The 2025 NFL draft may have just wrapped up, but the media and fans are already looking ahead to the 2026 draft. Arch Manning is one of the names generating the most buzz in the conversations about the draft class next year.
While Manning is the headliner for many right now, that could change throughout the 2025 season. There is a legitimate chance that Manning might not even come out of college.
Plenty of way-too-early mock drafts have started coming out. Other analysts have been throwing out their favorite names for next year’s draft class.
Rece Davis, the popular ESPN college football personality, has spoken out with his prediction for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft. His prediction is not Manning.
During a segment of the “College Gameday Podcast,” Davis revealed that he believes LSU standout quarterback Garrett Nussmeier will be the top pick.
“I think [the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft] might end up being Nussmeier,” Davis said. “It comes out hot and nice with that cat. It just pops off his hand.”
Davis continued forward, talking more about his thoughts on Nussmeier and why he thinks the quarterback could make a big jump ahead of the 2026 draft.
“Nussmeier might be one of those super gifted guys,” Davis said. “But I also think that probably both LSU this year and whatever NFL team gets him, they’re going to have some ‘Why did he throw that’ moments because of the supreme confidence he has in his ability to make those throws and I actually love that kind of guy. I think he’s terrific. He’s fun to watch.”
Nussmeier put together a strong 2024 campaign with the Tigers. He completed 64.2% of his pass attempts for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. In addition, he also scored three more touchdowns on the ground.
As the 2025 college football season gets underway, it will be interesting to watch which players begin separating themselves as contenders to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
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