NFL Draft analyst Jordan Reid released his latest 2026 quarterback hot board this week, and one name stood out for starting to rise up that not many may have expected yet.
Taylen Green Could Be the Sleeper NFL Teams Are Searching For
Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green checked in at No. 7 overall, ranking ahead of several well-known and decorated signal callers, including Clemson’s Cade Klubnik, Baylor’s Sawyer Robertson, and Vanderbilt’s Heisman finalist Diego Pavia. In a quarterback class viewed by many scouts as thinner than recent years, Green’s placement signals real belief in his NFL upside.
Reid currently projects the 6-foot-6, 225-pound senior as an early Day 3 selection, placing him in the fourth- to fifth-round range. While that projection leaves room for movement, the evaluation itself paints Green as one of the more intriguing developmental quarterbacks in the class.
What separates Green from many of his peers is his dual-threat ability paired with rare size. Reid specifically highlighted Green’s effectiveness as a runner, noting that he posted eight games with 50 or more rushing yards this past season. His long, fluid strides create matchup problems for defenses, forcing linebackers and safeties into uncomfortable decisions when he takes off.
"“Green’s long strides put teams in a bind when he runs,” Reid wrote. “Green also has the arm talent to get the ball to spots he wants with his elongated over-the-top release.”"Jordan Reid
That combination of mobility and arm talent is exactly what NFL teams look for in mid-round quarterback prospects. Green isn’t viewed as a finished product, but rather a legitimate developmental project, one with physical traits that can’t be taught. His frame, speed, and arm strength give him a foundation that quarterback coaches can mold, especially in a league that increasingly values athleticism at the position.
The timing of Green’s rise is also important. With this year’s quarterback class perceived as weaker than usual, opportunities exist for prospects to climb boards through strong pre-draft performances. For Green, that climb begins in earnest at the Senior Bowl next week, where scouts from all 32 NFL teams will be in attendance.
The Senior Bowl represents Green’s first major proving ground against top competition in a controlled environment. Practices, interviews, and game reps will give evaluators a clearer picture of his decision-making, accuracy, and command of an offense, areas that can dramatically impact draft stock.
Reid’s high ranking suggests expectations can be elevated with a strong showing in the pre-draft process, but Green has the talent to meet them. If he delivers in Mobile, his current Day 3 projection could quickly turn into something more.
For now, Taylen Green’s inclusion near the top of Jordan Reid’s hot board confirms what Arkansas fans have seen all season: a quarterback with uncommon tools, growing confidence, and a very real path to hearing his name called on draft weekend.