In-depth coverage of leading quarterback prospects’ evaluations, reputations, and draft stock volatility

The 2026 NFL quarterback class is shaping up to be one of the most volatile and unpredictable in recent memory. As teams inch closer to the draft, a combination of scouting evaluations, athletic performances, medical insights, and internal rumors are causing significant fluctuations in prospects’ projected draft ranges. Understanding the nuances behind these movements offers valuable insight into how teams are assessing their options and which players are rising or falling in the rankings.

Key Prospects and Their Evaluations

Among the top names, Fernando Mendoza from Indiana stands out as a highly polarizing figure. Despite strong leadership qualities and impressive arm talent highlighted during his pro day, Mendoza’s injury history—particularly a shoulder injury—has raised red flags among medical teams. Some analysts suggest that unless fully cleared, Mendoza could slip out of the draft entirely or become an undrafted free agent. This medical concern underscores how health evaluations are critical in determining draft stock, especially for quarterbacks where durability is paramount.

Cade Klubnik from Clemson has also encountered injury concerns. Suffering a minor injury during his pro day, teams are now weighing injury risks more heavily, with some fearing that even minor setbacks could cause a prospect’s stock to fall.

Conversely, prospects like Drew Allar are benefiting from positive health reports. After recovering from ankle surgery, Allar is expected to throw at his pro day, which could reinforce his profile as a high-floor, developmental quarterback. His size, poise, and favorable team reports make him a candidate for a significant rise, potentially into the first round if combine performances impress.

Trajectory of Other Notable Prospects

Garrett Nussmeier of LSU has seen his stock decline amid injury narratives and inconsistent testing results. Despite publicly asserting his readiness after addressing a shoulder injury, ongoing medical questions have made teams hesitant. Without standout combine numbers, Nussmeier’s projection has shifted toward late-round or free-agent territory.

On the rise are Ty Simpson and Daniel Jeremiah’s Top 50 prospects. Simpson gained momentum after a promising Senior Bowl showing, with athleticism and processing skills drawing positive attention. A strong combine—particularly in 40-yard dash, vertical jump, and agility drills—could elevate him into Day 2 consideration. His mobility and improvisational ability fit well with teams emphasizing athletic quarterbacks.

Drew Allar continues to be a prospect to watch. His recovery from ankle surgery and upcoming combine throw are critical moments that could solidify his standing. A stellar athletic performance might push him into the first round, especially given his size, poise, and team feedback.

The Emergence of the QB2

An intriguing development is the emergence of a second-tier quarterback, dubbed QB2, who has gained attention despite limited pre-combine buzz. His athletic ability, leadership qualities, and recent film improvements have led teams to reevaluate him, making him a wild card in draft-day movements. Some teams see him as a late-round value or a trade target, adding an element of unpredictability to the quarterback market.

How Combine, Interviews, and Rumors Shape the Draft

The combine, pro days, interviews, and circulating rumors play pivotal roles in reshaping prospects' draft stocks:

• Athletic testing remains a key factor. For example, Simpson’s potential to improve his standing hinges on a strong combine showing. A top performance could see him leap into Day 2, while a disappointing workout might cause him to slide further.

• Medical evaluations continue to influence rankings. The uncertainty surrounding Mendoza’s shoulder injury and Klubnik’s minor injury have teams cautious, potentially pushing these players down the board.

• Team interest and internal discussions are also critical. Recent rumors suggest that the Pittsburgh Steelers are closely monitoring QB2, with some speculating they might consider an early or mid-round pick to secure him. Similarly, analysts like Mel Kiper Jr. see the Los Angeles Rams as a prime destination if a top-tier quarterback slips past the top ten picks, emphasizing their aggressive stance if value presents itself.

• Advanced analytics and proprietary metrics are increasingly guiding evaluations. Some teams favor prospects with high efficiency grades or impressive on-field performance, even if combine numbers are not elite.

Draft-Day Scenarios and Strategic Moves

The draft is poised for multiple surprises, especially at the quarterback position:

• A top quarterback falling out of the top ten could trigger a trade frenzy, as multiple teams scramble to acquire a developmental or immediate starter.
• Within the first round, multiple trades are expected, with teams leveraging draft capital to move up for their preferred prospects.
• The Rams might target a quarterback early in the second round if a top-tier option unexpectedly falls, aiming to develop him for the NFC West.

Final Outlook

The 2026 quarterback class exemplifies draft volatility driven by combine performances, medical evaluations, team interest, and strategic gambles. As the combine and pro days unfold, expect sharp rises and falls among prospects. The ongoing intrigue around QB2 and health concerns will continue to be central themes, making this draft one of the most unpredictable in recent memory.

In conclusion, nothing is certain until the final pick. The league’s future stars are waiting to be discovered amid a swirl of talent, analytics, and strategic moves—setting the stage for a draft that could redefine NFL rosters and the quarterback landscape for years to come.