Key Takeaways
- The 2026 NFL mock draft season has officially begun, with the first round draft order mostly set.
- Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and Oregon’s Dante Moore are the top two quarterback prospects, with Mendoza projected to go to the Raiders and Moore to be selected second.
- Alabama’s Ty Simpson is also considered a first-round quarterback, with some projections having him going to the Cleveland Browns or Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Simpson’s stock has been affected by his late-season performance, but he may still be considered by teams due to his quick processing and pocket awareness.
- The quarterback class is considered shallow, which could work in Simpson’s favor if he chooses to declare for the draft.
Introduction to the 2026 NFL Mock Draft Season
The 2026 NFL mock draft season has officially arrived, with the first round draft order mostly set before the playoffs. As is always the case, the buzz is surrounding the top quarterback prospects available in the draft. At the top of every mock draft is Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, who is projected to go to the Raiders. Mendoza’s impressive skills and performance have made him a standout candidate for the top pick. Oregon’s Dante Moore is also highly regarded, with most mock drafts having him going second overall.
The Top Quarterback Prospects
Mendoza and Moore are the clear top two quarterback prospects in the 2026 draft class. However, there are other quarterbacks who are also considered to be first-round material. One such quarterback is Alabama’s Ty Simpson. Simpson’s stock has been affected by his late-season performance, which has been less than stellar. Despite this, he is still considered to be a first-round prospect due to his quick processing and pocket awareness. These skills are highly valued by NFL coaching staffs, who may see Simpson as a passer worth developing.
Ty Simpson’s Draft Prospects
Simpson’s draft prospects are an interesting case study. On the one hand, his late-season performance has been disappointing, and he lacks the high-end tools that would make him a surefire first-round pick. On the other hand, the quarterback class is considered shallow, which could work in his favor. If Simpson chooses to declare for the draft, he may still be considered by teams who are looking for a quarterback with potential. In the latest NFL mock draft from USA TODAY Sports, Simpson is projected to go to the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 21. This is a testament to his potential and the fact that coaching staffs may see him as a worthwhile investment.
The Importance of Mock Drafts
Mock drafts are an important part of the NFL draft process. They provide a glimpse into how teams may approach the draft and which players are considered to be the top prospects. While mock drafts are not always accurate, they can be a useful tool for fans and teams alike. In the case of the 2026 draft, the mock drafts have highlighted the top quarterback prospects, including Mendoza, Moore, and Simpson. These players will be closely watched in the lead-up to the draft, and their performances will be scrutinized by coaching staffs and fans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2026 NFL mock draft season is in full swing, with the top quarterback prospects being closely watched. Mendoza and Moore are the clear top two prospects, but Simpson is also considered to be a first-round quarterback. While Simpson’s stock has been affected by his late-season performance, he may still be considered by teams due to his quick processing and pocket awareness. The shallow quarterback class could work in his favor, and he may be seen as a worthwhile investment by coaching staffs. As the draft approaches, fans and teams will be closely watching these players and others, and the mock drafts will continue to provide a glimpse into the possible outcomes.