The final whistle has blown on the 2026 NFL preseason, marking the end of the first professional summer for a fresh crop of signal-callers. As teams prepare for the looming guillotine of cut-down day, the performances from the last week of exhibition games are being scrutinized more than ever. For many young quarterbacks, this past weekend was their ultimate chance to solidify a roster spot or at least put enough impressive tape out there to catch the eye of another franchise. The 2026 NFL preseason Week 3 rookie QB grades have now been compiled, offering a comprehensive look at who rose to the occasion and who struggled under pressure.
Seventeen rookie quarterbacks suited up over the final week, each hoping to make their mark. While the status of top picks like Rams first-round selection Ty Simpson might be considered rock solid, a significant number of these players are fighting for their NFL lives, aiming for a spot on the 53-man roster or a practice squad role. The stakes were incredibly high, and the results were a mixed bag of standout performances and disappointing outings.
Undrafted Ravens QB Steals the Show in Final Preseason Test
Among the most compelling narratives from the final preseason week was the emergence of Baltimore’s undrafted rookie, Joe Fagnano. The Ravens’ signal-caller delivered a performance that not only earned him one of the highest marks but also positioned him as a shining example of an underdog making a strong case for a roster spot. Fagnano’s impressive play was a highlight of the weekend, demonstrating poise and skill that belied his undrafted status. His efforts were recognized with a top grade, placing him alongside the highly touted Ty Simpson of the Rams, who also earned an ‘A’ for his preseason finale.
Simpson, a first-round pick, lived up to expectations, showcasing the talent that made him a high draft selection. His strong showing reinforces the confidence placed in him by the Rams organization. These top performances from both a highly drafted talent and an undrafted gem underscore the unpredictable nature of preseason football, where opportunities are given, and careers can be shaped in a single game. The journey for these rookies is far from over, but a significant hurdle has been cleared with such strong showings.
First-Round Talent and Late-Round Hopefuls: A Mixed Bag
While Fagnano and Simpson celebrated high marks, the spectrum of the 2026 NFL preseason Week 3 rookie QB grades included a range of outcomes. Fernando Mendoza, for instance, received a ‘D’ grade, indicating a performance that likely fell short of expectations. Similarly, Cole Payton, the Eagles’ fifth-round pick (No. 178 overall from North Dakota State), faced a challenging outing. Payton saw the field on Philadelphia’s final offensive possession against Cincinnati, which resulted in a three-and-out, with the offense moving backward by three yards. He missed both of his pass attempts and took a sack that lost three yards, ultimately earning him an ‘F’ grade.
Garrett Nussmeier, the Chiefs’ seventh-round selection (No. 249 overall from LSU), was given the nod to play the entire game in Kansas City’s preseason finale against Seattle. He completed 22 of 34 passes for 198 yards, but recorded no touchdowns and threw an interception. That turnover on his second drive proved costly, as the Seahawks capitalized by turning it into a field goal in a game that ended in a 9-9 tie. However, Nussmeier demonstrated resilience, settling down to lead scoring drives (all field goals) on his next two possessions. He earned a ‘C’ grade and is now hoping to deepen a quarterback room headlined by Patrick Mahomes and top backup Justin Fields, aiming to secure a spot on the final 53-man roster. For a complete breakdown of all the rookie quarterback performances, readers can refer to the detailed analysis of the 2026 NFL preseason rookie QB grades.
The Looming Cut-Down Day and Regular Season Horizon
With the preseason now officially concluded, the focus swiftly shifts to the impending cut-down day. This is a critical period where NFL rosters are trimmed to the mandated 53 players, a process that can be both exhilarating and heartbreaking for these young athletes. The performances from the 2026 NFL preseason Week 3 rookie QB grades will undoubtedly play a significant role in these crucial decisions. For those who impressed, like Joe Fagnano and Ty Simpson, their stock has certainly risen. For others, the path forward might involve the practice squad or even a fresh start with a new team.
As Week 1 of the NFL season is now just ten days away, the transition from evaluation to competition is imminent. The stakes will only get higher, and the pressure will intensify. While preseason grades offer a snapshot of potential, the true test of a rookie’s mettle is yet to come. The journey for these young talents is just beginning, and their ability to adapt and perform under the bright lights of the regular season will ultimately determine their long-term success. The broader landscape of rookie impact, including potential contenders for the NFL Rookie of the Year awards, is also being discussed as the regular season approaches, with many eyes on how these first-year players will integrate into their respective teams. For more insights into the promising newcomers, discussions around the NFL Rookie of the Year 2026 predictions are already underway.
