The ongoing College Football Playoff (CFP) is set to have significant implications for the upcoming NFL Draft, particularly for three quarterbacks—Fernando Mendoza of Indiana, Dante Moore of Oregon, and Ty Simpson of Alabama. All three are vying for first-round selections and are under pressure to deliver standout performances in crucial matchups this week.
For the first time in five years, three quarterbacks are positioned to become first-round picks in the NFL Draft, which illustrates the increasing talent pool. As the playoffs unfold, Mendoza, Moore, and Simpson face the opportunity to enhance their visibility among NFL evaluators. “These are the top three quarterbacks—if you’re in that market, these are the guys,” noted an anonymous team executive, highlighting the high stakes involved.
The trio remains underclassmen and must declare for the draft. They could choose to return to school, similar to Texas’s Arch Manning and South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, both of whom have announced their intentions for the 2027 draft. Mendoza, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, is regarded as the most stable candidate and will see his first postseason action in the Rose Bowl against Simpson and Alabama, who recently upset Oklahoma in the playoffs.
Moore and Oregon, having already secured a victory against James Madison, will face a tougher challenge in the Orange Bowl against Texas Tech. Meanwhile, Miami’s Carson Beck is considered a mid- to late-round candidate who desperately needs to shine against Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl, although he is not projected to reach first-round consideration.
Assessing Mendoza’s Position
Mendoza solidified his standing as a first-round prospect with an impressive performance against Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship Game, marking a high point in his season. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 225 pounds, he will face a less formidable defense in Alabama. A strong showing could pave the way for tougher challenges in later rounds.
“If Mendoza can run with more purpose in the playoffs, he could emerge as the draft’s top quarterback,” said a high-ranking evaluator. Teams are already discussing Mendoza with the expectation that he will enter the 2026 draft. There is speculation about a potential rematch against Ohio State in the national championship, which would allow evaluators to gauge how he adapts to defensive adjustments.
“I want to see him manage the game and make smart decisions,” another executive commented. “Indiana should dominate, although Alabama has talent. Consistency will be key.” Mendoza’s ability to extend plays with his legs adds an extra layer of complexity for opposing defenses.
The Rising Stars of Moore and Simpson
While Mendoza’s draft stock appears secure, the postseason is particularly pivotal for Moore. At just 20 years old, he has demonstrated remarkable potential but has faced inconsistencies throughout the season. His athleticism gives him a ceiling that could entice NFL teams considering him for the top pick.
If Moore performs well against Texas Tech’s formidable defensive line, he could strengthen his case as a first-round prospect. “He has the most physical upside of the three quarterbacks,” a team executive remarked. Yet, some believe it may be more beneficial for him to return to Oregon for another season to further develop his skills.
Conversely, Simpson has produced some of the best film of the three quarterbacks this season. Despite struggling in recent games, he rebounded against Oklahoma. Teams recognize Simpson’s ability to read defenses pre-snap and release the ball quickly, a skill described as his “superpower.”
Simpson is also viewed as a first-round candidate, but faces heightened expectations in the upcoming matchup against Indiana. “He’s the one who needs to play the best,” an evaluator stated, emphasizing the importance of minimizing mistakes.
As the playoffs progress, the stakes are higher than ever for these quarterbacks. Unlike previous years, the current playoff format offers a more extensive evaluation period, giving NFL teams a clearer picture of each player’s capabilities. With several quarterbacks in contention, the competition is fierce, and the outcomes of these games could significantly influence their draft stock.
