Quarterbacks chase next Fernando Mendoza rise as 2027 NFL Draft class looks for breakout star
TOI GLOBAL DESK | TOI GLOBAL | May 01, 2026, 05:14 IST
Quarterbacks chase next Fernando Mendoza rise as 2027 NFL Draft class looks for breakout star
Fernando Mendozaset a high standard with his remarkable rise from an under-the-radar recruit to a Heisman winner and projected top pick after leadingIndiana Hoosiers footballto a national title. Replicating that trajectory in the 2027 NFL Draft class will be difficult, though several quarterbacks show breakout potential.Jayden Maiavahas impressed atUSC Trojans footballwith his size and accuracy, whileSam Leavittcould rebound strongly atLSU Tigers footballafter injury.Byrum Brownoffers dual-threat ability atAuburn Tigers football, andJosh Hoovermay step into a key role at Indiana. Others likeLaNorris SellersandNico Iamaleavamust find consistency. While the class is talented, matching Mendoza’s meteoric rise remains unlikely, though surprises are always possible.
Finding the next Fernando Mendoza for the 2027 NFL Draft will not be easy. The Heisman winner had a standout season at Indiana Hoosiers football, leading the team to a perfect run and a national title. His rise from a low-ranked recruit to the No. 1 pick makes his story rare, and repeating that kind of jump will be tough for any quarterback.
Still, every year brings surprises. Like Cam Ward, who improved his stock late, there is always a chance someone can break out. This upcoming class already has big names like Arch Manning and Dante Moore, but the focus here is on others who could take that big step forward.
Jayden Maiava from USC Trojans football stands out with his size and accuracy. He already showed strong numbers last season and could rise even more. Sam Leavitt, now with LSU Tigers football, is coming back from injury but has the skill to produce big numbers again.
Byrum Brown at Auburn Tigers football brings power and running ability, though he still needs to improve his technique. Josh Hoover could take over smoothly at Indiana, even if he plays a different style.
Players like John Mateer, LaNorris Sellers and Drew Mestemaker all show flashes but need consistency. Meanwhile, Nico Iamaleava and DJ Lagway are trying to rebuild their form after tough stretches.
In the end, this group has talent, but matching Mendoza’s rise will be hard. Another massive breakout campaign could alter the landscape, and that is what teams will be watching for. Pulling even with the top prospects might prove impossible, but college football has seen surprises before.
Still, every year brings surprises. Like Cam Ward, who improved his stock late, there is always a chance someone can break out. This upcoming class already has big names like Arch Manning and Dante Moore, but the focus here is on others who could take that big step forward.
Jayden Maiava from USC Trojans football stands out with his size and accuracy. He already showed strong numbers last season and could rise even more. Sam Leavitt, now with LSU Tigers football, is coming back from injury but has the skill to produce big numbers again.
Byrum Brown at Auburn Tigers football brings power and running ability, though he still needs to improve his technique. Josh Hoover could take over smoothly at Indiana, even if he plays a different style.
Players like John Mateer, LaNorris Sellers and Drew Mestemaker all show flashes but need consistency. Meanwhile, Nico Iamaleava and DJ Lagway are trying to rebuild their form after tough stretches.
In the end, this group has talent, but matching Mendoza’s rise will be hard. Another massive breakout campaign could alter the landscape, and that is what teams will be watching for. Pulling even with the top prospects might prove impossible, but college football has seen surprises before.