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The quarterback conversation entering the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine is straightforward at the top and complicated immediately after. Fernando Mendoza remains the clear QB1 in this class, and his draft positioning is unlikely to change in Indianapolis. The real question begins with Ty Simpson. If Simpson is the projected QB2 entering the week, can he do enough to firmly plant himself in the Day One conversation? And after Mendoza and Simpson, who separates as QB3? Indianapolis provides a neutral environment — identical throws, identical interview structure, identical scrutiny. In a class defined by thin margins, the Combine could shape the order behind the top two. Ty Simpson, Alabama (Projected QB2) Analysis: Assuming Simpson enters Indianapolis as QB2, this is his opportunity to solidify first-round momentum rather than simply protect his current standing. His tape flashes timing, anticipation, and middle-of-the-field confidence, particularly when operating from structure. The concern lies in his limited starting experience, late-season inconsistency, and durability questions tied to his frame. The Combine is critical for Simpson. Clean mechanics during scripted throws, verified size, and strong interviews could push him toward the top of Round Two — with an outside shot at sneaking into late Round One conversations. A flat showing, however, tightens the margin between him and the rest of this tier. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU (Projected QB3) Analysis: Nussmeier’s draft arc has been volatile. A year ago, he was discussed as a potential QB1 candidate. Now, he enters Indianapolis fighting to stabilize his evaluation. Over a two-year sample, the tape shows NFL-caliber arm strength and flashes of high-level processing, but it also reveals turnover volatility and risk-heavy decision-making. The Combine represents a perception reset. If he throws with rhythm, demonstrates improved command, and handles interviews with composure, he could climb back into the Day Two conversation. Without that clarity, teams may view him as a developmental mid-round investment. Carson Beck, Miami NFL Draft Projection:  4th–5th Round Analysis: Beck remains one of the more complex evaluations in this group. When protected and operating within rhythm, he flashes strong accuracy and the ability to diagnose coverage structures. Under pressure, however, his performance can become streaky and negative plays snowball. The Combine should highlight his strengths — clean platform mechanics and natural arm talent in controlled throwing sessions. While his current projection sits in the late-round range, a sharp and confident performance in Indianapolis could help him reenter the broader Day Two discussion internally for some quarterback-needy teams. Cole Payton, North Dakota State NFL Draft Projection:  4th–6th Round Analysis: Payton is the traits-based wild card. The former FCS standout brings dual-threat ability, high-end arm elasticity, and impressive off-platform ball placement. His throwing motion is unconventional, but the ball jumps off his hand with velocity and life. The primary concern remains experience — only one season as a starter and limited exposure against Power Five competition. Indianapolis provides a critical apples-to-apples comparison against top-tier quarterbacks. If he looks natural, decisive, and consistent in drills, his stock could rise quickly. If inconsistencies show, teams may view him as a developmental late-round swing. Drew Allar, Penn State NFL Draft Projection:  4th–6th Round Analysis: Allar’s trajectory mirrors elements of both Nussmeier and Beck. Once viewed as a potential first-round quarterback, a disappointing 2025 campaign cooled that momentum. He possesses NFL-level arm strength and prototypical size, but his tendency to predetermine throws and lock onto primary reads has raised concerns about processing and adaptability. The Combine setting should showcase his pure arm talent. Whether it does enough to shift the broader evaluation remains the question. Cade Klubnik, Clemson NFL Draft Projection:  5th–7th Round Analysis: Klubnik enters Indianapolis as a classic tools-based projection. His arm strength and rushing ability are intriguing, and those traits should translate well during throwing sessions at Lucas Oil Stadium. However, inconsistent footwork and pocket presence remain areas that require development. The Combine will not erase structural concerns, but it can reinforce why his physical profile remains appealing to teams seeking a developmental quarterback with upside. Luke Altmyer, Illinois NFL Draft Projection:  5th–7th Round Analysis: Altmyer profiles as a developmental option with functional arm strength and a quick release. While it is difficult to project him into the top-75 mix, Indianapolis offers an opportunity to showcase velocity and mechanical efficiency in a structured setting. A clean and controlled week could solidify his status as an early Day Three selection for teams seeking quarterback depth with developmental upside.

