5 quarterback prospects Jets fans must watch in college football Week 1

The New York Jets will be trying to turn their 2026 team into a winner as Aaron Glenn tries to prove himself, but that won't stop Darren Mougey and the rest of the front office from looking at the top quarterbacks in college football as the team's search for a franchise quarterback goes on,

Even as top prospects like Ohio State's Julian Sayin and South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers prepare for 2026 with expected victories against Ball State and Kent State, respectively, there are plenty of gunslingers to keep an eye on.

These five quarterbacks will face opponents of some repute, and it will give the Jets an opportunity to see how much they have developed since last year.

5 QBs New York Jets fans can watch in college football Week 1

5. Drew Mestemaker, Oklahoma State (vs. Tulsa)

Mestemaker is this class' true wild card, as the redshirt sophomore went from a high school backup to NCAA passing yards leader at North Texas. Tulsa will be better this year, and it could show how well Mestemaker and coach Eric Morris have been able to bring their past success to Stillwater. If he thrives, Mougey will see it.

4. Darian Mensah, Miami (vs. Stanford)

The former Duke quarterback is very efficient and possesses great accuracy, but he doesn't have the strongest arm and can struggle when forced off his spot. The Frank Reich-less Cardinal could provide more of a defensive challenge than they did in 2025, which could make Mensah work for a win even when the outcome is expected.

3. CJ Carr, Notre Dame (vs. Wisconsin)

Carr's big issue is not related to throwing from the pocket, as he has dead-eye accuracy and a strong arm that will get NFL teams interested. Without great athleticism and a spindly frame, Carr will need to show Mougey and other NFL decision-makers that he can overcome those flaws.

2. Dante Moore, Oregon (vs. Boise State)

Moore may have dodged the Jets once, but there's a chance that New York ends up with the very polished and accurate Oregon passer. The Broncos represent a fairly solid defense that will test Moore's skills more than most of the cannon-fodder elite programs face in Week 1.

1. Arch Manning, Texas (vs. Texas State)

Manning is favored by many to be the No. 1 overall pick as the season ramps up, but he still needs to show that he has made some improvements in his accuracy in the pocket. His name will get buzz and attention, but he needs to start backing it up with more steak and less sizzle than in the past.

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