The 2026 NFL quarterback carousel is poised to be a key storyline this offseason, as several notable starters may be traded or see their roles reshaped. Following the conclusion of the latest Super Bowl, attention now shifts to teams considering moves that could redefine their quarterback rooms. The 2026 NFL quarterback carousel predictions suggest a mix of trade activity and fresh starts for some former Pro Bowl signal-callers.
This cycle may revive the careers of two longtime starters under new circumstances, while also giving opportunities to younger quarterbacks emerging from promising beginnings. Teams are evaluating options beyond the free-agent class, which lacks standout options, to find affordable, high-upside players or backup plans, especially as some veterans may be released if trades fail to materialize.
Questions surround whether Kyler Murray or Tua Tagovailoa will head to new teams, if Aaron Rodgers will extend his career, and what lies ahead for Malik Willis after showing growth in Green Bay. Below is an in-depth examination of the projected quarterback moves and scenarios shaping the 2026 NFL offseason.
Reshaping Arizona’s Quarterback Strategy with McCarthy and Cousins
The Arizona Cardinals appear ready to overhaul their quarterback roster under new head coach Mike LaFleur. According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the team is expected to part ways with Kyler Murray before his guaranteed salary increases, which would make retaining him more costly. To manage this transition, Arizona is reportedly exploring a swap with the Minnesota Vikings that would send Murray to Minnesota in exchange for J.J. McCarthy.
McCarthy, entering his third year, offers the Cardinals a cost-effective alternative with a rookie contract amounting to approximately $6 million against the salary cap. This move would alleviate financial strain and provide development potential moving forward. Alongside McCarthy, Arizona could bring in Kirk Cousins to replace Jacoby Brissett, whose compatibility with LaFleur’s system is in question.
Given the perceived talent gap between Fernando Mendoza and other quarterbacks projected in the 2026 draft, the Cardinals are unlikely to use their No. 3 overall pick to select a signal-caller. Instead, the franchise’s strategy centers on developing McCarthy, who is 23 years old, while Cousins serves as a reliable veteran starter if needed.
This plan would allow LaFleur to field an experienced quarterback at the helm while grooming a younger player with upside. McCarthy showed flashes last season that indicate promise, and Cousins’ presence offers short-term stability and leadership during the transition period.
Falcons Weigh Options with Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr.
The Atlanta Falcons face uncertainty about their starting quarterback heading into the offseason. At a recent press conference, Falcons president of football operations Matt Ryan deflected questions regarding Michael Penix Jr.’s role, indicating that the coaching staff would determine the roster moves moving forward.
“Neither of us are the head coach of the football team, so we can’t answer your question on that…I think as we start to get into this process and dive deeper into the roster — how it currently stands, where it’s going in the future — I think those are conversations that’ll be a part of it.” – Matt Ryan, Falcons President of Football Operations
Penix, in his third offseason, is recovering from surgery on a partially torn ACL. With a history of knee issues, the Falcons may seek a dependable backup quarterback regardless of whether Penix remains the starter. Tua Tagovailoa, who like Penix is left-handed, presents a valuable option. His addition would maintain consistency for the Falcons’ receivers and ease any transition between starters and backups.
Tagovailoa boasts a strong recent track record, having led the Miami Dolphins to the playoffs in 2022 and 2023, topping the league in passer rating and passing yards in those respective years. At present, he is regarded as a more effective quarterback than Penix and could provide the Falcons a stronger shot at postseason contention in a division that did not see a winning team in 2025.
If Penix is unavailable as the Week 1 starter, whether due to recovery setbacks or a team decision, Tagovailoa could seize control of the Falcons’ offense in a fresh beginning.
Veteran Presence in Cleveland with Russell Wilson
Russell Wilson’s contract with the New York Giants expires after the 2025 season, and the veteran quarterback has made it clear he is not ready to retire. At 37, Wilson remains confident in his ability to compete, referencing a standout Week 2 game against Dallas where he threw for 450 yards and three touchdowns despite a torn hamstring.
Wilson’s recent seasons show a decline from his peak, but he demonstrated he can still contribute meaningfully when healthy. In 2024, while starting for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Wilson recorded 2,482 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and five interceptions over 11 games. Although the Steelers struggled late in the season, they still reached the playoffs.
The Cleveland Browns’ young quarterbacks—rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders—have had mixed results. Gabriel threw for 937 yards, seven touchdowns, and two interceptions in six starts, while Sanders put up 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions across seven starts. Neither has firmly seized the starting role, and new head coach Todd Monken has avoided naming a definitive starter.
Meanwhile, Deshaun Watson is sidelined recovering from a second Achilles injury, limiting his availability. Wilson’s experience and stability could be vital for the Browns, potentially offering a bridge while the team’s younger signal-callers continue to develop.
Indianapolis Colts Seek Continuity through Daniel Jones
The Indianapolis Colts finished the 2025 season 8-5 with Daniel Jones as their starter but collapsed down the stretch after Jones suffered a torn ACL. Although Indianapolis lost seven consecutive games after his injury, earlier struggles from backup quarterbacks Riley Leonard and 44-year-old Philip Rivers contributed significantly.
