2026 NFL Combine Quarterback Standouts: Mendoza Leads, Green Shatters Records, Allar Impresses
INDIANAPOLIS — The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine delivered electrifying performances from quarterback prospects on Saturday, with Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza solidifying his status as the top pick, Arkansas’ Taylen Green breaking records, and Penn State’s Drew Allar earning high marks in throwing drills. As quarterbacks, wide receivers, and running backs took the field at Lucas Oil Stadium, three signal-callers emerged as clear winners, boosting their draft stock ahead of the April 23-25 draft in Pittsburgh.
Mendoza Cements QB1 Status Without Throwing a Pass
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza did not participate in drills but left no doubt about his elite standing. Scouts and analysts unanimously project him as the No. 1 overall pick, with the Las Vegas Raiders frequently linked as his likely destination. His combine appearance focused on interviews and measurements, reinforcing his poise and leadership that have defined his college career. “Mendoza is all but certain to go to the Raiders at first overall,” reports noted, highlighting his arm talent and decision-making observed in prior evaluations.
“Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza has established himself as the top quarterback prospect in this draft class.”
Mendoza’s decision to skip workouts underscores confidence from NFL teams, who prioritize film study for top passers. His measurables and pro day performance will be key, but the buzz positions him ahead of the pack.
Green’s Athletic Feats Break Records, Draw Cunningham Comparisons
Arkansas QB Taylen Green stole the show with unprecedented athleticism, clocking a blistering 4.37-second 40-yard dash at 6-foot-6, 227 pounds — one of the fastest times ever for a quarterback. He shattered Anthony Richardson’s previous records, including a jaw-dropping 43.5-inch vertical jump, the highest by any QB in combine history. Green’s explosion has analysts drawing parallels to Hall of Famer Randall Cunningham.
Despite passing inconsistencies — with sideline and deep throws occasionally sailing wide — his physical tools skyrocketed his draft board. “Green may have done the most to rise up draft boards on Saturday,” one recap stated, emphasizing his 99th-percentile speed and frame suited for modern NFL offenses.
Allar Overcomes Slow Start for Downfield Dominance
Penn State’s Drew Allar (6-foot-5, 228 pounds) rebounded from early footwork struggles to deliver standout throws. His downfield passes “jumped out of his hand,” showcasing exceptional velocity and ease on go balls, comebacks, and fades. Earning a B grade overall, Allar impressed in the session’s second half, positioning him as a potential Day 2 pick.
“When it was time to uncork downfield throws, Allar was more than up to the task,” analysts observed. His arm strength stands out among peers, making him a winner despite not testing athletically.
Other QB Notes: Beck, Nussmeier Shine; Simpson Steady
Georgia’s Carson Beck opened strongly with precise out routes and comebacks, earning a B+ grade, though deep balls were inconsistent. LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier and Alabama’s Ty Simpson topped the second group, with Nussmeier’s deep nine-route to Ja’Kobi Lane hailed as the combine’s best throw. Illinois’ Luke Altmyer provided consistency across routes, while Kansas QB Jalon Daniels ran a 4.66 40-yard dash.
| Quarterback | School | Key Highlights | Grade/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fernando Mendoza | Indiana | QB1 projection; no drills | Projected No. 1 pick |
| Taylen Green | Arkansas | 4.37 40-yard dash, 43.5″ vert | Record-breaking athlete |
| Drew Allar | Penn State | Elite downfield throws | B grade; arm strength |
| Carson Beck | Georgia | Strong outs/comebacks | B+ grade |
Broader Combine Context
Beyond QBs, Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love locked in top-10 status with versatile drills, Indiana WR Omar Cooper Jr. hit 4.43 in the 40, and Mississippi State’s Brenen Thompson led WR speed. Coaching carousel whispers, like Klint Kubiak praising RB Ashton Jeanty, added offseason intrigue.
Raiders GM John Spytek’s comments on Eagles’ Howie Roseman highlighted trade wariness, while teams like the Vikings eye QB veterans amid draft plans. The combine’s public phase wraps, but private workouts and pro days loom large for these rising stars.
As prospects disperse, Mendoza, Green, and Allar stand tallest among quarterbacks, shaping a pivotal draft class rich with potential franchise changers.