The 2026 NFL Draft quarterback class is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing classes in recent years, with multiple candidates gunning to become the number one quarterback in this class. From raw athletic freaks to poised pocket passers, here is a breakdown of the top 10 QBs eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft.
10. John Mateer, Oklahoma
Mateer is one of the most exciting players in this class. He has a quick release, solid arm, and a gamer mentality that can make big plays at all times. He can be a team leader, and he is somebody who you want to watch at all times because of his dynamic playmaking ability. Sometimes though, this can be a weakness. He needs to hone in his erratic plays, and play a bit more of a pro-style game, and he might be a day 2-3 candidate in the upcoming draft.
9. Nico Iamaleava, UCLA
Nico Iamaleava's offseason headlines flooded this year's offseason. After a NIL dispute with Tennessee, then transferring to UCLA, Nico will enter into a more pro-style system that should help his development. He possesses a big frame, tight spiral, and an arm that can make any throw on the field. He needs to work on accuracy, working under pressure, and playing with more consistency. If he does so, he has the talent to become a top pick in the 2026 Draft.
8. Carson Beck, Miami
Once a top QB prospect in 2023, 2024 proved to be a hard year for Beck with the Bulldogs. Beck has fundamental flaws handling pressure, and this year those flaws got fully exploited. However, he still has solid size, good processing, and a good arm to get the job done. If he can improve with Miami against pressure, Beck could reenter the early round discussion.
7. Sam Leavitt, Arizona State
Leavitt is a fun watch. He’s young, energetic, and has a really nice arm. He was efficient and avoided turnovers in 2024, but Arizona State’s Skattebo-centric offense may have shielded some of his flaws. If Leavitt can make some improvements in his game, gain more experience, and quicken his release a bit, then he might just be able to get some major buzz heading into next year's draft.
6. LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina
Sellers is the ultimate boom-or-bust prospect. With elite size, athleticism, and arm talent, he has drawn a lot of comparison to Anthony Richardson. It is rare to find a unique talent like Sellers, and when you do, you have to take a deep look. He is very raw, with processing issues, accuracy inconsistency, and general inexperience, but if he can work on these things, he will hear his name early in 2026.
5. Cade Klubnik, Clemson
After a rocky start to his college career, Klubnik has really come to form in recent years, especially in 2024. He is accurate, athletic, and comes with a lot of experience. He has some flaws however, he is relatively smaller and does not have elite arm talent. However, he is fundamentally sound and always makes the right play. He is a high floor QB talent that should be able to succeed early in the correct system.
4. Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Mendoza is a name to remember for the upcoming season. With Cal, he showcased NFL-caliber processing, rhythm, and poise in the pocket. He has a very solid arm and plays with a chip on his shoulder. He is a bit too conservative at times, as well as does not have elite size nor arm strength. He reminds many of a Jared Goff or Kirk Cousins type QB, unlikely to be a superstar, but can be a steady starter for many years.
3. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
He plays with clean mechanics, has a strong build, and is not afraid to make tight window throws. He does play like a gunslinger, which can be both a pro and a con. Sometimes he will throw a boneheaded pass or make a few plays that have you scratching your head. If he irons that out and and takes strides as a consistent processor and playmaker, then he might find himself in round one conversations.
2. Drew Allar, Penn State
Allar is a bit of a polarizing prospect. However, Allar has all the tools to succeed at the next level. He is well built, strong, athletic, and will have lots of in game experience. Allar is haunted with poor performances in big moments, especially against top tier programs. Allar in 2025 has no excuses. With a stellar roster, it is time for Allar to win some big games. If he answers those questions, with his talent, he might find himself as QB1 in the 2026 class.
1. Arch Manning, Texas
The most famous last name in football comes with very high expectations. And although Arch Manning has only played a handful of games, so far, he has lived up to that name. He is fundamentally sound, athletic, and a great processor of the field. His few knocks is his lack of experience, and sometimes being a bit too aggressive downfiled. This year, Manning takes the reins as a full-time starter, and if he shines like expected, he could take the leap to become QB1 in either 2026 or 2027.