The NFL Scouting Combine—formally known as the National Invitational Camp (NIC)—is the league’s premier pre-draft evaluation event and one of the most important checkpoints in the player development and scouting process. Held annually in Indianapolis, the Combine is a four-day, invitation-only event that brings together approximately 300 of the top draft-eligible college football players for standardized medical, mental, and physical evaluations. From an NFL scouting perspective, the Combine is not designed to discover  players—it exists to verify and contextualize what teams have already seen on film. Every drill, measurement, interview, and medical exam is used to reduce uncertainty and risk as clubs finalize draft boards. What the NFL Scouting Combine Evaluates The NFL Scouting Combine evaluates prospects across four primary pillars: Medical Evaluation Medical information is the single most important component of the Combine. Each invited prospect undergoes a comprehensive medical examination, including orthopedic evaluations, imaging (X-rays and MRIs), injury history reviews, and specialist consultations when necessary. All results are compiled into electronic medical records and shared with all 32 NFL teams, ensuring equal access to verified medical data. Interviews & Psychological Testing Teams are permitted to conduct up to 60 formal interviews with prospects, each lasting 15 minutes. These sessions allow clubs to assess football intelligence, personality, leadership traits, recall, and overall fit within their organizational culture. Psychological testing is also administered as part of the broader evaluation process. Physical Measurements & Athletic Testing Height, weight, arm length, hand size, and body composition are officially recorded, followed by position-specific athletic testing. While results are widely discussed publicly, teams use these metrics primarily to confirm thresholds, movement efficiency, and functional athleticism relative to position norms—not to override film evaluation. On-Field Workouts Prospects participate in drills designed to showcase position-specific skills, movement patterns, and body control. These sessions help evaluators assess traits such as explosiveness, change of direction, flexibility, balance, and coordination in a controlled environment. How the Combine Fits Into the Draft Process The Combine serves as a centralized, standardized evaluation hub. Rather than prospects traveling from team to team for physicals and interviews, all testing is conducted in one location under league oversight. This structure allows NFL clubs to compare prospects using consistent data points while minimizing logistical inefficiencies and medical redundancy. Importantly, participation is invitation-based. A committee of NFL evaluators determines which prospects attend, and the league reserves the right to deny participation based on medical, legal, or conduct-related findings. Teams, however, are free to independently evaluate any draft-eligible player outside the Combine framework. Why the Combine Matters For NFL teams, the Combine is about risk management and decision-making. Medical clarity, character evaluation, and athletic verification play a significant role in determining draft value, contract guarantees, and long-term investment. For prospects, it represents the most comprehensive job interview of their football careers—an opportunity to confirm their draft standing or, in some cases, elevate it. While the public focus often centers on 40-yard dash times and highlight clips, the true value of the NFL Scouting Combine lies behind closed doors, where film, data, medicals, and interviews are brought together to shape draft boards across the league.

The 2026 NFL Draft class may be light at the most important position in football — quarterback — but what it lacks there, it makes up for in trench depth and defensive firepower. The offensive and defensive line groups are strong, and the linebacker class might be one of the deepest and most talented we’ve evaluated in years. Offensively, the quarterback story starts and ends with Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, who is widely projected to go No. 1 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. After him, things get interesting. Alabama’s Ty Simpson sits as QB2, but there’s real buzz that Mendoza could be the only quarterback selected on Day 1. That could push Simpson — along with Garrett Nussmeier and Carson Beck — into the Day 2 conversation. At wide receiver, there may not be a generational prospect, but the depth is real. Ohio State’s Carnell Tate, USC’s Makai Lemon, and Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson each have legitimate WR1 cases depending on preference and scheme. The class is rich in WR2 and WR3 types built to complement established NFL No. 1 