NFL Executives Express Doubts About 2026 Quarterback Prospects

The optimism surrounding the 2026 NFL Draft class, particularly its quarterback prospects, is beginning to wane among NFL executives. Just a year ago, many anticipated that this class would produce a wealth of talent compared to the previous year. However, as the fall season unfolds, concerns are emerging regarding the performance of college quarterbacks.

One unnamed NFL executive shared with The Athletic’s Jeff Howe that no standout candidates have emerged, stating, “Nobody is playing the position well enough to be like, ‘That dude can take over my franchise.'” This sentiment reflects a broader unease as teams like the Tennessee Titans (1-8), New Orleans Saints (2-8), and New York Giants (2-8) struggle in the league standings, potentially seeking a first-round quarterback in the upcoming draft.

As of now, Tyler Shough, a rookie with the Saints, has only started twice, leaving his potential as a professional quarterback uncertain. Meanwhile, Cam Ward of the Titans and Jaxson Dart of the Giants have displayed some promise. Yet, both teams are expected to undergo coaching changes before the NFL Scouting Combine, which could shift their focus away from these quarterbacks.

Another NFL executive conveyed skepticism, remarking, “I don’t love any of [the quarterbacks] right now. We’re trying to grasp onto somebody because there isn’t anybody.” The inconsistency in performances has led to a feeling of desperation regarding the available talent.

Historically, quarterback-needy teams have faced challenges in finding franchise players. Just last January, several front-office personnel asserted that all six quarterbacks taken in the first round of the 2024 draft were superior to those expected in the 2025 class. Currently, statistics from ESPN indicate that Ward ranks last among qualified players in the NFL with a 24.4 adjusted QBR this season. Dart, who has performed well, is currently sidelined due to a concussion, having been evaluated for head injuries four times since the preseason.

In various mock drafts updated throughout November, three different analysts from CBS Sports have placed Fernando Mendoza of Indiana as the top quarterback prospect. Only Blake Brockermeyer has suggested that LaNorris Sellers of South Carolina would go first overall if the draft were conducted today.

Concerning the overall quarterback prospects, a third executive expressed disappointment, stating, “Overall, we were hoping it was going to be better than last year.” He noted a lingering effect from the strong quarterback class two years prior, which set high expectations for this year’s prospects. Some younger players are reportedly considering returning to college, influenced by the financial benefits of name, image, and likeness deals.

While there remains time for a college quarterback to rise to prominence before the draft, the outlook for those anticipating multiple franchise quarterbacks in 2026 appears increasingly bleak. The coming months will be critical in determining whether any players can alter the current narrative surrounding this draft class.