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.

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