While some college coaches wrapped up spring practice or chased recruits, most were glued to their screens like the rest of America during the 2026 NFL Draft – except Indiana’s Curt Cignetti, who boldly scheduled his team’s spring game against Round 1 drama. And guess what? His star quarterback Fernando Mendoza went No. 1 overall to the Raiders in storybook fashion.
Coaches across every Power 4 conference opened up to ESPN about what really went down, sharing raw takes on fits, red flags, and the biggest head-scratchers from April 24-26 in Pittsburgh. Here’s the explosive inside scoop straight from the sidelines.
The Ty Simpson Stunner That Had Everyone Talking Alabama’s Ty Simpson wasn’t even in the No. 1 QB conversation, yet the Rams shocked the world by grabbing him at No. 13. SEC defensive coordinators were floored. One said, “I was surprised by the team too.” Another noted Simpson didn’t stack up to previous Alabama QBs in toughness, calling the high pick a “Wow, OK” moment.
Simpson started just 15 games and dealt with injuries, but teams fell for his unteachable traits. “He’s not ready to start right now,” one coordinator admitted, “but his long game is going to be special.” The Rams see him learning behind Matthew Stafford – the ultimate drama-filled landing spot.
Mendoza Locks In at No. 1 – But Not Everyone’s Convinced Fernando Mendoza’s heroics in the national title game sealed his spot atop the draft. Big Ten coaches raved about his decision-making, size, and underrated arm strength. “His movement skills were very underrated,” Cignetti said.
Yet one ACC coach who faced him wasn’t sold: “He’s a good decision-maker, but I don’t think he’s got the NFL traits. Those back-shoulder throws won’t fly in the pros.” Still, the kid delivers in huge moments – you can’t teach that clutch gene.
David Bailey’s Pass-Rush Firepower Steals No. 2 The Jets went with Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey at No. 2 after a fierce debate. Big 12 coaches called him one of the purest pass rushers they’ve ever seen. He led the FBS with 14.5 sacks and exploded after switching positions. “We identified him early – this guy is going to rush the passer,” Texas Tech’s Joey McGuire said.
Other First-Round Fireworks & Position Drama
- Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor (No. 12 to Dolphins): Massive traits but production questions. “More potential than production,” one SEC voice said – yet his workout tape made him impossible to pass up.
- Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love (No. 3 to Cardinals): Highest-drafted running back in years.
- Ohio State S Caleb Downs (No. 11 to Cowboys): Generational talent who still couldn’t crack the top 10 at safety – sparking major “what if” debates.
Florida DT Caleb Banks went No. 18 to the Vikings despite injury red flags, while San Diego State’s Chris Johnson became the lone Group of 6 first-rounder at No. 27 after a monster combine.
Quarterback Drought Turns Into a Free Fall Zero QBs in Round 2. Carson Beck kicked off Round 3 to the Cardinals. Drew Allar, Cade Klubnik, and Garrett Nussmeier all slid further than expected. Injuries and inconsistency created total chaos for a group once hyped as elite.
Day 2 Tight End Explosion Teams went wild for tight ends, grabbing eight in a frenzy. From Vanderbilt’s Mackey Award winner Eli Stowers to in-line blockers with limited college stats – everyone wants that 12-personnel edge. “Everybody wants two stud tight ends,” one coordinator explained.
Programs That Dominated the Draft Texas Tech set a record with nine picks. Miami flexed with three first-round linemen. Texas A&M tied its record with 10. Clemson and Iowa also delivered big hauls, proving development beats recruiting rankings every time.
The 2026 draft delivered non-stop twists, value steals, and head-scratching reaches. College coaches saw it all coming – or didn’t – and the NFL is about to feel the ripple effects for years.