Top 5 surprise in 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Jets and Saints select unexpected QBs

While we are only two weeks into the NFL season, it is already becoming clear which teams look like true contenders and which ones could be in the race for the No. 1 overall pick. Several of these teams are likely to address the quarterback position, with three signal-callers projected to go in the top four. The only other position cracking the top five is offensive tackle.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Top 5 picks

1. New York Jets: John Mateer, QB, Oklahoma

It might feel early to project Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer as the number one pick, but don’t be surprised if he ends up there. He’s been the top-performing quarterback prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft so far, throwing for at least 270 yards in every game and averaging 4.9 yards per carry as a runner. Mateer has the arm strength, playmaking ability, and mobility to be viewed as a franchise quarterback.

The Jets, meanwhile, are averaging just 133 passing yards per game. Justin Fields’ most recent outing against Buffalo was brutal: 3-for-11 passing for 27 yards. Quarterback is a glaring need New York cannot afford to ignore next offseason. 

2. New Orleans Saints: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

The Saints have to be pleased with Spencer Rattler’s play so far this season, but if they end up picking in the top two of the 2026 NFL Draft it is hard to see them passing on a quarterback.

Coming into the year I had Fernando Mendoza rated as the top quarterback in this class, and he has looked every bit the part. Over his last two games he has completed 37 of 45 passes for 515 yards and nine touchdowns with zero interceptions. Mendoza is a big, athletic quarterback with a much higher ceiling than Rattler or 2025 second-round pick Tyler Shough.

3. Miami Dolphins: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah

The Dolphins have been one of the league’s most disappointing teams this year and could be headed for a rebuild. Protecting Tua Tagovailoa has been a major issue, as they have already given up eight sacks, the third-worst mark in the NFL.

Utah’s Spencer Fano is the top offensive lineman on my board and brings the versatility to play right tackle, left tackle, or guard. He has yet to allow a pressure this season, and in 2024 he led all offensive tackles with a 93.6 Pro Football Focus run-blocking grade.

4. Cleveland Browns: Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU

The Browns have one of the weakest quarterback situations in the league. Joe Flacco is 40 years old and a long way from the form that carried Baltimore to a Super Bowl. Their two rookie draft picks, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, had only average preseasons and do not look like future franchise quarterbacks.

LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier has not been dominant to start the season, partly due to injuries, but he still flashes the traits of a high-level NFL starter. He has the accuracy to hit receivers in stride, the athleticism to extend plays, and a quick release that allows him to get the ball out under pressure.

5. Tennessee Titans: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami

The Titans have to be pleased with former No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward, who has already shown the ability to make big-time throws. The concern is how often he is getting hit. Ward has been sacked 11 times, the most in the NFL.

"Francis Mauigoa is striving for perfection, for absolute excellence. He just goes. He’s got his foot on the gas. He is unbelievably fun to coach because every single day, he brings it, and he brings it with a great attitude.
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Miami head coach Mario Cristobal

To protect their young quarterback, Tennessee adds another Hurricane in offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa. He should step in right away and replace Dan Moore. Mauigoa is an impressive athlete, ranked 16th on Bruce Feldman’s annual “Freaks” list, and has allowed only two sacks over the past two seasons.