The 2026 draft class is coming into solid focus now. As we approach the draft in one week, here’s a look at the second and final cut of our pre-draft rookie prospect rankings for April. Remember, we will be releasing initial short-term and long-term rookie rankings (positional and top 50 overall) for fantasy within one week of the conclusion of this draft.

1. Fernando Mendoza, Indiana- He is a very accurate passer at all levels and can avoid sacks. He throws with anticipation and delivers catchable balls in rhythm. He is outstanding at pre-snap processing. He is mobile, he is not considered a running QB. He can get the necessary yards while running outside of the pocket. He played in a system that created easy completions and it remains to be seen how that will translate into the NFL game. He will be the first pick in the draft without any doubt.
2. Ty Simpson, Alabama- He shows great pre-snap and post-snap mental processing. He has some inconsistency on deep balls but is great at other levels. He hits his receivers in stride allowing for YAC opportunities. Additionally, he has great pocket presence. He can extend plays with his legs. He is on the lighter side and may not be equipped right now to absorb season long punishment. He has had fumbling problems. He also does not have a lot of experience and his tendencies may be figured out by opposing defensive coordinators with more time.
3. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU - He is a high IQ QB who delivers the ball with touch and accuracy. He is on the small size and there are concerns whether he can take frequent hits. He does tend to gamble with tight window throws and can be fooled by post-snap disguises. He locks into his first read too often and does not have great pocket movement.
4. Carson Beck, Miami U- He has good pocket presence and exceptional ball placement skills. He processes quickly and has improved his decision-making. He can extend plays with his legs. He has problems with deep ball accuracy. He has problems with pressure up the middle and with coverage disguises.
5. Cade Klubnik, Clemson - He is athletic and efficient. He has great touch on the deep ball and is great with play action. He has excellent pocket awareness, especially sensing interior pressure. He has problems with pre and post-snap processing speed and downfield arm strength. His footwork can be sloppy. He often has problems finding the hot read.
6. Drew Allar, Penn State - He has a very good arm and throws with zip. He has a frame from central casting and can run. He throws from different angles and has a quick release. There are some accuracy and footwork issues. His processing is raw for someone who has started for 3 years, and he is easily rattled by interior pressure. He seems to be reliant on scheme and supporting cast.
7. Taylen Green, Arkansas - He has rare athleticism far beyond all other QBs at the combine. He can create with his legs and has good deep ball accuracy and natural arm strength. His pocket presence is good. His accuracy on short and intermediate routes is suspect especially under pressure and he isn’t always careful with the ball. His processing needs work.
8. Cole Payton, North Dakota State - He has an impressive amount of talent but only has one year as a starter. He is a large QB who is accurate on the move. He can create with his legs and is good with the deep ball. He does not turn the ball over frequently and has good touch. He does tend to hold the ball too long and will need development. He doesn’t have great zip and does not get his legs into his throws, causing velocity issues and inconsistent accuracy. The defense can jump his routes as a result. He needs work in processing.

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