2026 NFL Draft: Rankings, Best Team Fits for Top 12 Quarterbacks

Of the top 150 NFL prospects on my final Big Board, you’ll see only eight quarterbacks included, with just three among the first 100. If the draft falls that way, it will be the first since 2000 in which there weren’t at least four QBs among the first 100 players selected. 

Most years, the first round is the round to watch for quarterbacks. And this year is no exception, as where (and when) Ty Simpson is selected will generate huge ripple effects in this draft. But I expect the biggest run on QBs to transpire in the fourth round.  

We’ve documented the ups and downs of this year’s class since the beginning and end of the season. Now, with the draft finally upon us, I have grades on the top 12 draftable quarterbacks. 

Here is how I rank them and why. 

Projected round: 7/UDFA
Pro comp: Jaren Hall
Best team fits: San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys

With an NCAA-record 58 career wins, including two national championships at South Dakota State prior to finishing his collegiate career at Iowa, Gronowski certainly is a winner. And he possesses NFL size, athleticism and toughness, as well. Despite what his career 103-27 touchdown to interception rate and 63% competition percentage suggest, however, Gronowski lacks ideal accuracy. He has the dual-threat ability and intangibles to stick as a backup and developmental project, warranting late-round consideration.  

Joe Fagnano of UConn participates in a drill during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Projected round: 6-7
Pro comp: Bailey Zappe
Best team fits: New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans, New Orleans Saints

A traditional pocket passer with good anticipation, zip