The 2026 NFL Draft quarterback class features intriguing talents with questions around size, athleticism, arm strength, or processing. The NFL Scouting Combine (February 23rd to March 2nd) in Indianapolis often serves as a stock riser (if they play well) for QBs on the Day 2/3 bubble.
Here are three college quarterbacks who must dominate workouts to solidify or elevate their draft status.
A dominating NFL Combine performance in 2026 is crucial for three college quarterbacks
1. Dante Moore, Oregon (Redshirt Sophomore)
Moore, a former five-star recruit, exploded in 2025 with Oregon, completing 72.9% of passes for 3,280 yards, 28 TDs, and just 9 INTs while adding dual-threat ability. Scouts love his arm talent and upside, often ranking him as a top-3 QB with first-round potential.
Why he needs to dominate the Combine: Listed at 6-3, 206 pounds, Moore is viewed as needing to “fill out” his frame—concerns about bulk and durability persist, especially as a younger prospect (turns 21 after the draft).
A strong 40-yard dash (sub-4.6 projected), explosive broad jump, and smooth throwing session could cement him as QB1 or QB2, pushing into top-15 picks. A mediocre workout might drop him to late Round 1/early Round 2 amid a thin class.
Moore was a standout student athlete at Martin Luther King Jr. High School in Detroit before being recruited by UCLA. With strong academics, whereas other rely on a premium essay writing service, Moore excelled and caught the attention of Oregon. He transferred, and blossomed.
2. Ty Simpson, Alabama
Simpson emerged as a pro-ready passer in 2025, praised for precision, decision-making, and pocket presence—some call him the “most NFL-ready” in the class. His tape shows excellent anticipation and ball placement.
Why he needs to dominate the Combine: Limited live-game experience and questions about elite arm strength/mobility hold him back (projected 4.80 40).
Developmental traits (mental/mechanical growth needed) make him a riser candidate, but scouts want verification of athletic upside. Blazing drills—strong velocity in throws, good shuttle times, and confirming size (around 6-2, 200+)—could vault him into first-round talks alongside Mendoza/Moore. Poor testing reinforces “safe but limited ceiling” narratives, potentially sliding him to Day 2.
3. Drew Allar, Penn State
Allar boasts prototype size (6-5, 235) and one of the strongest arms in the class, capable of all-level throws. His physical tools pass the eye test for NFL franchises.
Why he needs to dominate the Combine: Tape shows inconsistency in processing, mechanics under pressure, and decision-making—leading to high-variance play. Critics question instincts despite the cannon arm. The Combine is his chance to wow with velocity (top arm talent), athleticism for his size (better-than-expected 40/shuttle), and polished interviews/throws.
Elite performance could revive first-round buzz; subpar results (e.g., stiff hips, average mobility) might cement him as a Round 2-3 project, echoing past big-armed but raw prospects.
The 2026 QB class is competitive at the top (Fernando Mendoza often leads as pro-ready), but these three have the most to gain or lose at the Combine. Athletic testing and on-field drills will separate risers from fallers in a group lacking clear elites. Teams needing QBs will watch closely for that “wow” factor.
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