The 2026 NFL Draft quarterback class has been a topic of much discussion and debate among football fans and experts alike. With the recent announcement of Oregon’s Dante Moore’s decision to return to college football, the field has become even thinner. But amidst all the uncertainty, there is one name that stands out – Fernando Mendoza from Indiana.
Mendoza has already established himself as a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft, with his impressive performance on the field and strong leadership skills. It’s no surprise that he has been projected as a first-round pick and the Raiders seem to be a likely destination for him. But what sets him apart from the rest of the class?
For starters, Mendoza has proven himself to be a versatile player, excelling in both passing and rushing. He has a strong and accurate arm, often making difficult throws look effortless. His agility and speed on the field make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. But what truly sets him apart is his ability to read the game and make smart decisions under pressure. This is a quality that is highly coveted in NFL quarterbacks and Mendoza has it in abundance.
But it’s not just his on-field abilities that make him an attractive prospect. Mendoza is known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his craft. He is constantly looking to improve and is not afraid to put in the hard work necessary to achieve his goals. This mindset has earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates and coaches, making him a natural leader on and off the field.
Despite being a young player, Mendoza has a maturity and level-headedness that is rare to find in players his age. He is able to stay calm and composed in high-pressure situations, a quality that is crucial for success in the NFL. This, combined with his natural talent and determination, makes him a promising prospect for any team in need of a quarterback.
As for the other top prospects, Dante Moore’s decision to return to Oregon has definitely made the 2026 NFL Draft quarterback class thinner. Moore was seen as a strong contender for a first-round pick, but his choice to continue his college career has changed the landscape of the draft. However, there is still one more top-end option available – Alabama’s Ty Simpson.
Simpson, like Mendoza, has been a standout player in college football. He possesses a powerful arm and is known for his precision passing. His athleticism and ability to evade tackles make him a dynamic player on the field. But what truly makes Simpson a top prospect is his mental toughness and determination. He has a strong will to win and will do whatever it takes to lead his team to victory.
As of now, Simpson seems to be the lone top-tier option available for teams in need of a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft. And with Mendoza and Moore off the table, the demand for Simpson is only going to increase. His impressive performance in college has already caught the attention of many NFL teams, and it won’t be surprising to see him being selected as a first-round pick.
In fact, Simpson has already been compared to NFL star Jalen Milroe, who has a contract worth $200 million. If Simpson’s college career is anything to go by, he has the potential to match Milroe’s success in the NFL. His athletic abilities and strong work ethic make him the perfect candidate to replace Milroe as Alabama’s quarterback.
But Simpson’s journey to the NFL won’t be an easy one. He will have to prove himself against tough competition and showcase his abilities to impress potential teams. However, given his track record, there is no doubt that he has what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
In conclusion, the 2026 NFL Draft quarterback class may be thin, but there is no shortage of talent and potential. With players like Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson leading the pack, it’s safe to say that the future of the NFL is in good hands. And for fans eagerly waiting to see these young players take the field, the 2026 NFL Draft is definitely something to look forward to.