Cracking the QB3 Code: Who's Next After Mendoza and Simpson?

Draft Day Drama: The Race for QB3

Alright, let's be honest with ourselves, readers. No matter how much of a contrarian I try to be, the Las Vegas Raiders are all but set on selecting Indiana's Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft this Thursday. It's the kind of certainty that could put a smile on any football fan's face.

Mendoza is practically picturing himself in a Raiders uniform—silver and black shimmering in the spotlight, helmet firmly in place, ready for the bright lights and high expectations. And let's not forget Alabama's Ty Simpson, who is almost assured to follow as the runner-up, even if the first round doesn't have his name written in stone. Analysts are labeling him a late first-rounder or early second-round choice, and it's hard to argue against this consensus.

But What About QB3?

Now, let's dive deeper and ask the big question—who's the third-best quarterback in this draft class? There are a few names circulating, but the spotlight is shining brightly on four leading contenders for that coveted QB3 spot on day two of the draft.

“In the game of football, quarterback is the most crucial position. If you don't have a top-tier quarterback, you're setting yourself up for an uphill battle.”

Catching Up on the Contenders

• Carson Beck (Georgia)

First up is Carson Beck. He faced off against Mendoza in the College Football Playoff national title game, and a couple of years ago, he was even in the mix for a potential No. 1 selection like Mendoza. But alas, as the clock ticks down to draft day, Beck's consistency—and perhaps a lack of explosive plays—has pushed him out of first-round contention.

• Garrett Nussmeier (LSU)
• Drew Allar (Penn State)

Next on the list are LSU's Garrett Nussmeier and Penn State's Drew Allar. These two were projected top-five picks a year ago, but injuries and inconsistent performances have left them on the sidelines of first-round conversations.

• Cole Payton (North Dakota State)

And then we have the intriguing North Dakota State quarterback, Cole Payton. He's not as polished as the other three contenders, but in terms of sheer athleticism and upside, he arguably boasts the highest ceiling among this group, potentially rivaling even Mendoza and Simpson. Payton's raw skill could lure teams looking for a long-term project to develop into a franchise quarterback.

So, can any of these quarterbacks break into the first round? It's a question that will keep both scouts and fans alike on their toes this week. The draft is less than a day away, and the tension is palpable. Can't wait to find out?

Looking Ahead

With the changing landscape of the NFL, teams must thoroughly evaluate their choices. Whether it's opting for immediate starters or developing prospects, the decisions made this draft could have lasting ramifications for the franchises involved. As every team weighs their options, the QB3 contenders represent an intriguing mix of potential, showcasing both heart and tactics—just how we love it in sports journalism.