targets. Up front, the offensive line lacks a clear blue-chip left tackle, but versatility defines this group. Spencer Fano leads the way, followed by Francis Mauigoa, with interior standout Vega Ioane carrying potential top-10 upside at his position. Across Days 1–3, flexibility and multi-position value will drive this board. At running back, the class is top-heavy with Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love carrying legitimate generational buzz. Behind him is solid depth, but the true high-end value sits at the top. Defensively, this is where the class separates itself. Caleb Downs, Arvell Reese, and Rueben Bain Jr. headline a group loaded with impact players. The real theme of this draft? Non-premium defensive positions could dominate early selections — and teams focused on front-seven playmakers will find value quickly. 2026 NFL Draft Positional Rankings and Player Grades Below, you’ll find direct links to our full 2026 NFL Draft position rankings. Each position group includes detailed player rankings, Football Scout 365 grades, in-depth scouting analysis, and projected draft ranges to provide a complete evaluation of the class. Quarterback The 2026 NFL Draft quarterback rankings are the defining storyline of this cycle. Beyond Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, many evaluators are already turning their attention to 2027. The depth is limited, and there isn’t a surplus of plug-and-play Day 1 starters — but there is legitimate developmental upside embedded within this group. Running Back Jeremiyah Love headlines a top-heavy running back group with true three-down, game-changing ability, while Jadarian Price brings vision and tempo that translate cleanly to today’s lighter defensive fronts. The depth isn’t overwhelming, but the top-end talent is legitimate. Wide Receiver Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson, and Makai Lemon pace a receiver class built on separation craft and alignment flexibility. This group reflects the modern NFL — polished route runners who win with tempo, leverage, and run-after-catch production rather than pure measurables. Tight End Kenyon Sadiq sets the ceiling with explosive mismatch potential, and Eli Stowers adds move-piece versatility in space. Behind them is a balanced mix of in-line stability and flex value that should produce multiple Day 2 contributors. Offensive Line Spencer Fano and Francis Mauigoa anchor a trench-driven class featuring starting-caliber tackles and powerful interior options. It’s a sturdy, scheme-versatile group with early impact potential. EDGE Rankings Rueben Bain Jr. and David Bailey headline one of the strongest position groups in the class. Production, pass-rush depth, and alignment flexibility define a wave of defenders capable of impacting quarterbacks early. Interior Defensive Line Peter Woods and Kayden McDonald bring anchor strength and disruptive interior traits to a powerful IDL group. It’s a run-stopping core with enough pocket push to translate on passing downs. Linebacker Arvell Reese’s hybrid upside sets the tone, with Sonny Styles close behind as a range-and-versatility defender built for sub-package football. This is a modern, three-down linebacker group. Cornerback Jermod McCoy and Mansoor Delane lead a competitive coverage class built on instincts, press traits, and schematic flexibility. Multiple starters should emerge from this group. Safety Caleb Downs headlines the safety class as a true defensive chess piece. Around him is a versatile collection of safeties capable of playing deep, rotating late, or matching in space.

The Football Scout 365 NFL Draft Big Board elevates player rankings with an innovative approach. We offer individual film-based player grades, tailored assessments of scheme fit, comprehensive player comparisons, and more to provide you with a thorough understanding of each prospect's potential. Top of Page NFL DRAFT BIG BOARD YEAR OFF/DEF POS 2026 1 S Caleb Downs Ohio State PROFILE 2 QB Fernando Mendoza Indiana PROFILE 3 ED Rueben Bain Miami PROFILE 4 ED David Bailey Texas Tech PROFILE 5 LB Arvell Reese Ohio State PROFILE 6 RB Jeremiyah Love Notre Dame PROFILE 7 WR Carnell Tate Ohio State PROFILE 8 WR Jordyn Tyson Arizona State PROFILE 9 LB Sonny Styles Ohio State PROFILE 10 OT Spencer Fano Utah PROFILE 11 CB Mansoor Delane LSU PROFILE 12 WR Makai Lemon USC PROFILE 13 OT Francis Mauigoa Miami PROFILE 14 IDL Peter Woods Clemson PROFILE 15 IDL Kayden McDonald Ohio State PROFILE 16 CB Jermod McCoy Tennessee PROFILE 17 ED Akheem Mesidor Miami PROFILE 18 CB Colton Hood Tennessee PROFILE 19 IDL Caleb Banks Florida PROFILE 20 TE Kenyon Sadiq Oregon PROFILE 21 ED Derrick Moore Michigan PROFILE 22 QB Ty Simpson Alabama PROFILE 23 ED Keldric Faulk Auburn PROFILE 24 CB Avieon Terrell Clemson PROFILE 25 IOL Olaivavega Ioane Penn State PROFILE First Prev Page 1 Next Last

