The 2026 NFL Draft's quarterback class is considered weak, with only Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and Alabama’s Ty Simpson expected to be first-round picks. Mendoza is projected to be the top pick for the Las Vegas Raiders, while Simpson may land in the second round. After these two, experts suggest a significant drop-off, predicting that only these two quarterbacks will be selected before Day 3 of the draft. Teams like the Steelers are exploring their options, but they might hold off on a quarterback until later rounds, given the current draft landscape.

By the Numbers
  • Mendoza is the projected No. 1 overall pick.
  • Simpson may be taken in the second round.
State of Play
  • Only two quarterbacks are projected to be selected in the first two days of the draft.
  • Examples of quarterbacks likely remaining include Drew Allar and Carson Beck.
What's Next

As teams prepare for the draft, it’s anticipated that few quarterbacks will be chosen early, possibly impacting teams like the Steelers who have multiple third-round picks but may wait to fill their quarterback needs.

Bottom Line

With a weak quarterback class expected in this year's draft, teams should be strategic, recognizing that immediate needs may have to wait as the focus shifts to the later rounds.