Who are the top NFL draft prospects in the 2026 CFP Championship?

The top prospects include Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza and Miami edge-rusher Rueben Bain Jr., both projected as top-five picks.

Can Carson Beck improve his NFL draft stock in the championship game?

Yes, a strong performance by Miami QB Carson Beck could significantly boost his draft stock and potentially place him in first-round consideration.

Which teams are picking early in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Las Vegas Raiders hold the first pick, followed by the New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals, and Tennessee Titans, who are all potential landing spots for top prospects.

Home / Sports / Mendoza, Bain Lead CFP Draft Stars

Mendoza, Bain Lead CFP Draft Stars

20 Jan

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Summary

Indiana's Fernando Mendoza and Miami's Rueben Bain Jr. are top NFL draft prospects.
Carson Beck has a chance to boost his draft stock significantly.
The CFP Championship features multiple future NFL stars vying for top picks.

The 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship between the Indiana Hoosiers and Miami Hurricanes not only determines the national champion but also serves as a crucial final showcase for future NFL stars. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza of Indiana and edge-rusher Rueben Bain Jr. of Miami are widely projected as top prospects, with Mendoza a strong candidate for the first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders. Their performances on this high-pressure stage could solidify their status among the elite.

Other notable prospects expected to shine include Miami's offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa, considered a near first-round lock. Indiana's Elijah Sarratt and cornerback D'Angelo Ponds are also on the radar for Day 1 or Day 2 selections. These players have an opportunity to impress scouts and potentially improve their draft positioning in the final game of their college careers.