NFL 2026 Quarterback Shake-Up: Teams and Players to Watch

Explore the potential quarterback changes in the NFL for 2026, focusing on teams with uncertain QB situations and possible outcomes.

Arizona Cardinals

Current starter: Kyler Murray Signed through: 2027, plus a team option for 2028

Kyler Murray, who turned 28 recently, has shown consistent performance with a 66.6 QBR last season. However, the Cardinals might consider future options if Murray struggles with health or performance, especially with minimal dead money impact after 2026.

Most likely outcome: Murray leads the Cardinals to a strong season, possibly contending for a playoff spot.

Long shot outcome: A complete season collapse leads to a new regime considering a QB change in the 2026 draft.

Carolina Panthers

Current starter: Bryce Young Signed through: 2026, plus a team option for 2027

Bryce Young had a challenging start but finished strong in 2024. The Panthers' decision on his fifth-year option for 2027 will be crucial.

Most likely outcome: Young continues to develop, and the Panthers pick up his option.

Long shot outcome: Young excels, making the Pro Bowl, and the Panthers discuss an extension.

Cleveland Browns

Current starter: Joe Flacco Signed through: 2025

With a mix of veteran and rookie QBs, the Browns' situation is unpredictable. Deshaun Watson's contract also adds complexity.

Most likely outcome: The Browns end the season with more questions than answers and look to the 2026 draft for a solution.

Long shot outcome: Shedeur Sanders emerges as a starting QB, changing the team's draft strategy.

Indianapolis Colts

Current starter: Daniel Jones Signed through: 2025

The Colts face a tough decision between Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson. Richardson's health and performance are key factors.

Most likely outcome: Both QBs start multiple games, and the Colts look to the draft or free agency for a long-term solution.

Long shot outcome: Richardson takes over and shows high potential, securing his future with the Colts.

Las Vegas Raiders

Current starter: Geno Smith Signed through: 2027

Geno Smith's contract allows flexibility for the Raiders. His performance this season will determine his future with the team.

Most likely outcome: Smith plays well, and the Raiders adjust his contract for 2026.

Long shot outcome: The Raiders draft a new QB, and Smith remains as a backup or trade candidate.

Los Angeles Rams

Current starter: Matthew Stafford Signed through: 2026

Stafford's health and age are concerns. The Rams are positioned to address the QB position in the 2026 draft.

Most likely outcome: Stafford has a strong season, and the Rams use their draft picks for a long-term QB solution.

Long shot outcome: Stafford's back issues persist, leading the Rams to draft a top QB in 2026.

New Orleans Saints

Current starter: Spencer Rattler or Tyler Shough Signed through: Rattler 2027, Shough 2028

The Saints have a QB competition between Rattler and Shough. Shough, a second-round pick, is expected to develop into the starter.

Most likely outcome: Shough becomes the starter by the end of the season.

Long shot outcome: Neither QB shows promise, and the Saints draft a new QB in 2026.

New York Giants

Current starter: Russell Wilson Signed through: 2025

Wilson is set to start, but first-round pick Jaxson Dart could take over if the Giants struggle.

Most likely outcome: Dart takes over as the starter mid-season.

Long shot outcome: Wilson excels, and the Giants stay in playoff contention, delaying Dart's start.

New York Jets

Current starter: Justin Fields Signed through: 2026

Fields has shown potential but struggles with consistency. The Jets may look for stronger competition in 2026.

Most likely outcome: Fields remains the starter but faces competition in 2026.

Long shot outcome: Fields makes a significant leap, leading the Jets to the playoffs.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Current starter: Aaron Rodgers Signed through: 2025

Rodgers, at 42, is likely in his final season. The Steelers may look to the draft for a long-term QB solution.

Most likely outcome: Rodgers retires, and the Steelers draft a new QB.

Long shot outcome: Rodgers has a brilliant season, leading the Steelers to the Super Bowl.

Seattle Seahawks

Current starter: Sam Darnold Signed through: 2027

Darnold's contract allows flexibility. His performance will determine if he remains the starter beyond 2025.

Most likely outcome: Darnold plays well, and the Seahawks bring him back for 2026.

Long shot outcome: Darnold excels, leading the Seahawks to the playoffs and earning a new contract.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Current starter: Baker Mayfield Signed through: 2026

Mayfield has been consistent, leading the Buccaneers to division titles. A long-term extension is possible.

Most likely outcome: Mayfield leads the Buccaneers to the playoffs and gets a full-size extension.

Long shot outcome: The Buccaneers miss the playoffs, leading to a reconsideration of their commitment to Mayfield.

