Falcons scouts eye QB rivals Moore, Mestemaker

The Atlanta Falcons' front office is actively scouting for their next generation of talent, with a particular focus on potential future quarterbacks. On Saturday, September 12, 2026, President of Football Matt Ryan and general manager Ian Cunningham attended the Oregon Ducks vs. Oklahoma State Cowboys game in Stillwater. Both teams feature highly-touted quarterback prospects for the 2027 NFL Draft.

Oregon's Dante Moore, a senior pocket passer, is considered by many NFL executives and scouts to be the top quarterback prospect for the upcoming draft. He passed for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns last season. In the recent game, Moore threw for 191 yards and two touchdowns.

Oklahoma State's Drew Mestemaker, a redshirt sophomore, also impressed. After transferring from North Texas, Mestemaker led college football in passing yards last year with 4,379 and 34 touchdowns. He contributed 317 yards, two passing touchdowns, and a rushing touchdown in the game against Oregon.

The Falcons' interest stems from ongoing questions surrounding their quarterback situation. Cooper Rush is slated to start Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to Tua Tagovailoa's oblique injury and Michael Penix Jr.'s recovery from a torn ACL. Rush is also dealing with back spasms, further complicating matters for the team.

Beyond the quarterbacks, Atlanta scouts are evaluating other potential draftees. Oregon boasts defensive lineman A'Mauri Washington and tight end Jamari Johnson, both projected first-rounders. Oklahoma State has mid-round prospects like wide receiver Wyatt Young and running back Caleb Hawkins. The Falcons' draft position in 2027 will be influenced by their upcoming season's record, with a lower pick potentially offering a better chance to secure a franchise quarterback.