The 2026 NFL quarterback carousel is starting to take shape as teams evaluate their current signal-callers. With the midway point of the 2025 season behind us, questions arise regarding the futures of several prominent quarterbacks. Will Kyler Murray remain with the Arizona Cardinals? Is Tua Tagovailoa on his way out in Miami? And what about Bryce Young in Carolina? As the draft approaches, organizations are preparing to make changes in hopes of securing their next franchise quarterback.
The spotlight is on 11 starting quarterbacks facing uncertain futures, with some likely to be replaced and others potentially battling for their spots. A closer look reveals the status of these quarterbacks, their performance this season, and the implications of their contracts on potential transitions.
Quarterbacks on the Hot Seat
First, we consider those quarterbacks in the most precarious positions. It seems unlikely that three specific veterans will retain their starting roles for the 2026 season, though one may still serve as a backup.
Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals
Murray”s situation in Arizona has shifted dramatically. After a promising offensive showing in previous seasons, the Cardinals” performance faltered early in 2025, leading to increased pressure on Murray. His Total QBR of 44.5 ranks him 25th among 33 quarterbacks. Following a foot injury, Jacoby Brissett stepped in and led the team to improved offensive efficiency, raising questions about Murray”s future. The Cardinals could see substantial cap savings by trading or releasing him, making it a pivotal offseason for both Murray and the organization.
Geno Smith, Las Vegas Raiders
Geno Smith”s tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders has been disappointing, as evidenced by his Total QBR of 34.7, placing him 31st in the league. The lack of a healthy offensive line and the struggles of the team”s new offensive coordinator have contributed to his performance issues. The Raiders could free up significant cap space by moving on from Smith, particularly with a potential trade or release on the table.
Justin Fields, New York Jets
Fields” time as the Jets” starter is in jeopardy, especially after a lackluster performance against the Cleveland Browns. He managed to keep his job temporarily due to an injury to Tyrod Taylor, but his overall play has not inspired confidence. With the Jets accumulating draft picks for a quarterback overhaul, Fields may find himself elsewhere unless he can significantly improve.
Veteran Quarterbacks Facing Retirement
Two seasoned quarterbacks are also at a crossroads, having previously contemplated retirement. Both Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams and Aaron Rodgers of the Pittsburgh Steelers have enjoyed illustrious careers, yet their futures remain uncertain as they navigate 2025.
Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams
Stafford has enjoyed a strong season with a Total QBR of 68.7, ranking seventh overall. Despite flirtations with retirement, his performance has kept the Rams engaged in his future. The team would prefer to retain Stafford, especially if he continues to play at a high level, but contract negotiations could complicate matters if he seeks a raise.
Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh Steelers
Rodgers has faced challenges since joining the Steelers, yet he remains the starter. With no future guarantees on his contract post-2025, the Steelers may find themselves evaluating their quarterback situation as they consider their options moving forward.
As the 2026 season approaches, organizations will need to weigh their options carefully regarding their quarterbacks. With the potential for a significant influx of new talent in the draft, the landscape of the NFL could change dramatically in the coming months.
