Overview
- Multiple NFL executives told The Athletic they do not see a clear franchise-caliber passer in the 2026 class, a view summarized Friday by Bleacher Report.
- Despite reservations, Fernando Mendoza is widely viewed as QB1, praised for toughness and late-game poise, with a 71.3% completion rate, 2,342 yards, 26 touchdowns and 5 interceptions through 10 games for undefeated Indiana.
- Cleveland is expected to target a quarterback early in 2026 and holds two first-round picks, including Jacksonville’s, creating flexibility to move up if needed.
- A Cleveland.com mock draft, cited by Heavy, projects the Browns selecting Mendoza to replace struggling starter Dillon Gabriel.
- Ty Simpson has surged as a challenger while Dante Moore is rumored to return to Oregon, yet executives still expect QB-needy teams to draft for upside near the top.