What to Read Next

NFL Week 2 Breakdown: Miami Dolphins' Crisis, Giants and Jets QB Dilemmas, and Fantasy Insights
NFL

NFL Week 2 Breakdown: Miami Dolphins' Crisis, Giants and Jets QB Dilemmas, and Fantasy Insights

Dive into the latest NFL Week 2 updates, including Miami Dolphins' struggles, Giants and Jets QB situations, and key fantasy football insights.

NFL Week 1 Surprises: Key Takeaways and Week 2 Predictions
NFL

NFL Week 1 Surprises: Key Takeaways and Week 2 Predictions

Analyzing the surprising performances from NFL Week 1 and predicting what to expect in Week 2, focusing on key players like Justin Herbert and Breece Hall.

Michael Penix Jr. Shines in High-Stakes NFL Showdown: Falcons' Rising Star Delivers Under Pressure
NFL

Michael Penix Jr. Shines in High-Stakes NFL Showdown: Falcons' Rising Star Delivers Under Pressure

Michael Penix Jr. showcases his exceptional skills in a thrilling NFL game, leading the Atlanta Falcons with remarkable plays and resilience.

Cleveland Browns' Offensive Potential Shines Despite Week 1 Loss to Bengals
NFL

Cleveland Browns' Offensive Potential Shines Despite Week 1 Loss to Bengals

Analyzing the Cleveland Browns' offensive strengths and rookie impacts after a narrow Week 1 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.

Kyler Murray and Marvin Harrison Jr.: A Dynamic Duo Transforming the Arizona Cardinals
NFL

Kyler Murray and Marvin Harrison Jr.: A Dynamic Duo Transforming the Arizona Cardinals

Explore how Kyler Murray and Marvin Harrison Jr. are forging a powerful connection, driving the Arizona Cardinals towards a promising NFL season.

2025 NFL Awards Predictions: MVP, Rookies, Comebacks, and Breakouts
NFL

2025 NFL Awards Predictions: MVP, Rookies, Comebacks, and Breakouts

Explore expert predictions for the 2025 NFL season awards, including MVP, top rookies, comeback players, and breakout stars. Get insights into who could dominate the league this year.

Jordan Battle: The Energizing Force Behind the Bengals' Defensive Revival
NFL

Jordan Battle: The Energizing Force Behind the Bengals' Defensive Revival

Discover how Jordan Battle's leadership and energy are driving the Cincinnati Bengals' defensive resurgence in the 2025 NFL season.

How the Chicago Bears' Collapse Against the Vikings Highlights Critical Game Management Issues
NFL

How the Chicago Bears' Collapse Against the Vikings Highlights Critical Game Management Issues

An in-depth analysis of the Chicago Bears' season-opening loss to the Minnesota Vikings, focusing on key moments and management decisions that led to their collapse.

Cam Ward's NFL Debut: A Promising Start with Room for Growth
NFL

Cam Ward's NFL Debut: A Promising Start with Room for Growth

Cam Ward's NFL debut with the Tennessee Titans showed promise despite a loss, highlighting his potential and areas for improvement.

Jayden Daniels' Trash Talk Tactics: A Key to Washington Commanders' Success
NFL

Jayden Daniels' Trash Talk Tactics: A Key to Washington Commanders' Success

Explore how Jayden Daniels' on-field trash talk is shaping the Washington Commanders' dynamic gameplay and their rise as NFC contenders.

Micah Parsons' Strategic Fantasy Football Draft Decision: Why He Didn't Pick Himself
NFL

Micah Parsons' Strategic Fantasy Football Draft Decision: Why He Didn't Pick Himself

Discover why Micah Parsons decided not to draft himself in fantasy football and the strategic insights behind his choices.

NFL Week 1 2025: Epic Showdowns and Unforgettable Quotes
NFL

NFL Week 1 2025: Epic Showdowns and Unforgettable Quotes

Relive the thrilling moments and unforgettable quotes from NFL Week 1 of the 2025 season, featuring epic showdowns and player reflections.

2025 NFL Fantasy Football Rankings: Key Player Movements and Season Predictions
NFL

2025 NFL Fantasy Football Rankings: Key Player Movements and Season Predictions

Eric Karabell updates his 2025 NFL fantasy football rankings, highlighting key player movements and season outlooks.

NFL Week 2 Waiver Wire: Top Fantasy Football Pickups and Strategies
NFL

NFL Week 2 Waiver Wire: Top Fantasy Football Pickups and Strategies

Discover the top NFL waiver wire pickups for Week 2 of the 2025 fantasy football season, with expert insights from Eric Karabell.

Houston Texans Seek Redemption After Season Opener Setback Against Rams
NFL

Houston Texans Seek Redemption After Season Opener Setback Against Rams

The Houston Texans faced a tough season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, highlighting areas for improvement as they prepare for their next game.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.