The Battle for the Top QB Spot: Mendoza's Rise Sparks Debate
The 2026 NFL Draft quarterback class is shaping up to be a fascinating one, with a heated debate already brewing among scouts and analysts. The spotlight is on Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, whose rise to prominence has divided opinions and sparked intriguing discussions.
Early Predictions, Shattered Dreams
It's that time of the year again when the initial mock drafts and prospect rankings are turned upside down. The college football season has been a rollercoaster, with some highly-touted players struggling to live up to the hype, and others emerging from the shadows to stake their claim for a first-round pick.
Our initial focus on the 2026 QB prospects centered on existing tape, but as the season progressed, some inexperienced players began to shine. Arch Manning, the highly anticipated NFL legacy, had a rocky start, with an underwhelming performance against Ohio State, San Jose State, and UTEP. Despite some standout games, Manning's inconsistent play has left scouts questioning his QB1 status.
Struggles and Surprises
LSU's Garrett Nussmeier, once a promising prospect, has failed to meet expectations, with a disappointing 2-4 record in SEC play. The benching of Nussmeier in favor of Michael Van Buren Jr. against the Crimson Tide highlights the ongoing search for a spark in struggling offenses. Meanwhile, Drew Allar's once-promising career at Penn State has been marred by a brutal 2025 campaign and a season-ending injury.
Clemson's Cade Klubnik, South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers, UCLA's Nico Iamaleava, and Ole Miss's Austin Simmons have all faced setbacks, while Oklahoma's John Mateer hasn't replicated the magic of his fellow transfer, Cam Ward.
The Big 12 Trio and Mendoza's Rise
Amidst the chaos, a trio of Big 12 quarterbacks have stood out: Sam Leavitt, Sawyer Robinson, and Avery Johnson. But the real surprise has been Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, who has not only met but exceeded expectations under Curt Cignetti.
ESPN's Matt Miller has declared Mendoza the top quarterback in the 2026 class, praising his pocket poise, arm talent, and clutch performances. However, Jordan Reid, also from ESPN, offers a more cautious perspective, acknowledging the competition and the potential of other prospects.
The Challengers: Moore and Simpson
Two prospects with the potential to challenge Mendoza are Dante Moore of Oregon and Alabama's Ty Simpson. Both are shorter and lighter than Mendoza, and while Moore is getting his first starting opportunity since his UCLA days, Simpson has impressed in his limited starting role.
Simpson's inexperience hasn't hindered his performance, showcasing impressive decision-making skills. Moore, on the other hand, is still working on consistency, but his growth since his UCLA days is evident.
The Midseason Rankings Controversy
Dane Brugler's midseason draft rankings have added fuel to the fire, listing only four quarterbacks in his top 50 prospects. Simpson takes the second spot, followed by Mendoza, Moore, and Sellers. The limited starting experience of Simpson and the developmental needs of Moore and Sellers have sparked a debate: should they stay in college for another year?
Brugler's assessment of Mendoza reflects the mixed opinions, stating that NFL teams are divided on his pro potential. While some believe he has already reached his peak, others are impressed by his high football IQ, accuracy, and composure.
The Race for the Top QB Spot
With a month of college football remaining before bowl games, the race for the top QB spot is far from over. While Mendoza currently leads the pack for some teams, the QB board remains muddy, leaving room for other passers to make their case. And this is the part most people miss—the ongoing development and surprises that will shape the draft class. So, who do you think will emerge as the top quarterback? Is Mendoza the real deal, or will a challenger rise to claim the throne? Share your thoughts in the comments!
