2026 NFL Draft: Top Prospects and Predictions for the No. 1 Pick

Explore the top contenders for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, including quarterbacks and edge rushers, with detailed analysis and predictions.

Serious Contenders

LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 15%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Sellers combines a powerful arm with impressive mobility, making him a dual-threat quarterback. His 2,534 passing yards and 18 touchdowns as a redshirt freshman highlight his potential. However, he needs to improve his ball security and reduce his time in the pocket.

Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 15%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Klubnik made a significant leap in his junior year, throwing for 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns. His quick progression through reads and strong mechanics make him a top contender. However, there are concerns about his arm strength.

Drew Allar, QB, Penn State

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 15%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Allar improved his completion percentage to 66.5% under new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki. His size and arm strength are assets, but he needs to work on ball placement and perform better in big games.

Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 15%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Nussmeier threw for 4,052 yards and 29 touchdowns last season. His pocket vision and anticipation are strengths, but his aggressiveness can lead to interceptions.

Potential Risers

Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 12%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Mendoza transferred to Indiana, where he could thrive in a quarterback-friendly offense. His strong arm and accuracy make him a potential riser.

T.J. Parker, Edge, Clemson

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 10%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Parker is a dominant edge rusher with 11 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss last season. His ability to force turnovers makes him a top non-quarterback prospect.

Arch Manning, QB, Texas

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 5%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Manning has shown promise in limited action, with 939 passing yards and nine touchdowns. His dual-threat capability and frame are attractive, but he needs more experience.

Long Shots

John Mateer, QB, Oklahoma

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 2%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Mateer is a competitive and confident passer with mobility. His performance against a tough schedule could boost his stock.

Sam Leavitt, QB, Arizona State

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 2%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Leavitt played a key role in Arizona State's turnaround, passing for 2,885 yards and 24 touchdowns. He could rise with a strong season.

Peter Woods, DT, Clemson

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 1%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Woods is a disruptive force on Clemson's defense. His ability to convert pass rushes into sacks could make him a top pick.

Spencer Fano, OT, Utah

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 1%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Fano is a consistent blocker with quickness and power. His versatility and intensity make him a top offensive tackle prospect.

Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 1%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Proctor has the size and power to be a top pick, but needs to improve his pass protection consistency.

Isaiah World, OT, Oregon

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 1%
  • Why he could be the top pick: World has outstanding traits but needs to reduce penalties and handle increased competition.

Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

  • Predicted chance of going No. 1: 1%
  • Why he could be the top pick: Downs excels in coverage and tackling, making him a standout safety prospect.

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