NFL mock draft reveals Mendoza and Moore as consensus top-2 QBs

Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore dominate the latest 2026 NFL mock draft as consensus top-two picks. The Las Vegas Raiders are locked in on Indiana’s Heisman winner, while the Jets project to secure the Oregon QB at pick two. This is the deepest quarterback class in years.

Mendoza’s Heisman Pedigree Seals QB1 Status

Fernando Mendoza’s 2025 season was nothing short of spectacular. The Indiana Hoosiers transfer led all FBS quarterbacks with 41 touchdown passes, demonstrating elite arm talent and field awareness. His 133.2 NFL passer rating stands alone atop college football, yet scouts say his greatest weapon isn’t his arm.

Mendoza’s ball placement is fantastic, and his pre-snap recognition separates him from peers. He cut sacks dramatically from 41 in 2024 to just 22 this season by getting the ball out quicker. While not a dual-threat runner, he shows enough mobility as a scrambler to extend plays. Las Vegas sees a franchise QB ready to elevate their offense immediately.

Moore’s Arm Talent and Youth Create Intrigue

Dante Moore brings a different profile to the QB1 debate. The Oregon Ducks sophomore has only 20 career starts, yet his accuracy, touch, and arm angles have scouts drooling. His 90.3 PFF passing grade ranks fifth nationally, while his 30 big-time throws tie for the most in the nation.

Moore’s ability to deliver strikes while rolling left or right shows rare improvisation skills. He plays with command of the Ducks offense and shows genuine touch on deep balls. At just 20 years old draft time, his ceiling may sit higher than Mendoza’s, though his developmental timeline requires patience.

Mock Draft Rankings Show Consensus Build

Source	QB1	QB2
Mel Kiper (ESPN)	Fernando Mendoza, Indiana	Dante Moore, Oregon
PFF Mock Draft	Fernando Mendoza, Indiana	Dante Moore, Oregon
CBS Sports	Fernando Mendoza, Indiana	Dante Moore, Oregon
Consensus Big Board	Fernando Mendoza	Dante Moore

Every major analyst from ESPN to PFF to The Ring projects Mendoza as consensus QB1 heading into April. The Las Vegas Raiders with the top pick are widely expected to select the Heisman winner. Meanwhile, the New York Jets at pick two have signaled they’ll take whichever QB the Raiders don’t, ensuring Moore goes high if he declares.

NFL scouts universally acknowledge both quarterbacks will hear their names called in the first round. The debate centers not on whether they’re top-tier, but rather the order of selection and which landing spot optimizes their NFL trajectory.

“Moore’s upside remains undeniable. He possesses the kind of arm talent and improvisational ability that can redefine a franchise’s ceiling.”

— NFL Scout Analysis, DAZN

Beyond QB1 and QB2: The Rest of the Elite Class

Ty Simpson from Alabama ranks third at the position, with impressive 30 big-time throw production matching Moore. Trinidad Chambliss (Ole Miss) and Drew Allar (Penn State) round out top-five options. This depth makes the 2026 QB class exceptional for teams needing franchise signal-callers.

The Arizona Cardinals at pick three, however, are expected to bypass QBs and select linebacker Arvell Reese instead. This dynamic could force the Pittsburgh Steelers at pick 21 to move up early if they covet Simpson.

How Will the Mendoza Moore Debate Actually Settle?

As predraft evaluations continue through February and March, one question looms: Will Mendoza’s proven production and recognition keep him locked as QB1? Or does Moore’s youth, arm talent, and athletic upside eventually flip the narrative? Scouts remain split, though consensus still favors the Heisman winner at this moment in time.

The answer may hinge on pro days, combine performance, and private workouts. Both possess elite traits. Mendoza offers safety and proven results. Moore offers ceiling and upside. Raiders and Jets will ultimately decide which philosophy wins out. What’s certain: January 14, 2026 marks the moment these two quarterbacks locked in as consensus top-2 talents in a truly exceptional class.

Sources

• ESPN – Mel Kiper’s 2026 NFL Draft Big Board rankings and top qb prospects
• PFF – 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Fernando Mendoza goes No. 1 overall projections
• CBS Sports – 2026 NFL Mock Draft predictions with Mendoza and Moore top-2