College football analysts identify seven breakout quarterback candidates for 2026 season

As the 2026 college football season begins, analysts are monitoring seven quarterbacks who could replicate the unexpected rise of Cal signal-caller Fernando Mendoza. The list includes Jaden Craig at TCU, who transitions from the FCS level, and CJ Bailey of NC State, who finished last season with consistent production. Minnesota’s Drake Lindsey also appears on the list following a strong conclusion to his previous campaign. Other players highlighted for potential stardom include DJ Lagway, who transferred to Baylor, and Cutter Boley of Arizona State. These athletes are expected to compete for national recognition and NFL draft status alongside high-profile names like Arch Manning and Dante Moore. Scouts will track whether these players can sustain performance levels to emerge as legitimate prospects by the conclusion of the current schedule.

• 7:00 AMYahoo Sports — Meet the 7 underrated QBs who could be college football's next Fernando Mendoza