While the 2024 NFL Draft showcased the dominance of quarterback talent with six first-round selections, and 2025 promises another stacked QB class, the 2026 Draft is already taking shape behind the scenes. Though still two seasons away, a crop of emerging and under-the-radar quarterbacks are beginning to catch the eyes of scouts and analysts. Many of these passers haven’t yet started a full season or transferred schools in search of opportunity—but they all share one thing: potential to rise.
Here’s a closer look at 10 quarterback sleepers who could shake up the 2026 NFL Draft conversation:
1. LaNorris Sellers – South Carolina
A big-bodied, dual-threat quarterback at 6-foot-3 and 245 pounds, Sellers has intrigued coaches with his arm strength and athleticism. With Spencer Rattler gone, Sellers steps into the spotlight with an opportunity to prove himself as a top SEC talent.
2. Jackson Arnold – Oklahoma
One of the most highly-touted recruits in recent memory, Arnold now leads the Sooners after the departure of Dillon Gabriel. Despite the program’s move to the SEC, Oklahoma believes Arnold has the tools—arm talent, mobility, and poise—to thrive on the big stage.
3. Aidan Chiles – Michigan State
After backing up DJ Uiagalelei at Oregon State, Chiles followed coach Jonathan Smith to East Lansing. Standing 6-foot-3 with a cannon arm and a knack for improvisation, Chiles could be the catalyst for a much-needed Spartans resurgence.
4. Dante Moore – Oregon
Moore, a former five-star recruit, had an up-and-down freshman year at UCLA. Now at Oregon, he gets a fresh start under Dan Lanning’s fast-paced offense. If he puts it all together, he has first-round tools.
5. Avery Johnson – Kansas State
Johnson already made waves with a 5-touchdown performance in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. Known for his electrifying mobility and natural playmaking, he could elevate Kansas State’s offense into national relevance.
6. Brock Vandagriff – Kentucky
A former Georgia Bulldog, Vandagriff transferred in search of playing time. Kentucky provides him the platform to finally display his arm strength, timing, and leadership—traits that made him a blue-chip recruit.
7. Nicco Marchiol – West Virginia
Marchiol brings a gritty, physical playing style to the Mountaineers. While his mechanics are a work in progress, his upside and toughness make him a compelling long-term prospect if his development stays on track.
8. Ty Simpson – Alabama
Simpson was once the presumed heir to Bryce Young. After Jalen Milroe seized the starting role, Simpson stayed and continued to develop. With elite pedigree and improved decision-making, he could surprise.
9. Taylen Green – Arkansas
A Boise State transfer, Green is 6-foot-6 with blazing speed and surprising touch. Arkansas is betting big on his rare physical tools, and if he can refine his game, scouts will take notice.
10. Zane Flores – Oklahoma State
Flores hasn’t had his breakout yet, but insiders rave about his mental sharpness and quick release. If he earns the starting job and produces, he could be the next Oklahoma State QB to leap into the national spotlight.
Bottom Line
While Caleb Williams and Drake Maye are now NFL rookies and the 2025 class is filled with household names, the 2026 QB race remains wide open. These ten sleepers each bring unique traits that—if honed—could launch them into the first-round conversation. The next great quarterback might be quietly preparing right now, just waiting for his moment.
