The Read Optional
The Read Optional NFL Podcast
2026 NFL Draft Tiers & Evaluations: Quarterbacks
Preview
0:00
-30:08

2026 NFL Draft Tiers & Evaluations: Quarterbacks

Breaking down Fernando Mendoza, Ty Simpson and how this quarterback class projects to the next level

Jon and I finally wade into the most controversial — yawn — conversation of draft season. That’s right: we’re talking Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson in the latest episode of our scouting series. We discuss what it takes to play QB in 2026, what we look for when evaluating prospects, the uniqueness of evaluating quarterbacks, the strengths, weaknesses, scheme fits and our grades for the top prospects — and what the development arc will be for Mendoza and Simpson.

2026 NFL Draft Headquarters: Scouting Reports, Position Rankings, Big Boards

2026 NFL Draft Headquarters: Scouting Reports, Position Rankings, Big Boards

This is the central hub for all of my 2026 NFL Draft work, updated regularly to provide convenient access to read scouting reports, boards and the supporting podcasts with Jon Ledyard. At the end of the process, I’ll post boards as stand-alone pieces. If you want full breakdowns of the top players (the strengths, weaknesses, and, most importantly, schematic fits) or to go scouring for late-round gems, this is the place to be.

Listen to this episode with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to The Read Optional to listen to this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.