The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event, with the quarterback position at the forefront of discussions. Two names are consistently rising to the top of mock drafts: Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore. These standout college quarterbacks are generating significant buzz and are expected to be the first two quarterbacks selected in the upcoming draft.
Fernando Mendoza, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, is widely regarded as the top quarterback prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. His impressive college career has garnered attention from numerous NFL teams, all eager to secure his talents. Mendoza's potential landing spots vary, but he is almost universally predicted to be the first overall pick. His performance in the College Football Playoff (CFP) has solidified his status as the top quarterback prospect, with Indiana facing off against Alabama in the quarterfinals.
Dante Moore, from the University of Oregon, is another standout quarterback in this draft class. While Mendoza is often considered the "safer" quarterback, Moore's potential as a game-changer makes him an equally attractive option. The Las Vegas Raiders, who are in dire need of a new quarterback, have been linked to both Mendoza and Moore. However, the consensus is that Moore might be the more explosive and dynamic choice for the Raiders, potentially making him the second overall pick.
The 2026 NFL Mock Draft landscape is filled with intriguing possibilities and potential trades. Teams like the Cleveland Browns, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Jets are all in the market for a new quarterback, making the top of the draft a particularly exciting place. The anticipation of who will land these top quarterback prospects has already sparked conversations about potential trades and draft-day deals.
One of the most exciting aspects of this draft is the potential for a repeat of the historic trade that saw the Los Angeles Rams acquire Jared Goff with the first overall pick in 2016. Although no team has yet traded up to the top spot for a quarterback in recent years, the possibility remains open, especially given the high stakes and the talent available at the top of this draft.
As the NFL Draft approaches, the focus on Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore will only intensify. Both quarterbacks represent the future of the NFL, and their performances in the College Football Playoff will be closely watched. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting the draft to see where these top prospects will land and how they will impact their new teams.
