2026 NFL Combine Quarterback Standouts: Carson Beck, Drew Allar, and Ty Simpson Emerge as Top Winners
Indianapolis, IN – The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine wrapped up its quarterback workouts with standout performances from several top prospects, solidifying their draft stock amid buzzing trade rumors and free agency speculation.[1][2]
Day 3 of the event at Lucas Oil Stadium highlighted the quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers, but the signal-callers stole the show. Analysts and scouts pinpointed three clear winners from the group: Georgia’s Carson Beck, Penn State’s Drew Allar, and Alabama’s Ty Simpson, each impressing in throwing drills and athletic testing.[2][3]
Carson Beck’s Precision Shines with B+ Grade
Carson Beck kicked off his session with remarkable accuracy on out routes, demonstrating crisp timing and touch. His performance on comeback and hinge routes further showcased his arm talent, though deep balls showed some inconsistency with two off-target throws.[2] CBS Sports awarded him a B+ grade, positioning him as a potential Day 2 pick and possibly the second or third quarterback selected in the April 23-25 draft in Pittsburgh.[2]
Beck’s strong start has him firmly in the conversation among elite prospects, trailing only Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, who has cemented himself as the class’ top quarterback.[2]
Drew Allar’s Strong Arm Overcomes Early Struggles
Penn State quarterback Drew Allar faced early challenges, with errant throws on out routes and footwork issues plaguing his initial reps. However, he rebounded impressively in the second half, excelling on go balls, comebacks, and fade routes.[2] Chat Sports analyst Jack Sperry praised Allar’s strongest arm of the day and rotational throwing mechanics, noting significant social media buzz.[3]
Allar’s resilience and late-session dominance earned him a spot on multiple winners’ lists, with scouts envisioning him as a Day 2 steal behind a veteran in a contender.[3]
Ty Simpson’s Consistency Draws Raves
Alabama’s Ty Simpson rounded out the triumvirate of winners, delivering consistent throws throughout his workout. Sperry highlighted Simpson among the top performers, emphasizing his poise under the bright lights of the combine.[3] His performance has fueled projections of a rising draft stock, appealing to teams seeking a reliable pocket passer.
Other Notable QB Performances
- Luke Altmyer (Illinois): Most consistent from start to finish, excelling in ball placement and anticipation across all routes. Measurables: 6-foot-1¾, 210 pounds, 9-inch hands.[2]
- Tailon Green (Arkansas): Posted one of the most impressive athletic tests in combine history, including a crazy vertical jump, broad jump, and mid-4.3s 40-yard dash.[3]
- Cole Payton: Left-handed thrower impressed in athletic testing more than on-field drills, with early timing issues in the gauntlet.[2]
Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza remains the consensus top prospect, but the depth at quarterback was evident.[2]
Combine Buzz Extends to NFL Trades and Free Agency
Beyond workouts, the combine served as a hotbed for NFL intel. ESPN’s Matt Bowen and Jeremy Fowler reported Vikings interest in veteran QBs like Kyler Murray, Geno Smith, Tua Tagovailoa, and Kirk Cousins, potentially via trade or release.[1] Raiders QB Aidan Smith also generated sneaky market buzz, with coaches believing he was hampered by his team’s system last season.[1]
Colts deliberations over tagging QB Daniel Jones or WR Alec Pierce dominated conversations, with the team committed to retaining Pierce long-term.[1] Franchise tags loomed as the deadline approached, with free agency negotiations opening March 9.[1]
Broader Combine Implications
While quarterbacks dominated headlines, other positions saw highlights like Brennan Thompson’s combine-fastest 4.26-second 40-yard dash.[3] Winners lists also included RB Ashton Jeanty and coaches like Sean Payton, per Sports Illustrated.[4]
Losers? Eagles GM Howie Roseman’s reputation for shrewd trades raised antennae among peers.[4] The event underscored the fluid quarterback market heading into the draft.
“Beck is in the conversation to be the second or third quarterback off the board.” – CBS Sports[2]
Looking Ahead to the Draft
With the 2026 NFL Draft set for Pittsburgh, these combine performances will heavily influence mock drafts and team boards. Scouts now have tape on measurables, 40 times, and throws, tracked live via NFL.com and Dynasty Nerds tools.[5][6]
The quarterback class’ depth, combined with veteran movement, promises an eventful offseason. Teams like the Vikings, Raiders, and Colts are poised for pivotal decisions.[1]
As prospects depart Indianapolis, the NFL world turns its eyes to free agency and the all-important draft, where today’s winners could become tomorrow’s stars.