Patrick Mahomes Dominates Draft Prospects' 'Final Minute TD' Vote
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes overwhelmingly topped the 2026 NFL Combine Survey as the preferred choice for leading a late-game touchdown drive, showcasing his dominance with 20 fourth-quarter comebacks.
INDIANAPOLIS — When 42 prospects at the 2026 NFL Draft were asked a simple question — which quarterback would you want leading a late-game touchdown drive? — the answer was overwhelming.
Patrick Mahomes won by a landslide.
The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback received 15 votes in the NFL Combine Survey, nearly double the second-place finisher. It marks the third consecutive time this exercise has been conducted, and Mahomes has topped the poll every time.
"It's hard not to say Patrick Mahomes," one prospect said.
Mahomes' dominance reflects his clutch resume. He ranks eighth among active quarterbacks with 20 career fourth-quarter comebacks, but leads all quarterbacks drafted in 2013 or later in that category. His combination of arm talent, mobility, and proven ability to execute under pressure has made him the gold standard for game-winning drives across the league.
The Rest of the Field
Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens finished second with 8 votes despite holding only 11 career fourth-quarter comebacks — fewer than Mahomes' tally.
Josh Allen claimed third place with 5 votes after logging six game-winning drives (including postseason) this past season with the Buffalo Bills.
Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears earned 4 votes following a strong rookie campaign that included seven fourth-quarter comeback victories in the regular season and postseason. His memorable fourth-down touchdown pass to tie the game against the Los Angeles Rams in their divisional-round loss bolstered his credentials.
Matthew Stafford of the Rams received 3 votes following his MVP season. The veteran carries 39 career fourth-quarter comeback victories — the fourth-most all-time and the most among all active quarterbacks.
One vote each went to Joe Burrow (Bengals), Sam Darnold (Seahawks), Brock Purdy (49ers), and Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers).
Notably, Jalen Hurts of the Eagles — last year's runner-up — received zero votes as Philadelphia's offense regressed this season.
The Dodgers
Three prospects skipped the question entirely. One deferred to coaching philosophy: "The quarterback that coach puts out there that he trusts to go out there and execute the job. That's the quarterback we're standing with."
Another prospect declined to engage: "I'm more so into hitting quarterbacks."
