What quarterbacks are invited to the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine? Full list of QB prospects
Fernando Mendoza and several other quarterbacks will be at the NFL Combine this week, with many looking to prove themselves to scouts.
The NFL Combine begins tonight with several hopefuls looking to prove themselves ahead of the draft in April. The No. 1 prospect is already a lock - Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who will be in attendance, but isn’t set to participate in drills.
The quarterbacks will work out this Saturday, February 28 and besides Mendoza, there are 15 others who were invited to the Combine. Here’s a look at who we can expect to see this weekend.
Quarterbacks invited to the 2026 NFL Combine
- Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
- Ty Simpson, Alabama
- Carson Beck, Miami
- Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
- Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt
- Cade Klubnik, Clemson
- Cole Payton, North Dakota State
- Drew Allar, Penn State
- Taylen Green, Arkansas
- Luke Altmyer, Illinois
- Joe Fagnano, UConn
- Haynes King, Georgia Tech
- Sawyer Robertson, Baylor
- Joey Aguilar, Tennessee
- Jalon Daniels, Kansas
- Behren Morton, Texas Tech
The most intriguing names to watch
Beyond Mendoza, there isn’t a clear hierarchy after QB1, and that makes Saturday’s workouts critical. Without much depth at the position this year, a strong Combine performance could be the difference between going in the first round and sliding into Day 3. Here are some of the more intriguing quarterbacks to keep an eye on at the Combine.
Ty Simpson, Alabama
With Mendoza sitting out drills, Simpson may have the most to gain Saturday. The Alabama product is widely viewed as the only quarterback in this class with a realistic shot at sneaking into the top five outside of Mendoza. He has prototypical size, clean mechanics and enough arm talent to intrigue teams desperate for a starter.
His weakness has nothing to do with his physical ability. Instead, it’s experience. Simpson only started one full season. A strong throwing session could solidify him as QB2 in this draft and possibly even push him into the No. 2 overall conversation.
Carson Beck, Miami
Beck might be the safest bet in the class. At 6′4″ with six years of college experience, he’s seen just about everything. His production at Miami was strong, and evaluators love his readiness.
He may not have elite traits, but in this draft short on quarterback options, Beck’s polish could make him a fast riser, especially if he throws with confidence and rhythm in Indianapolis.
Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
If there’s a quarterback who could wow scouts purely on arm talent, it’s Nussmeier. His size isn’t ideal and mobility isn’t a strength, but he can drive the football as well as anyone in this class.
In a throwing-heavy setting like the Combine, that will be significant. If teams fall in love with the velocity and tight-window throws, Nussmeier could elevate himself into firm second-round territory.
Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt
Pavia might be the most fascinating wild card. At just 5′9″, he doesn’t fit the traditional NFL mold, but he’s electric. He’s athletic, instinctive and plays with a fearless edge that shows up on tape.
He’ll have to answer size concerns, but if he tests well and interviews strongly, he could become this year’s “intangibles over measurables” storyline.
Drew Allar, Penn State
Allar is the boom-or-bust projection. At 6′5″ with a big arm, he looks the part of a franchise quarterback. But injuries and limited production leave evaluators wanting more.
If he throws smoothly and shows improved mechanics, he could re-enter the Day 2 conversation. The upside is real. The sample size just isn’t.
Cole Payton, North Dakota State
Payton is one of the most intriguing athletes in the group. He’s a dynamic runner who thrived in a limited passing offense at North Dakota State.
Scouts will be watching closely to see how natural he looks throwing in a pro-style setting. If the arm checks out, his athletic profile could make him a developmental gem.
2026 NFL Scouting Combine: Dates, Times, Information
The NFL Combine began officially earlier this week with player interviews and team meetings, but the real exciting part begins tonight and runs through Sunday, March 1, with prospects running on-field workouts and televised drills. Different position groups will work out on different days.
*All times listed in Eastern
- Thursday, Feb. 26 (3-8 p.m.): Defensive linemen, linebackers
- Friday, Feb. 27 (3-8 p.m.): Defensive backs, tight ends
- Saturday, Feb. 28 (1-8 p.m.): Quarterbacks, wide receivers, running backs
- Sunday, March 1 (1-5 p.m.): Offensive linemen
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