Head coach Shane Steichen confirmed that both he and Jones are interested in continuing their partnership. Given the inconsistent production from Anthony Richardson, a 2023 first-round pick who has been durable challenged and less effective, the Colts are likely to prioritize re-signing Jones.
Jones, despite injury concerns, has delivered solid performances across his seven-year career and may be willing to accept a contract below $40 million, factoring in his recovery timeline. The Colts hope Jones can be ready to play by Week 1 of the 2026 season, providing a familiar and capable presence under center.
Miami Dolphins Turning to Malik Willis for Future Leadership
The Miami Dolphins are signaling a shift at quarterback as general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan highlights the need to “find our guy,” suggesting a move away from Tua Tagovailoa, who has started 76 games since 2020. The recent hiring of Jeff Hafley as head coach introduces a new dynamic, as Hafley closely observed Malik Willis while serving as Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator.
Willis’ rookie season with Tennessee showed little promise, as he threw three interceptions across three starts. However, in Green Bay, he improved significantly, throwing six touchdowns with zero interceptions in 11 games. His mobility has been a key asset, but his passing development is what the Dolphins hope to accelerate under offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik and Hafley.
Although Willis may not be a long-term franchise quarterback, Miami looks prepared to give him an opportunity to win the starting job and serve as a bridge while searching for a long-term answer.
Kyler Murray’s Potential New Chapter with Minnesota Vikings
Kevin Seifert of ESPN reported that Minnesota Vikings’ plans regarding J.J. McCarthy are uncertain, which aligns with speculation of a trade deal involving Kyler Murray and McCarthy. Murray’s arrival in Minnesota would rejoin him with elite receiver Justin Jefferson, potentially forming a formidable passing duo capable of high offensive output.
Murray, a two-time Pro Bowler known for his mobility and accuracy, may benefit from a return to an indoor stadium environment that mirrors the one in Arizona. Under coach Kevin O’Connell—who has overseen multiple top-scoring offenses—the quarterback could reach peak performance alongside targets such as Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson.
The Vikings currently face significant salary cap challenges, exceeding the threshold by over $40 million. This fiscal reality increases the likelihood they would pressure Arizona to release Murray’s contract. Should a trade occur, Minnesota would need to restructure contracts and cut veterans like Javon Hargrave, Ryan Kelly, and Aaron Jones to accommodate the quarterback’s salary.
New York Jets Rebuild Offense with Jacoby Brissett and Frank Reich
The New York Jets shook up their coaching staff by dismissing offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand and hiring Frank Reich, who previously orchestrated multiple highly productive offenses from 2017 to 2021. Reich’s record includes guiding teams to top-nine scoring marks and managing difficult scenarios such as Andrew Luck’s unexpected retirement in 2019.
Jacoby Brissett’s connection with Reich spans seven years ago when Brissett started for the Indianapolis Colts and delivered solid results. More recently, Brissett stepped in as Kyler Murray’s substitute, throwing for 3,366 yards, 23 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. With only one year left on his contract, Brissett could be a trade candidate if Arizona’s new staff reshapes the Cardinals’ roster.
This reunion offers the Jets stability and a functional offensive foundation as they rebuild their roster.
Steelers Eye Aaron Rodgers’ Possible Return under Mike McCarthy
The Pittsburgh Steelers, following Mike Tomlin’s resignation after the 2025 season, have hired Mike McCarthy as head coach. McCarthy’s history working with Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay, where they won a Super Bowl, brings hope that Rodgers may continue his playing career.
Rodgers, at 42, has wrestled with retirement considerations but has recently engaged in discussions with McCarthy and wide receiver D.K. Metcalf—which increases the likelihood of his comeback in Pittsburgh. Patience will be key for the Steelers given Rodgers’ history of taking time to decide on career moves.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler highlighted Rodgers’ pride in mentoring the young quarterback Will Howard, reflecting the veteran’s desire to contribute beyond just playing. This mentorship connection, coupled with McCarthy’s arrival, suggests Rodgers could once again lead the Steelers’ offense in 2026.
As the NFL offseason unfolds, the 2026 quarterback carousel is shaping up with multiple teams pursuing strategic changes, new coaching influences, and developmental approaches. Veteran quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers may find fresh opportunities, while younger players such as Malik Willis and J.J. McCarthy seek to solidify their status. The decisions made in the coming months will have a lasting impact on team trajectories across the league.
The Insiders on @NFLGameDay with @TomPelissero, @MikeGarafolo, and @JudyBattista: Is an 18-game season coming? Best-case scenario for Kyler Murray is a release; #49ers expected to get trade calls for Mac Jones; Don’t rule out a Kirk Cousins return to ATL. pic.twitter.com/1ApXvg6Pa3
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 8, 2026
Russell Wilson shares that he tore his hamstring the Friday before the Giants faced the Cowboys in Week 2. Wilson threw for 450 yards and 3 TD in the game
He adds that he wants to continue playing in the NFL: "I'm not blinking" pic.twitter.com/BcAuMhCDFg
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) January 5, 2026
#Colts HC Shane Steichen says he believes QB Daniel Jones will want to come back and the team would like to have him back.
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) January 5, 2026
The "odds are increasing" that Aaron Rodgers returns to the Steelers next season, per @TomPelissero.
NFL GameDay Morning on NFLN pic.twitter.com/AN3U12WJY3
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) February 8, 2026
