Mendoza, Simpson or Nussmeier? Comparing the 2026 NFL Draft's top quarterback prospects

Now that the entire attention of the NFL has switched to the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, the impact of NIL deals has turned the quarterback market around. A perfect example of this is the situation of Ole Miss star Trinidad Chambliss, who recently secured a sixth year of eligibility through a historic court injunction, choosing the stability of Oxford over the uncertainty of a Day 2 selection.

In a new environment where high talentstays in school longer, the 2026 quarterback class is relatively shallow on depth but heavy on starters. For NFL scouts, the focus has narrowed to three distinct archetypes: Fernando Mendoza, Ty Simpson, and Garrett Nussmeier.

1. Fernando Mendoza (Indiana Hoosiers)

The Heisman Trophy winner is not a prospect anymore; he is a very experienced star. After leading the Indiana Hoosiers to a once-unthinkable national championship and becoming the school's first Heisman Trophy winner, Mendoza has solidified himself as the No. 1 overall pick.

Mendoza's talent is certainly one of a kind. During his title run, he posted a staggering 7.9% off-target rate. He is also a fearless leader who steps into the blizzard with the poise of a certified veteran.

However, Mendoza is a true dropback passer. If the pocket collapses or the play goes off-script, his effectiveness dips with it. As a player, he is more likely to take a sack than create a miracle off-platform, meaning that he will need a functional offensive line to thrive at the next level.

2. Ty Simpson (Alabama)

We could say that Ty Simpson is the player every coach dreams about. As the son of longtime UT-Martin coach Jason Simpson, Ty literally grew up on a football field, something clearly seen in his impressive footwork. Despite having only 15 starts, his iconic movement is considered the best in the class.

He is a confident processor who plays with zero wasted movements. He possesses a natural sense of how to climb a dirty pocket, reset his feet, and deliver an on-time strike. Through October of the 2025 season, he was arguably the best mental player in the country, navigating through complex SEC defenses with a sometimes insulting ease.

The 2025 season also showed things unravel down the stretch for Simpson. It is true that he struggled with composure in the final six games, leading to unexpected mistakes for someone who does not miss. Because his arm talent is not elite yet, he cannot always rip his way out of a bad decision, making his consistency a major talking point in draft rooms.

3. Garrett Nussmeier (LSU)

Last but not least, we have Garrett Nussmeier. If there is one word to describe him, it definitely is brave. After sitting behind Jayden Daniels for nearly two years, Nussmeier exploded in 2024. However, it was his 2025 campaign that saw his biggest performances and a test of will, as he played through a misdiagnosed core injury that influenced his velocity for much of the year.

Fresh off a 2026 Senior Bowl MVP performance where he finally looked healthy and ready for what is next to come, Nussmeier showed off the "NFL velocity" and explosive talent that made him a star. He is a very intelligent player who will never be overwhelmed by a pro playbook.

However, Nussmeier trusts his arm to a fault, leading to some head-scratching turnovers. Combined with his smaller stature and sub-9-inch hands, some scouts view him as a high-floor backup rather than a franchise centerpiece. He wants to prove them wrong next year.

The 2026 class reflects a new reality: the quarterback position as we knew it is disappearing. Thanks to NIL, players like Mendoza and Nussmeier are entering the league with more starts, more money in their pockets, and a more professional approach to the game.