The focus is already turning to the 2026 NFL draft, with attention on the quarterback prospects. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza is currently projected as the QB1 and potential No. 1 overall pick.
Mendoza’s Strengths: Accuracy and Touch
Mendoza’s strengths include his accuracy and ability to make throws with timing and location. He had a 7.1% off-target rate last season. On throws of 20 or more air yards in 2025, Mendoza completed 53.8% and had 11 touchdowns. He also displays accelerated vision from the pocket, quickly reading coverages to find favourable matchups. Mendoza led the nation with 41 touchdown passes in 2025.
Mendoza plays in rhythm as a passer, throwing with pace and touch. He can also target the back shoulder on fade routes. His decision-making improves in critical field position. Mendoza had an FBS-high 27 red zone touchdown passes in 2025, and he did not throw an interception inside the 20-yard line over the past two seasons.
Allar’s Arm Strength and Simpson’s Pocket Presence
Drew Allar possesses the physical tools NFL teams seek. Allar is a fastball thrower who can drive the ball to every level of the field. Jaxson Dart is also in the mix.
Jaxson Dart is also being scouted. When the pocket is firm, Simpson plays with pro-ready mechanics, syncing his footwork and upper body together. Simpson passed for 1,143 yards on pocket attempts of 10-20 air yards. That’s the highest in this draft class.
Nussmeier’s Agility and Release
Garrett Nussmeier also brings intriguing qualities to the table. Nussmeier maintains positive eye level in the pocket, shuffling to reset his throwing window when the walls start to close in. He took only 15 sacks in 2025. Nussmeier can alter his arm angles, and he gets the ball out with speed. He’s a high-RPM thrower with an aggressive mentality, with a 2.58-second average time to throw last season.
Mendoza, Allar, Simpson and Nussmeier are the top prospects to watch.