the quarterback position, where opportunities for movement are always available.
The final rankings will likely continue to evolve as the draft approaches, providing a clearer picture of prospects’ potential in the NFL.
