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

2025 AFC South Betting Preview: Texans Lead, But Can Colts, Jaguars, or Titans Surprise?
NFL

2025 AFC South Betting Preview: Texans Lead, But Can Colts, Jaguars, or Titans Surprise?

Explore the 2025 AFC South betting landscape as the Houston Texans aim for a third straight title, while the Jaguars, Colts, and Titans look to challenge.

NFC South 2025 Season Betting Preview: Can the Buccaneers Dominate Again?
NFL

NFC South 2025 Season Betting Preview: Can the Buccaneers Dominate Again?

Explore the NFC South 2025 season betting odds, team projections, and expert insights on the Buccaneers, Falcons, Panthers, and Saints.

Malcolm Koonce's Comeback: The Raiders' Defensive Edge for the 2025 NFL Season
NFL

Malcolm Koonce's Comeback: The Raiders' Defensive Edge for the 2025 NFL Season

Malcolm Koonce's return to the Las Vegas Raiders promises to bolster their defense as he teams up with Maxx Crosby for the 2025 NFL season.

Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel: From Iowa State to Houston Texans - A Dynamic Wideout Duo
NFL

Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel: From Iowa State to Houston Texans - A Dynamic Wideout Duo

Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, former Iowa State teammates, are now making waves as rookie wide receivers for the Houston Texans, showcasing their unbreakable bond and determination to succeed in the NFL.

Aaron Glenn's Vision: Transforming the New York Jets with Discipline and Passion
NFL

Aaron Glenn's Vision: Transforming the New York Jets with Discipline and Passion

Explore how Aaron Glenn's unique approach and disciplined strategies are shaping the New York Jets' future in the NFL.

Brock Purdy's Historic NFL Contract: Expectations and Leadership for the 49ers in 2025
NFL

Brock Purdy's Historic NFL Contract: Expectations and Leadership for the 49ers in 2025

Brock Purdy's record-breaking NFL contract sets high expectations for the 2025 season. Discover how he's leading the 49ers with focus and determination.

Navigating Suspensions: How Michael Hoecht and Larry Ogunjobi are Preparing for the 2025 NFL Season
NFL

Navigating Suspensions: How Michael Hoecht and Larry Ogunjobi are Preparing for the 2025 NFL Season

Michael Hoecht and Larry Ogunjobi of the Buffalo Bills face six-game suspensions for violating NFL's policy on performance enhancing drugs. Discover how they're preparing for the 2025 season.

Jameis Winston Embraces New York: A Perfect Fit for the Giants and the Big Apple
NFL

Jameis Winston Embraces New York: A Perfect Fit for the Giants and the Big Apple

Jameis Winston, the New York Giants' backup quarterback, immerses himself in the culture and history of New York City, showcasing his love for the city and his role with the team.

Kirk Cousins: The Falcons' Unsung Hero in Training Camp
NFL

Kirk Cousins: The Falcons' Unsung Hero in Training Camp

Kirk Cousins shines in his supportive role with the Atlanta Falcons, helping both the defense and rookie quarterback Michael Penix during training camp.

Zach Charbonnet vs. Kenneth Walker III: The Battle for Seahawks' Backfield Dominance
NFL

Zach Charbonnet vs. Kenneth Walker III: The Battle for Seahawks' Backfield Dominance

Explore the intense competition between Zach Charbonnet and Kenneth Walker III for the lead role in the Seattle Seahawks' backfield this NFL season.

Xavier Legette's Journey to Redemption: Overcoming Drops and Proving His Worth in the NFL
NFL

Xavier Legette's Journey to Redemption: Overcoming Drops and Proving His Worth in the NFL

Carolina Panthers' Xavier Legette aims to overcome his rookie struggles with drops and prove his worth as a reliable wide receiver in the 2025 NFL season.

Green Bay Packers' First-Round Picks Face Pivotal Season in 2025
NFL

Green Bay Packers' First-Round Picks Face Pivotal Season in 2025

The Green Bay Packers' recent first-round picks, including Quay Walker, Devonte Wyatt, Lukas Van Ness, and Jordan Morgan, are under pressure to deliver in the 2025 NFL season.

Anthony Richardson's Future with the Colts: Trade Rumors, QB Battle, and What's Next
NFL

Anthony Richardson's Future with the Colts: Trade Rumors, QB Battle, and What's Next

Explore the latest on Anthony Richardson's uncertain future with the Colts, the QB battle with Daniel Jones, and potential trade scenarios.

Top NFL Draft Picks 2025: Jaylen Waddle, TreVeyon Henderson Lead Fantasy Football Targets
NFL

Top NFL Draft Picks 2025: Jaylen Waddle, TreVeyon Henderson Lead Fantasy Football Targets

Discover the top NFL draft picks for the 2025 season, featuring standout players like Jaylen Waddle and TreVeyon Henderson, and their impact on fantasy football.

Top 5 NFL Teams Poised for Decline in 2025: Playoff Hopes in Jeopardy
NFL

Top 5 NFL Teams Poised for Decline in 2025: Playoff Hopes in Jeopardy

Bill Barnwell analyzes five NFL teams likely to decline in the 2025 season, examining key factors that could lead to missed playoffs.

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.