As Sawyer Robertson knows, the 2026 NFL Draft is still two months away, but the last big event before the NFL Draft is just days away. The Combine will test the accuracy, power and mental acumen of the next generation of NFL quarterbacks. However, even before the tests commence, there is already a rough idea of who the best quarterbacks in the class are.
One quarterback in particular has already separated himself as the ubiquitous favorite heading into the spring. Here’s a look at the best quarterbacks in the 2026 NFL Draft before the Combine kicks off on Feb. 26.
Best Quarterbacks in 2026 Draft Class Heading Into NFL Combine
#5 – Sawyer Robertson, Baylor Bears
Sawyer Robertson is going under the radar heading into the combine, but the quarterback of the Baylor Bears is coming off two impressive seasons in terms of production that cannot be ignored. The quarterback has thrown for 59 touchdowns and 20 interceptions in his last two seasons, leading the Big 12 in passing yards, passing touchdowns and yards per game.
#4 – Ty Simpson, Alabama Crimson Tide
Ty Simpson is a bit of a wild card, but the potential is outstanding. The Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback threw for 28 touchdowns and five interceptions in his only starting season with the team. Meaning, he is likely to be raw coming into the NFL, but Simpson could have the highest ceiling of any quarterback. Of course, he could also have one of the lowest floors after only one season of tape to look at.
#3 – Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt Commodores
Diego Pavia’s Heisman meltdown aside, the quarterback is coming off three solid seasons in which his touchdown-interception ratios have been solid, with 88 touchdowns and 27 interceptions in 53 games of action. Pavia’s experience makes him a contender to be a Day 1 starter in the NFL. Of course, the meltdown raises character questions. Pavia also led the SEC in completion percentage, yards per attempt and passing touchdowns in 2025.
#2 – Carson Beck, Miami Hurricanes
Carson Beck hoisted two National titles in 2021 and 2022 before nearly winning a third in 2025. Between 2023 and 2024, Beck led his conference in seven passing categories across two different programs. Beck’s ability to produce on deep passes leaves some room for improvement, but he might be the safest pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, except for one quarterback.
#1 – Fernando Mendoza, Indiana Hoosiers
If Carson Beck and Fernando Mendoza had not faced off in the National Title game, Beck would have been the top prospect. However, thanks to an 11th-hour showdown that went Mendoza’s way, Mendoza gets the nod as the top quarterback to watch in the 2026 NFL Draft class. Mendoza’s 41 touchdown passes led the FBS, as did his air yards per attempt. Mendoza is no secret coming out of college, but he is the best prospect heading into March.
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