Drew Mestemaker isn't thinking about the NFL Draft—and I think that's exactly why he could hear his name called one day. Oklahoma State's quarterback says his focus is on winning football games, not draft projections. That's the mindset the Cowboys need heading into 2026.
What's the biggest key to Drew Mestemaker's NFL future?
Drew Mestemaker knows the NFL Draft conversation has already started.
He also knows it doesn't matter right now.
The Oklahoma State quarterback has drawn early attention from draft analysts heading into the 2026 season after a breakout campaign at North Texas and a high-profile transfer to Stillwater. For many players, that type of recognition can become a distraction.
Mestemaker doesn't seem interested in letting that happen.
When asked about the NFL Draft during Big 12 Media Days, his answer was refreshingly simple.
"That is definitely not something I am focused on right now because I got something big sitting right in front of me."
I think that's exactly the mindset Oklahoma State needs from its quarterback.
It's easy for players to get caught up in preseason hype.
Mock drafts.
Award watch lists.
NFL projections.
None of those things win football games.
Mestemaker understands that.
His focus isn't on impressing scouts.
It's on helping Oklahoma State bounce back from one of the most disappointing seasons in program history.
Ironically, that's probably the best way to improve his draft stock anyway.
NFL teams don't just evaluate arm strength or athleticism.
They evaluate leadership.
Decision-making.
Winning.
The quickest path to hearing your name called in the NFL Draft is leading your team to victories on Saturdays.
Mestemaker's journey makes that perspective even more impressive.
He wasn't a highly touted quarterback destined for the NFL from day one.
He didn't even start at quarterback during his high school career and eventually walked on at North Texas before earning the starting job.
Now, he's entering the season as the face of Oklahoma State's rebuild.
That's a remarkable climb.
I also like that he isn't acting like someone who's already arrived.
Throughout the offseason, Mestemaker has consistently said the right things.
He isn't putting a ceiling on what Oklahoma State can accomplish.
He spoke about the confidence he gained at the Manning Passing Academy by competing alongside some of the nation's best quarterbacks.
Now he's making it clear his attention remains on one thing.
Winning.
That's exactly what fans should want to hear.
Because if Oklahoma State wins, everything else will follow.
Conference recognition.
National rankings.
And yes...
NFL Draft conversations.
Those opportunities aren't built in July.
They're earned between September and November.
Mestemaker appears to understand that better than anyone.
The irony is almost perfect.
The less he worries about the NFL Draft, the better chance he has of becoming an NFL Draft pick.
The quickest path to the NFL isn't thinking about the NFL.
It's leading Oklahoma State back to winning football.
