The Unpredictability of the 2025 College Football Quarterback Landscape

As the 2025 college football season unfolds, the landscape of draft-eligible quarterbacks is experiencing a whirlwind of volatility and unpredictability. With scouts and executives keeping a close eye on emerging talents, a recent ESPN poll of 25 NFL scouts and executives has revealed significant shifts in sentiment regarding the top quarterback prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft. This fluid situation highlights the dynamic nature of college football and the ever-changing evaluations of young quarterbacks.

Poll Highlights: Mendoza on Top

In the most recent poll, Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza emerged as the frontrunner, gathering 13 votes from the scouts—a stark difference from his previous standing. Just a few weeks prior, Mendoza was virtually off the radar, with no votes in the initial polling. Close behind him are Oregon’s Dante Moore with 6 votes and Alabama’s Ty Simpson, who garnered 3 votes. The meteoric rise of Mendoza underscores how quickly opinions can shift, particularly in a season marked by dramatic performances and unexpected developments.

Rising Stars with Room for Growth

While Mendoza currently holds the top spot, he is not without his challenges. Many scouts still hesitate to label him as a clear No. 1 overall pick, despite his promising trajectory. After transferring from Cal, Mendoza has found new life under Indiana’s head coach Curt Cignetti, showing impressive statistical improvements. His completion percentage has soared to 72.3%, and with 25 touchdowns, he is starting to make a name for himself as a viable NFL prospect.

The Changing Landscape of Quarterback Rankings

The shift in the quarterback landscape is underscored by the change in total poll participants. Early in the season, seven different quarterbacks received votes, with South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers leading. Sellers, however, has faced setbacks in performance alongside LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier. The injury to Penn State’s Drew Allar and the inconsistent showing of Arch Manning have further complicated matters, leading scouts to reassess their earlier expectations.

A Detailed Look at Mendoza’s Game

Mendoza’s rise is built not just on statistics but on the intangible qualities that scouts covet. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing in at 225 pounds, he embodies the physical attributes desired in an NFL quarterback. His idolization of Tom Brady provides a template for his development, one that resonates with scouts looking for a “wow” factor in prospects. One scout noted his ability to make anticipatory throws and his toughness in the pocket, highlighting a memorable play where Mendoza delivered a pinpoint pass amid pressure from Iowa defenders. These traits are pivotal for his continued ascent in the draft rankings.

The Emergence of Dante Moore

Dante Moore’s journey is another story of sudden success. After starting just eight games last season, the redshirt sophomore has exploded onto the scene with an impressive collection of stats, including 19 touchdowns and a completion percentage of 71.4%. His size at 6-3 and 206 pounds, coupled with his timely performance, draws attention and raises questions about his long-term viability in the NFL. Scouts are keen to see if he can maintain this momentum heading into the later stages of the season.

Ty Simpson’s Speculative Future

For Ty Simpson, the conversation revolves around potential rather than established performance. Despite his 20-touchdown campaign and only one interception so far, many speculate whether he may choose to return to college football. This uncertainty stems from his minimal starting experience, which could undermine his prospects in the professional league. However, Simpson’s impressive stats signal that he possesses the talent to make an impact, should he decide to declare for the draft.

The Surprise Factor: Brendan Sorsby

By contrast, Brendan Sorsby’s name emerging in draft discussions is a surprising twist. While he faced challenges against top-tier teams such as Nebraska and Utah, Sorsby has demonstrated significant growth. Scouts are drawn to his combination of size, intelligence, and athleticism. Comments from scouts reflect an appreciation for his ability to make difficult throws and manage games effectively, showcasing the kind of versatility that appeals to NFL teams.

Final Thoughts on the Quarterback Class

As the 2026 NFL Draft looms, the perceptions surrounding this quarterback class are continually evolving. Although the top prospects like Mendoza, Moore, and Simpson offer excitement, there remains a tangible sense of uncertainty. The polls indicate differing opinions, and as the season continues, performances on the field will undoubtedly bolster or diminish their standings in the eyes of scouts and executives alike. As teams prepare for the future, the unpredictability intrinsic to college football will shape the narrative of this quarterback class for years to come.