Ben Solak Picks 9 QBs for 2026 NFL Draft, Mendoza
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- Ben Solak outlines a mock draft that places nine quarterbacks across the seven rounds, balancing scheme fit, team needs, and draft capital.
- Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) is projected as the first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders (Round 1, No. 1); his 2025 stats show a 72.0% completion rate, 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, six interceptions and seven rushing touchdowns, and he is praised for pocket footwork and ability to adapt to under‑center offenses despite limited under‑center experience.
- Ty Simpson (Alabama) is projected to be selected No. 31 by the Arizona Cardinals via a trade with the New England Patriots, with the Cardinals possibly using a fourth‑round pick to move up and targeting a 2027 pick for a future deal; his 2025 performance includes a 64.5% completion rate, 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, five interceptions and two rushing touchdowns.
- Garrett Nussmeier (LSU) is projected to be taken in the third round (No. 99) by the Pittsburgh Steelers; his 2025 stats feature a 67.4% completion rate, 1,927 yards, 12 touchdowns, five interceptions and one rushing touchdown, and his low fumble rate (seven fumbles in 1,804 snaps) and family ties to former Steelers coach Mike McCarthy are highlighted.
- 2026 QB class is described as not particularly dense, prompting Ben Solak to focus on nine draftable quarterbacks and consider trades and developmental picks to meet team needs.
Why it matters: Ben Solak’s mock draft highlights a shallow 2026 quarterback class, pushing teams to prioritize scheme fit and trade maneuvers for the nine identified prospects. Early‑round selections such as Mendoza for the Raiders or a trade‑up for Simpson give clubs a ready‑made starter, while later‑round picks like Nussmeier force franchises to invest in development to fill QB needs.
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