A “Too Early” Look at the 2026 NFL Quarterback Draft Class

The 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh will feature a rich bounty of future quarterbacks, perhaps the richest in recent memory. In 2024, the league drafted five quarterbacks in the first twelve picks. However, with several 2026 prospects boasting elite physical tools and high football IQs, teams in need of a franchise signal-caller will have plenty of options. 

Here are Draft Nation’s top five quarterback prospects to watch:

1. Arch Manning – Texas

The grandson of NFL legend Archie Manning, Arch has been a household name since high school. After two years as a backup, he's ready to take the reins for the Texas Longhorns in 2025. In limited action to date, Manning has showcased impressive poise and arm strength. Can he carry on the third generation of Manning legacies in the NFL?

The Saints (and his grandfather’s former team) hope so, as they appear to be the front runners to land the first pick overall. And no team is more desperate for a quarterback than the Saints after starter Derek Carr’s retirement earlier this week. Sure, the Saints did draft Louisville’s Tyler Shough in the second round, but with an elite talent like Manning staring them in the face, it will be hard for them (or any team that finishes with the first overall pick) to pass on the promise of another Manning.

2. Garrett Nussmeier – LSU

Another NFL legacy, Garrett Nussmeier is the son of Saints offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier. He did well at LSU this past season but decided to return to Death Valley and add to his experience and resume before declaring for the NFL draft. 

The son of a former quarterback and coach, he’s got a high football IQ, as one would expect, with a quick and purposeful release. And as importantly, he has the arm strength to make all the necessary throws. 

Nussmeier’s 2024 campaign was impressive, as he passed for over 4,000 yards and scored 29 touchdowns. With another strong season, he could solidify his status as a top five pick.

3. Drew Allar – Penn State

Allar, at 6'5" and 236 pounds, possesses the ideal size for a pro-style quarterback. He’s got great arm strength and has proven he can make all the throws and manage the pocket effectively. 

While Allar has been inconsistent at times, teams may look beyond that, falling in love with his physical tools. With a strong season, Allar can end up near or at the top of the 2026 class of quarterbacks. 

4. LaNorris Sellers – South Carolina

Sellers is the biggest wildcard in this class. He’s a monstrous dual-threat quarterback in with a frame like Anthony Richardson, standing at 6'3" and tipping the scales at 242 pounds. He has a strong arm but can make plays with his legs and generate yards if plays break down. 

In 2024, he passed for over 2,500 yards and rushed for nearly 700 more before his injury. His blend of size, athleticism, and playmaking ability makes him an intriguing prospect. If he stays healthy and proves 2024 wasn’t a fluke, his dual-threat ability could slot him in as high as the second quarterback off the board in next year’s draft. 

5. Cade Klubnik – Clemson

Klubnik has a chance to make the most noise in this deep class of signal callers. He’s proven over his years at Clemson to be a dynamic playmaker, winning with both his arm and his legs. With room to add muscle to his 6'2" frame, Klubnik can beat teams with a deadly combination of strength, football IQ, and scrambling ability. He has shown flashes of brilliance, but scouts will look for him to become more consistent for him to rise in the draft rankings.