Football Scout 365 provides NFL Draft analysis, player rankings, player grades, advanced stats, fantasy football analysis, and more. 2026 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 50 Prospects and Positional Rankings (Pre–Senior Bowl) With the all-star circuit underway and the Senior Bowl approaching, the 2026 NFL Draft landscape is beginning to sharpen. This updated Top 50 Big Board reflects a full season of film study, early postseason evaluations, and a reshuffling at the very top — highlighted by Fernando Mendoza’s rise into the No. 2 overall slot and a loaded defensive class led by Caleb Downs, Rueben Bain Jr., and Arvell Reese. 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Senior Bowl Edition An updated 2026 NFL Mock Draft during Senior Bowl week, breaking down top prospects, team fits, and rising talent. Featuring Fernando Mendoza, Ty Simpson, Caleb Downs, Carnell Tate, and more as the pre-draft process accelerates toward April. 1 S Caleb Downs Ohio State VIEW PROFILE 3 ED Rueben Bain Miami VIEW PROFILE 5 LB Arvell Reese Ohio State VIEW PROFILE 7 WR Carnell Tate Ohio State VIEW PROFILE 9 LB Sonny Styles Ohio State VIEW PROFILE 2 QB Fernando Mendoza Indiana VIEW PROFILE 4 ED David Bailey Texas Tech VIEW PROFILE 6 RB Jeremiyah Love Notre Dame VIEW PROFILE 8 WR Jordyn Tyson Arizona State VIEW PROFILE 10 OT Spencer Fano Utah VIEW PROFILE TOP 10 NFL DRAFT PROSPECTS VIEW ALL RANKINGS Rueben Bain Jr. & David Bailey Lead 2026 NFL Draft EDGE Rankings #shorts #foryou Play Video Peter Woods & Kayden McDonald Lead 2026 NFL Draft IDL Rankings #shorts #foryou Play Video Arvell Reese & Sonny Styles Headline 2026 NFL Draft LB Class #shorts #foryou Play Video Jermod McCoy & Mansoor Delane Lead 2026 NFL Draft CB Rankings #shorts #foryou Play Video Play Video Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Close FEATURED CONTENT 2026 NFL Draft Offensive Line Rankings: Spencer Fano, Francis Mauigoa Headline Deep Class Brandon Lundberg 21 hours ago 2026 NFL Draft Edge Rusher Rankings: Rueben Bain Jr. & David Bailey Headline a Loaded Pass-Rush Class Brandon Lundberg 22 hours ago 2026 NFL Draft Interior Defensive Line Rankings: Peter Woods, Kayden McDonald Lead a Strong Class Brandon Lundberg 1 day ago 2026 NFL Draft Linebacker Rankings: Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles Lead A Scheme Versatile Group Brandon Lundberg 2 days ago 2026 NFL Draft Cornerback Rankings: Jermod McCoy, Mansoor Delane Lead a Scheme-Versatile Class Brandon Lundberg 3 days ago 2026 NFL Draft Safety Rankings: Caleb Downs, Dillon Thieneman Lead a Versatile Class Brandon Lundberg 4 days ago 2026 Senior Bowl Practice Report: Standouts & NFL Draft Risers Brandon Lundberg Jan 29 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Senior Bowl Edition Brandon Lundberg Jan 27 VIEW ALL ANALYSIS

< Back David Bailey Texas Tech HT: 6030 WT: 250 YR: SR POS: ED OVR RK 4 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL Near Elite OVR RK PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT David Bailey is coming off a true breakout 2025 season at Texas Tech and is now widely projected as a top-10 pick after proving he can be a weekly game-wrecker against high-level competition. At 6’3”, ~250, Bailey wins with first-step burst, bend, and a deep pass-rush bag, and the production matches the traits—he posted 14.5 sacks in 2025 and consistently finished pressures with real closing speed. His PFF profile reflects that impact as well, with Bailey grading out at the top of the college EDGE group as a pass rusher. The evaluation hinges on whether he can keep building play strength and run-game anchor, but in a 3-4 OLB / hybrid EDGE role, he projects as an immediate third-down difference-maker with legitimate Round 1 ceiling. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS Near Elite (70-74) A high-caliber prospect who is expected to become a significant contributor by Year 2. These players have outstanding physical tools and strong football IQ, with only minor flaws in their game. They demonstrate consistency at a high level and project as future Pro Bowl-caliber players if properly developed. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS Explosive First Step Deep pass-rush toolbox Movement skills + versatility KEY WEAKNESSES Run defense anchor Pass-Rush Repertoire Play weight concerns PLAYER COMPARISONS Haason Reddick Josh Uche Brian Burns Rueben Bain Jr. & David Bailey Lead 2026 NFL Draft EDGE Rankings #shorts #foryou Play Video Peter Woods & Kayden McDonald Lead 2026 NFL Draft IDL Rankings #shorts #foryou Play Video Arvell Reese & Sonny Styles Headline 2026 NFL Draft LB Class #shorts #foryou Play Video Jermod McCoy & Mansoor Delane Lead 2026 NFL Draft CB Rankings #shorts #foryou Play Video Play Video Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Close