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Main Photo: [Gary Cosby] Imagn Images

4 NFL Draft QB Risers From Week 12

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports
By Gargi Sengupta | Last updated Nov 21, 2025 4:30 PM ET

The quarterback race for the 2026 NFL Draft continues to shift, and this week added even more fuel. A handful of passers have stacked enough late-season momentum to change how front offices view the board. With scouts locking in final evaluations, these four names kept climbing at the right time.

Top NFL Draft Risers From Week 12

Main Photo: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

1. Ty Simpson, Alabama

In a high-stakes road game against a stout Oklahoma defense, Ty Simpson delivered a mixed but impactful performance for Alabama. Simpson made a big play in the showdown against a tough defense. He completed the game at 66.7% completion percentage, 336 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. The 22-year-old has been one of the best quarterbacks in college football this season. Even with critical turnovers, Simpson displayed his ability to move the offense and pick apart Oklahoma’s secondary. If Simpson declares for the 2026 draft, he has a high chance of being drafted soon.

Nov 15, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans quarterback Jayden Maiava (14) moves out to pass against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

2. Jayden Maiava, USC

While he may not light up the highlight reel every week, Jayden Maiva is quietly one of the most efficient and composed quarterbacks out there. He is so steady in the pocket that he barely forces risky throws, and he does a fantastic job managing offenses and reading coverages. Maiava’s size and physicality add another layer of complexity. Running with confidence, he refuses to fold on contact, and he’s 6 feet 4 and 230 pounds. With 2,868 yards passing and 18 touchdowns against six interceptions, the star quarterback has been unstoppable this season. Not only that, but his total QBR was a stunning 90.7, ranking him among the best in the nation. Maiava is a superb choice for teams looking for a powerful swing on Day 2.

Nov 30, 2024; Clemson, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers (16) scores the winning touchdown against Clemson during the fourth quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Ruinard-Imagn Images

3. LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina

LaNorris Sellers has quietly pieced together one of the more intriguing profiles in the class. His arm jumps off the tape, and he has started to pair that power with better timing and decision-making. Sellers has become more selective with his vertical chances, and those calculated shots have helped him settle in as a far more efficient quarterback. The athletic frame is another bonus. He can extend plays, but he’s learned to stay patient long enough to let routes develop. Sellers has the kind of growth arc evaluators love once they dive into full-season tape.

4. Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

Fernando Mendoza has been one of the true plot twists of this draft cycle. His poise consistently shines through in big moments, and scouts have praised his ability to handle pressure effectively. Mendoza throws with anticipation, layers the ball into tight zones, and rarely looks rattled. He isn’t a burner, but he moves well enough to escape trouble and create clean angles. As word continues to spread, Mendoza has transformed from an overlooked name to a legitimate early-round sleeper who consistently meets essential criteria.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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