The 2026 QB draft class is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing quarterback groups in recent memory. With a mix of returning college stars, new breakout candidates, and the backdrop of a shifting NFL quarterback landscape, fans and scouts are already circling names for the next big thing under center.

2026 QB Draft Class: Rising Stars and Key Storylines

Gazing ahead, the buzz around the 2026 QB draft class centers on several college quarterbacks with significant upside. According to a recent way-too-early mock draft by CBS Sports, LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier is grabbing national attention as a possible first overall selection. Nussmeier, whose father Doug is now the Saints' offensive coordinator, impressed in his first year as a full starter by displaying a powerful arm and sharp decision-making. His local connections and high ceiling make him a natural fit for teams searching for a franchise quarterback.

Another name drawing attention is Drew Allar from Penn State. Allar’s significant improvements under new leadership, combined with his prototypical frame and arm strength, set him up as a potential top-tier pick. Meanwhile, QB whispers around Arch Manning continue, but many experts expect him to remain at Texas for another year, likely making any draft entry a 2027 storyline instead.

What Sets the 2026 Quarterback Group Apart?

The 2026 QB draft class stands out for its depth and the variety of quarterback archetypes. Teams that once cycled through veteran free agents, like the New Orleans Saints, may finally seek their long-term answer. This trend comes after years of instability at the league’s most important position, as detailed in the ESPN coverage of Saints’ recent quarterback moves.

Players like LSU’s Nussmeier, Penn State’s Allar, and Miami’s Carson Beck headline a class filled with both polished leaders and developmental talents. Each brings a unique skill set—ranging from gunslinger mentalities to pocket-passing precision—that could reshape various NFL franchises in the coming years.

Potential First-Rounders: Names to Monitor in 2025 College Football

• Garrett Nussmeier (LSU): Local favorite for the New Orleans Saints. Strong arm, poised, and accurate.
• Drew Allar (Penn State): Traditional pocket passer with significant growth last season.
• Carson Beck (Miami): Transferred to a high-powered offense, set to bounce back and regain top-prospect status.
• Cade Klubnik (Clemson): Dual-threat abilities and a proven winner under pressure. Projected to draw interest from playoff-caliber teams.
• Sam Leavitt (Arizona State): Mobile, aggressive, and known for accuracy, especially under duress.

CBS Sports’ draft projections anticipate a shift, with more quarterbacks expected to be taken early in 2026 compared to recent years. Their outlook also highlights the need for several NFL teams—including the Browns, Rams, Lions, and Jets—to invest in young quarterbacks and break the cycle of short-term solutions. For a thorough breakdown of likely early picks and top talents in next year’s draft, the full CBS Sports mock draft offers in-depth analysis of prospects and team fits.

Quarterback Market Shifts: What It Means for 2026 and Beyond

Recent results in the NFL draft underscore the unpredictability of quarterback selections. For example, in 2025, Louisville’s Tyler Shough was taken in the second round—an unusual occurrence for a franchise like the Saints. His journey, detailed by NFL.com’s Saints draft analysis, shows how injury histories and team needs can quickly alter pre-draft expectations.

With quarterback-needy teams likely to be aggressive in 2026, expect the draft class to draw constant scrutiny throughout the college football season. Development, health, and team performance will all impact final draft stock for these top-tier prospects.

Conclusion: Why the 2026 QB Draft Class Matters

The upcoming 2026 QB draft class is more than a collection of stats and projections. It represents a turning point for several franchises seeking stability and star power at quarterback. As college football unfolds, scouts and fans alike will be glued to the performances of names like Garrett Nussmeier, Drew Allar, and others hoping to shape the next era of NFL football.

Stay tuned for further analysis and updates as the 2025 college football season kicks off. The race to the 2026 NFL Draft—and the search for the league’s next great quarterback—begins now.