The 2026 Quarterback Shuffle: Who's At Risk of Losing Their Job?

The 2026 Quarterback Shuffle: Who's At Risk of Losing Their Job?

The 2026 NFL offseason is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle, full of potential trades, cuts, and dramatic changes at the quarterback position. Teams are weighing their options, and fans are left speculating whether their favorite signal-callers will be under center when the dust settles. As we break down some of the most intriguing situations, let's dive into the changing landscape of the NFL quarterback carousel.

Kyler Murray: A Cardinal in Peril?

Kyler Murray, the former No. 1 overall pick, has experienced a steep decline in performance this season. After returning from a serious injury, his stats reflect a lack of viability as Arizona's QB1. A Total QBR of 44.5 places him among the bottom ranks, and with a guaranteed $39.8 million looming for next season, the Cardinals must contemplate both financial implications and on-field performance.

This uncertainty has drawn questions about whether Murray's time in Arizona might be drawing to a close. During his absence due to injury, backup Jacoby Brissett has provided a glimpse of what might be possible. The Cardinals improved significantly in offensive rankings during this period. Much will depend on how the rest of the season unfolds and what direction the team's management chooses to take.

The Tua Tagovailoa Dilemma

Meanwhile, in Miami, Tua Tagovailoa faces his own challenges. With a $55 million cap hit for 2026, trading him seems impractical; however, the Dolphins must evaluate whether his regression warrants a substantial contract. Tagovailoa's QBR continues to decline, raising concerns about his consistency and the investment Miami has made.

Can Bryce Young Survive in Carolina?

For Bryce Young, the 2023 No. 1 overall pick, the spotlight is equally fierce. He is entering a pivotal season where the Panthers will decide whether to pick up his fifth-year option. The QBR statistics showcase that while Young has shown glimpses of potential, his overall game hasn't progressed to the expected trajectory. After disappointing offensive performances, the Panthers will need to consider if he is the future of the franchise.

An NFL Landscape in Flux

The 2026 offseason is primed to be a decisive moment across the league. Organizations are reevaluating their quarterback situations amid changing dynamics. With rising stars in the draft and established players being pushed out, every team with uncertainty under center may be inclined to pull the trigger on a trade or roster shake-up.

Age vs Youth: The Quarterback Controversy

Veteran quarterbacks like Matthew Stafford, Aaron Rodgers, and younger talents need to prove their worth or risk being moved aside for fresher faces. Both factors are leading to an intriguing offseason ahead. Teams will need to balance the benefits of playing a young, unproven quarterback against the need for immediate results that experienced QBs can provide.

Conclusion: Buckle Up for the Offseason

The excitement surrounding the quarterback carousel in the 2026 NFL offseason is just beginning. As fans, we are on the edge of our seats, eagerly anticipating which players will stay put and who will be moving to new teams and systems. The coming months will determine the next wave of quarterbacks—who will be riding high and who might be sent packing. The real question remains: Who's ready for the challenge, and who will collapse under pressure?