NFL scouts are assessing the quarterback landscape for the 2026 NFL Draft, and the consensus is that this class presents challenges for teams in need of a franchise signal-caller. Scouts acknowledge the lack of elite talent, with some already looking ahead to the potentially stronger 2027 draft class.

A Thin Quarterback Class

Despite the overall assessment, scouts believe there are viable quarterback options available with diligent evaluation. “There are 3-4 guys in this class that I think will have good NFL careers,” one scout stated. “Do I think any of them will be great? No. They’re not ‘can’t-miss’. But there’s talent there if you know what to do with it.”

Top 5 QB Prospects: Scouting Reports

Jayden Allar (Penn State)

Expectations were high for Allar entering the 2025 season, but a mid-October ankle injury and inconsistent performance led to a disappointing finish. He completed 26 starts in his college career.

Draft Range: Round 3-4

Height/Weight: 6-foot-5, 228 pounds

Scout Take: “My overall evaluation is that he’s good, but probably should have been better. He’s got great size and I love his arm. His mobility is good. His accuracy is good, but inconsistent.” The scout also noted regression as a senior and the impact of the injury.

Pro Comp: Josh Allen, Joe Flacco. “Same general scouting report as those guys: Big body, big arm, but an erratic arm.”

Biggest Strength: Size. Scouts consistently praised his physical stature.

Biggest Question Mark: Accuracy. His completion percentage fluctuated throughout his college career.

Best Fit: Los Angeles Rams. “They’re so loaded they can afford to take a shot on him on Day 2. He’d be a steal for Sean McVay.”

Kyron Barnes (Miami)

Barnes transferred to Miami after a down season and UCL surgery, showcasing improvement by completing 72.4% of his passes for 3,813 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, leading the Hurricanes to the CFP final. He started a total of 43 games between Georgia and Miami.

Draft Range: Rounds 3-4

Height/Weight: 6-5, 233 pounds

Scout Take: “He’s got the look of a classic, big, strong, pocket passer. When he sets and throws, the ball just jumps out of his hand.” Concerns were raised about his ability to handle pressure.

Pro Comp: Mac Jones, Kenny Pickett. “Neither are a perfect comparison…they are big, pocket passers who can wilt when the pass rush comes.”

Biggest Strength: Arm strength and pocket presence.

Biggest Question Mark: Play under pressure. His decision-making and zip on throws can suffer when rushed.

Best Fit: Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers. “He looks a little like Jared Goff…that Lions offense is the kind that he needs.”

Garrett Nussmeier (LSU)

Nussmeier’s 2025 season was impacted by an abdominal/core muscle injury, but he still threw for 1,927 yards and 12 touchdowns in nine starts. He made 23 career starts in college.

Draft Range: Rounds 3-4

Height/Weight: 6-2, 203 pounds

Scout Take: “It’s a shame about the injury because I really thought he was the No. 1 guy in the class going into the season. He’s got such a strong arm.” Scouts noted his toughness in playing through the injury.

Pro Comp: Baker Mayfield, Tony Romo.

Biggest Strength: His arm. He can deliver throws from various angles.

Biggest Question Mark: Questionable decision-making. His “gunslinger” mentality can lead to risky plays.

Best Fit: Pittsburgh Steelers. “He looks like McCarthy’s kind of quarterback.”

Julian Sayin (Alabama)

Sayin remained at Alabama for four years, earning the starting job in his final season and performing well on a CFP team, completing 64.5% of his passes for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. He started 15 games in his college career.

Draft Range: Low first round or second round

Height/Weight: 6-1, 211 pounds

Scout Take: “Boy, does he need another year. I like everything about him, but he’s not ready.” Scouts emphasized the need for further development.

Biggest Strength: Intelligence and arm talent.

Biggest Question Mark: Experience. He lacks extensive starting experience.

Jalen Rasberry (Texas Tech)

Rasberry had a strong 2025 season, completing 68.2% of his passes for 4,621 yards, 38 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. He started 28 games in college.

Draft Range: Round 2-3

Height/Weight: 6-3, 215 pounds

Scout Take: “He’s a good player, but I don’t know if he’s a franchise guy.”

Pro Comp: Gardner Minshew

Biggest Strength: Pocket presence and accuracy.

Biggest Question Mark: Arm strength.

Best Fit: New Orleans Saints