The 2026 NFL Draft, taking place in Pittsburgh, is generating buzz as projected No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza has decided to forgo the event to spend time with his family in Miami. This decision leaves Ty Simpson, a quarterback from the Alabama Crimson Tide, as the only invited quarterback, although his selection on the first night is not guaranteed. The NFL has invited a total of 16 prospects to attend the draft, which includes players from various colleges. Notable attendees include defensive end David Bailey from Texas Tech, cornerback Colton Hood from Tennessee, and wide receiver Makai Lemon from USC. As the draft approaches, speculation arises about the potential for only one quarterback to be selected in the first round, with Mendoza's absence marking a significant moment in the lead-up to this key event in the NFL calendar.