Macro view of the 2026 quarterback class within overall draft rankings, mocks, and big boards

The 2026 NFL quarterback class is shaping up as one of the most volatile and unpredictable in recent memory, with draft rankings, mock drafts, and big boards reflecting a landscape marked by uncertainty and strategic recalibration. As teams approach the draft, the interplay between athletic testing, medical evaluations, and positional value debates continues to drive significant movement among prospects.

Overall Draft Big Boards and How QBs Stack Up Versus Other Positions

Pre-combine big boards from analysts like Ric Serritella and Hayden Winks rank the top prospects across all positions, often highlighting the depth at skill positions like edge rushers, receivers, and linebackers. However, the quarterback position remains uniquely fluid. While some prospects such as Fernando Mendoza from Indiana and Ty Simpson from Alabama are highly regarded, their rankings fluctuate sharply based on combine performance and medical clearance.

Key observations:

• Quarterbacks' evaluation is heavily influenced by athletic drills and health metrics. A strong combine can elevate a prospect's stock, while injury concerns or poor testing results can cause steep declines.
• Prospects like Drew Allar have recovered from prior injuries and are expected to perform well at pro days, potentially boosting their rankings. His size, poise, and positive medical reports position him as a high-floor, developmental option with high upside.
• Medical red flags remain a concern. For example, Fernando Mendoza's shoulder injury history could cause him to slip or even go undrafted if not fully cleared. Conversely, prospects passing all health checks tend to see their stocks rise.

In comparison to other positions, quarterbacks often have the most dramatic ranking swings, reflecting their premium value but also the high risk associated with developmental projects and health issues.

Mock Drafts and Positional Value Discussions for Quarterbacks

Mock drafts from experts like Charles Davis and Gennaro Filice illustrate the ongoing debate about the value of quarterbacks in the early rounds. Some mocks project quarterbacks sliding into the second or third round, especially if top-tier prospects falter at the combine or medical evaluations reveal concerns.

Notable trends include:

• Teams’ willingness to trade up or down based on quarterback availability. Multiple first-round trades are expected, as teams weigh the potential of developmental quarterbacks versus immediate starters.
• The emergence of a second-tier quarterback—dubbed QB2—that has gained attention despite limited pre-combine buzz. This prospect's athletic ability, leadership qualities, and recent film improvements have prompted teams to reevaluate him, making him a wild card. Some teams, like the Steelers, are reportedly monitoring him closely and may consider early or mid-round picks to secure him.
• The Rams could be aggressive in early rounds if a desirable quarterback slips past the top ten, aiming to develop a young signal-caller for the future.

Positional value debates are central to the draft conversation:

• Teams like the Steelers and Rams seem willing to prioritize quarterbacks early, recognizing the importance of the position for sustained success.
• Conversely, some teams and analysts argue that the draft’s depth at other positions—such as edge rushers, offensive linemen, and defensive backs—may outweigh the premium placed on quarterbacks, leading to strategic trades and late-round value plays.

The Impact of Combine and Pro Days on Stock

The combine and pro days are pivotal in reshaping prospects’ draft stocks. Outstanding athletic performances can vault players into Day 2 consideration, while poor drills or injury setbacks cause significant downward movement.

Recent examples:

• Chambliss’s combine workout has solidified his status as a top linebacker, prompting teams like Dallas to trade up for him.
• Drew Allar’s upcoming combine throw is highly anticipated to confirm his arm strength and recovery status, which could push him into the first round.
• Ty Simpson’s impressive Senior Bowl showing and promising combine prospects could elevate him into Day 2 consideration, especially if he posts elite athletic metrics.

Strategic Surprises and Draft-Day Movement

The draft landscape suggests multiple surprises:

• A quarterback falling out of the top ten could trigger a draft-day trade frenzy, as teams desperate for a developmental or immediate starter scramble to acquire him.
• Multiple trades within the first round are expected, with teams leveraging draft capital to secure their preferred prospects.
• The Rams are likely to target a quarterback early in the second round if a top-tier option slips, aiming to develop him quickly and impact the NFC West.

Conclusion

The 2026 quarterback class exemplifies draft volatility driven by combine results, medical evaluations, team interest, and strategic gambles. As the combine and pro days unfold, expect sharp rises and falls among prospects, with teams making bold moves to maximize value. The emergence of a second-tier QB and the ongoing medical concerns will continue to shape the narrative, making this one of the most unpredictable drafts in recent memory.

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