Our ranking of the top 2026 NFL Draft quarterbacks is beginning the process early on. These features showcase a combination of accomplished masters and creative newcomers. Drew Allar, J.J. Mendoza, and Arch Manning are like UFOs implanted in these players. Their unique skill sets, coupled with dynamic performances, make them exceptional. As college football progresses through the season, analysts and scouts are closely observing how these quarterbacks perform on the field.
Drew Allar has the prototypical size with elite arm talent. Combined with his impressive athletic profile, this makes him a very attractive prospect for NFL teams. Allar has made some considerable strides this season to improve his accuracy. His recent 7.2% off-target percentage means he’s now ranked 19th in the FBS. His talent in completing the right pass despite consistent pressure rounds out his case as a first-round talent.
Performance Under Pressure
As we move later into the season, QB performance under pressure quickly rises to the top among most important factors in evaluations. Neither Carson Beck nor Cade Klubnik has done particularly well in this aspect of the game. Beck’s failure to adjust forced him into the transfer portal, where his rough closing act at Georgia found him a new home. He had difficulties under pressure, with an inaccurate 45.8% of his passes completed under duress.
Just like Beck’s situation, Klubnik’s now resembles that. With true pressure on him, he’s only connected on 46.3% of his pass attempts. In the interim, he’s been pressured on 42.5% of his dropbacks, which is eighth in the FBS. Experts point out that both signal callers will need to improve their play when the pressure is on. This step forward is important for establishing their reputations as legitimate NFL prospects.
“The biggest issue is that he looks good against the low- and middle-tier teams, but he just hasn’t had that signature performance any time that he plays against the elite ones,” – Anonymous scout.
The Future of College Quarterbacks
Through all of this, Arch Manning is still the story as the discussion just became centered around him having freakish talent. On the season, Manning has averaged a stellar 11.2 air yards per passing attempt, which ranks fourth in the FBS. His deep ball accuracy, coupled with impressive tactical decision-making, have made him a highly-coveted draft prospect for 2024 and beyond.
Meanwhile, Garrett Nussmeier has been equally impactful this fall. He’s thrown for an impressive 1,159 total passing yards. In five games, he’s completed 67 percent of his passes for seven touchdowns and three picks. Aside from the fact that Nussmeier has converted an impressive 54.3% of his third-down passes this season. This elite rate is the best in the FBS, highlighting his prowess to thrive while under duress.
Over the past two seasons, Tyler Mateer has established a reputation as one of the most talented hybrids in the game. His ridiculous average of 351.3 yards of total offense per game has him ranked second in the FBS. If he can prove he can make an impact as an offensive role player, he’s a name to track in the mid-to-late rounds as the draft approaches.
“He’s grown on me a lot over these past few weeks,” – Anonymous analyst.
An Eye on Potential
As scouts rank these quarterbacks’ talents, most agree that with the right coaching, a great deal of development can unlock their potential.
“If a team with a good offensive playcaller can get their hands on him and be patient, I think he has a tremendous ceiling, but it has to be a long, patient process.” – Anonymous expert.
This sentiment echoes throughout discussions among analysts and scouts alike as they continue to assess each quarterback’s readiness for the NFL. A mix of physical traits, touch-up, and late-game heroics will determine their fates continuing towards the draft.
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