The NFL draft is a spectacle of predictions, projections, and, often, pure unpredictability. While mock drafts and big boards dominate the conversation for months, the actual event has a way of rewriting the script entirely. Every year, a handful of highly-touted prospects experience the dreaded "slide," waiting longer in the green room than anyone anticipated. As we look ahead to the 2026 class, several marquee names could be in for a longer-than-expected draft night.
The quarterback position always commands the spotlight, and the 2026 draft cycle is no different. However, intense scrutiny and a deep class can lead to surprising falls. Alabama's dynamic playmaker Ty Simpson, despite his Rose Bowl heroics, could see teams with immediate needs look elsewhere if questions about consistency arise. Similarly, LSU's strong-armed passer Garrett Nussmeier, whose stock soared after a prolific Texas Bowl performance, might find himself in a mid-round conversation if evaluators prioritize prototypical size or mobility in the first wave.
Beyond the signal-callers, other positions hold potential for draft-day drama. Clemson's Cade Klubnik, a player with undeniable talent and ACC pedigree, could slip if teams perceive a ceiling limited by his offensive system. Penn State's powerful quarterback Drew Allar, known for his prototypical frame and arm strength, might also wait if his final collegiate season doesn't showcase improved downfield accuracy and decision-making under pressure.
Perhaps the most intriguing potential slide belongs to Indiana's Fernando Mendoza. His legendary performance in the 2025 Peach Bowl semifinal announced him as a star, but the leap from a single spectacular game to a surefire first-round pick is immense. If teams dwell on his overall body of work or scheme fit, Mendoza could become the 2026 draft's most talked-about value pick on Day 2 or 3, much like the unexpected fall of Shedeur Sanders in 2025.
For these athletes, a slide isn't an end—it's often the beginning of a powerful narrative. Landing with the right team, in the right system, with a chip on their shoulder can forge a legendary career. As the evaluation process intensifies, remember that the draft is less about where you start and more about the grit and performance you bring once you finally hear your name called.