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Cleveland Browns Must Prepare for Cloudy 2026 Quarterback Class

The consensus top three QBs right now are Alabama's Ty Simpson, Oregon's Dante Moore, and Indiana's Fernando Mendoza. If there is a franchise passer in this class, it very well could be one of these. Simpson is a first-year starter for the Crimson Tide, and while he doesn't have premier physical traits, he's been playing smart and efficient football, and it's hard to argue with his production; 8.4 yards per attempt, 20 touchdowns, and only one interception.

Moore started for the UCLA Bruins as a freshman in 2023, and spent 2024 backing up Dillon Gabriel in his first year with the Ducks. Now starting in Eugene, Moore has shown a lot of promise, displaying a quick release and accuracy to all levels of the field. He has a slight build at 6-foot-3 206 pounds, but while he isn't a running QB, he has the requisite athletic ability avoid pressure in the pocket and escape it when needed.

The crown jewel of the class, at least through nine weeks, is Mendoza, who leads the undefeated Hoosiers in his first year with the program. He transferred from California after starting 19 games over two years for the Golden Bears, and while there were high hopes for him in Bloomington, he's surpassed all expectations. He's averaging 9.4 yards per attempt and has thrown 24 touchdowns to just three picks. Mendoza is the betting favorite for the Heisman Trophy, and for good reason.

As a prospect, he possesses prototypical size, a good feel for pressure, and excellent accuracy. His arm is fine by NFL standards, but not great. He's lauded for his mental ability, which is part of the reason why he's having so much success. While he's the consensus top prospect right now, there is a difference between being an elite college player and being an NFL QB, so it remains to be seen how the league will feel about him.

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