The draft cycle is shifting into overdrive. With Arch Manning and Nico Iamaleava reportedly staying in school to chase a 2026 National Title, the “underclassman” market has been turned upside down. GMs are no longer looking for the most famous name; they are looking for the most refined tape.
From the “Indiana Connection” to the return of the bell-cow running back, here is your offensive scouting preview for the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Quarterbacks: The “Naptown” General
With the elite 2026 sophomores staying in college, the QB class is led by a man who just spent the last four months silencing every critic in the Big Ten.
1. Fernando Mendoza (Indiana)
-
The Comp: Matt Ryan / Jared Goff
-
The Skinny: Mendoza is the undisputed QB1 of this class. At 6’5”, he has the prototypical frame NFL scouts drool over. He isn’t a “scrambler,” but his pocket navigation is elite. He’s surgical in the RPO game and, according to Daniel Jeremiah, possesses the “fastest eyes” in college football.
-
Draft Floor: Top 5.
2. Garrett Nussmeier (LSU)
-
The Comp: Matthew Stafford (Light)
-
The Skinny: “Nuss” is the risk-taker. He will make a throw that leaves your jaw on the floor, followed by one that makes you want to throw your remote. However, his arm talent is undeniable. If a team like the Raiders or Giants wants a vertical threat, he’s the pick.
The Playmakers: Speed vs. Substance
This wide receiver class is a “pick your poison” buffet. Do you want a guy who breaks ankles in the screen game or a guy who wins at the catch point?
The Lightning: Zachariah Branch (Georgia)
-
Scouting Report: After transferring from USC to UGA, Branch became a touchdown machine. He’s the premier returner in this draft, but NFL teams are looking at him as a “Deebo Samuel” hybrid. He’s only 5’10”, but he’s the most dangerous human being in open space.
The Technician: Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State)
-
Scouting Report: If you want a “true” X-receiver, Tyson is your guy. His route running is already at a pro level. He doesn’t just run routes; he sets traps. He’s the consensus WR1 for teams looking for a high-volume target.
The YAC King: Omar Cooper Jr. (Indiana)
-
Scouting Report: The “other” Hoosier. Cooper Jr. has the build of a running back but the hands of a slot specialist. He led the nation in yards after catch. He’s a “bully” receiver who will be a PPR monster in the NFL.
The Trenches: The “Jumbo” Class
This is a historic year for Offensive Tackles. If your team needs a blindside protector, this is the year to have a first-round pick.
| Prospect | School | Height/Weight | Scout’s Take |
| Francis Mauigoa | Miami | 6’6”, 330 lbs | The most “pro-ready.” Elite footwork and a nastiness in the run game. |
| Kadyn Proctor | Alabama | 6’7”, 365 lbs | A literal mountain. Some scouts worry about his lateral speed against NFL edge rushers, but you cannot move him once he sets his feet. |
| Spencer Fano | Utah | 6’5”, 300 lbs | The “Athletic” Tackle. Perfect for a wide-zone scheme (think 49ers or Dolphins). |
The Renaissance: The Return of the RB1
For the first time in years, we might see a running back go in the Top 15.
Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame)
Love is the crown jewel of the offensive class. He isn’t just a runner; he’s an offensive weapon. He runs a 4.3, catches the ball like a receiver, and pass-protects better than most veteran pros. In an NFL that is moving back toward “versatile backfields,” Love is the perfect modern engine.
The “Bold” Prediction
The Miami Dolphins will sell the farm to move up for Francis Mauigoa. Pairing the hometown hero with Mike McDaniel’s scheme is too perfect of a fit. Mauigoa is the exact type of “dancing elephant” that makes that outside-zone offense unstoppable.
