NFL Quarterback Dilemma: 10 Teams, 12 QBs, One Bad Market

Welcome to the 2026 NFL Offseason

As the offseason heats up, it's time for teams to assess their quarterback situation—and unfortunately, the landscape isn't pretty. With a weak draft class featuring only one first-round lock and a free-agent market that's just as lackluster, it's a tough time to be needing a new signal-caller.

The Draft Depressed

The 2026 NFL Draft offers little hope. Apart from the highly touted Fernando Mendoza, who dazzled as the Heisman winner and national champion at Indiana before expectedly going first overall to the Raiders, teams looking for a franchise QB might face a bitter pill. Ty Simpson from Alabama and Garrett Nussmeier from LSU are likely the next best options, but neither commands the hype typically associated with first-round quarterbacks.

This draft mirrors the 2022 draft cycle, where only one quarterback, Kenny Pickett, was taken on the opening night. The risk-reward ratio is skewed heavily towards risk for many teams.

A Dire Free Agency Landscape

Veteran quarterbacks are also scarce, marked by names that fail to excite. I mean, remember last year's slew of free-agent signings like Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones? This year, it looks like teams will settle for rematches at quarterback. Jones is coming off an Achilles injury, and though Aaron Rodgers will still be around, teams aren't exactly lining up to grab him given his age and health concerns.

What's the Strategy?

If the draft and free agency fail to yield that desired QB, the savviest teams will look to the trade market. This is where the names of Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa come into play as prominent trade targets, despite their uncertain values. Murray may be the centerpiece of a new Cardinals regime aiming to revitalize their roster, but teams must tread carefully with his meaty contract, featuring over $125 million remaining, plus a substantial cap hit making him a pricey gamble.

Tagovailoa, though not without impact, also comes with complications. He flourished under coach Mike McDaniel's system but must deal with the realities of a lucrative contract and health uncertainties that make him a variable in trade discussions.

The Teams in the Market

As I assess the landscape, it's evident that several franchises need to make moves. Top contenders include:

• Atlanta Falcons: With Michael Penix Jr. recovering from an ACL tear, they will definitely be seeking a competitive option.
• New York Jets: With questions around Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor, they could pivot towards trading assets for a Murray or Tagovailoa.
• Cleveland Browns: Their eyes should be set on Malik Willis or a capable trade option given their current trajectory.
• Pittsburgh Steelers: if Rodgers returns, they need to reevaluate their QB depth to stay competitive.
• Miami Dolphins: A murky salary cap situation and needing a potential starter might lead them down the trade route.

The QB Wildcard Market

Beyond the big names, a few more players could shake things up. Malik Willis has generated intrigue for teams looking to secure youth and potential upside. There's also speculation about Davis Mills and Will Levis, who are somewhat mixed but might be attractive as a backup or project role.

“Expect surprises in how teams approach what is shaping up as one of the most challenging QB markets in recent memory.”

Conclusion

The upcoming offseason sets the stage for dramatic moves within the QB landscape. Teams with adequate foresight and bold decision-making might just find that diamond in the rough, even in this lackluster market.