Predicting landing spots for top QBs in 2026 NFL Draft

The 2026 NFL draft is now just days away. 

With several teams entering the 2026 season desperate for answers under center after a wave of veteran deals and situations, the draft will shape multiple franchises, for better or worse. 

Here are the top five quarterbacks in the 2026 NFL draft and their predicted landing spots:

1. Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza (Las Vegas Raiders)

This one is a no-brainer and has been since the draft order was complete. Mendoza, the 6-foot-5, 236-pound Heisman Trophy winner, is the consensus top prospect after leading the Hoosiers to a national championship in 2025. 

He has prototypical size, good arm strength, mechanics and quick post-snap processing. He can vary velocity and touch to layer passes over second- and third-level defenders. The Raiders, holding the top pick after a poor season, have cycled through quarterbacks like Aidan O’Connell and Geno Smith without finding stability. Mendoza will finally be the answer the Raiders have been looking for. 

2. Alabama QB Ty Simpson (Arizona Cardinals)

Simpson to the Cardinals could be a blessing in disguise. The Cardinals have moved on from Kyler Murray and will likely add to their roster alongside veterans such as Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew.

Simpson is a developmental quarterback with starter upside in the NFL. Arizona’s early draft capital positions it well to select Simpson, whether that's at No. 3 overall, trading back into the first round or for a second-round pick if he's still available. His football intelligence and structure, inherited from a coaching family background, fit a team looking to build sustainably rather than chase immediate fixes.

3. Miami QB Carson Beck (Miami Dolphins)

Yes, Beck stays in Miami, his home state. The Dolphins signed Malik Willis this offseason, but with no certainty that he will be the long-term answer, why not take a chance on Beck?

He offers prototypical size, extensive experience, especially in big games, and good accuracy. The Dolphins have struggled to find consistency and may use a mid-round pick on a high-floor developmental prospect. Beck’s play could thrive in a structured offense.

4. LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier (Pittsburgh Steelers)

Nussmeier brings good arm talent, an NFL bloodline and scheme familiarity as his father, Doug Nussmeier, currently serves as the offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints. 

Yes, the Steelers will likely have Aaron Rodgers, who has spoken highly of Will Howard. But with Nussmeier’s strong Senior Bowl showing and NFL bloodline, the Steelers may take the chance. The Steelers face uncertainty at quarterback, and Pittsburgh’s coaching staff excels at developing passers, making it an ideal spot for Nussmeier to refine his decision-making and footwork.

5. Penn State QB Drew Allar (New York Jets)

Allar possesses ideal physical tools — size, arm strength and athleticism. The Jets currently don't have a long-term plan at quarterback, just a bridge, and this could be the spot for Allar. 

With Frank Reich in the picture as the new offensive coordinator, it could be a strong match for development. Reich has worked with Peyton Manning, Phillip Rivers and others; maybe he can help develop another elite quarterback. Allar’s upside suits offenses emphasizing play-action and mobility.