(Projected Day 2 or Beyond)
Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
Carson Beck, Miami
Cade Klubnik, Clemson
Drew Allar, Penn State
Notable Draft-Eligible QBs Who Could Return for 2026
Ty Simpson, Alabama
Simpson turns 23 in December and has had an outstanding 2025 season for the Crimson Tide. He seems the most likely of the top QB prospects with 2026 NCAA eligibility to leave for the NFL.
Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Mendoza showed exceptional poise in rallying Indiana to victory at Penn State in a late fourth-quarter drive for the ages this past weekend. There has been widespread speculation on whether Mendoza will turn pro after the season; it could end up that the better business decision for him will be to stay with IU.
Dante Moore, Oregon
Moore has two years of NCAA eligibility remaining after this season. After redshirting in 2024, Moore has had a tremendous 2025 season for the Ducks. You'll know we've hit the tipping point if Mendoza and Moore return to college for 2026, though Moore would clearly stand to benefit from another year at Oregon.
LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina
Sellers would seem to be a good fit for the University of Miami's Cam Ward Finishing School for Exceptional QB Prospects. The risk for any round one non-lock is sliding and then ending up slotted with a low salary for four years.
Arch Manning, Texas
It would be stunning if Manning left Austin after this season. This setup has been in place for some time, it's Manning's family gimmick to spend four years at one university, and he would benefit from another year of college play before heading to the NFL.
John Mateer, Oklahoma
Props to Mateer for trying to will himself into action after undergoing thumb surgery, but his hand injury has clearly impacted his game. It will be interesting to see if Oklahoma is able to retain offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle and whether that impacts Mateer's decision for 2026.
