2026 NFL Free Agency: Game Plans for 9 Quarterback-Hungry Teams
The 2026 NFL offseason poses significant challenges for teams in need of a starting quarterback. The upcoming draft lacks depth, described as “razor-thin,” while free-agent and trade markets offer limited options. Teams with effective quarterbacks are reluctant to part with them, leaving those without strong signal-callers in a precarious position.
Strategies for Quarterback-Hungry Teams
As the offseason progresses, here are game plans for nine teams struggling with their quarterback situation, including strategies for free agency and the draft.
Atlanta Falcons
Plan A: Sign Joe Flacco to mentor and back up Michael Penix Jr.
Plan B: Sign Tua Tagovailoa as a potential starter.
Penix, recovering from a torn ACL, may not be ready, making Flacco an ideal choice to support him through this transitional phase.
Arizona Cardinals
Plan A: Sign Tua Tagovailoa and retain Jacoby Brissett.
Plan B: Draft Alabama’s Ty Simpson in Round 2 and sign Jimmy Garoppolo.
The Cardinals may need a backup following Tagovailoa’s injury history, and Brissett’s solid performances could provide stability.
Cleveland Browns
Plan A: Commit to Shedeur Sanders or Dillon Gabriel for the season while signing Russell Wilson as a veteran presence.
Plan B: Let Wilson lead the team while delaying a decision on the future.
Building a solid quarterback room is crucial for the Browns as they look towards the future, especially ahead of the 2027 draft.
Indianapolis Colts
Plan A: Rely on a healthy Daniel Jones and secure Tyrod Taylor as a capable backup.
Plan B: Sign Kirk Cousins for short-term effectiveness.
Jones has a transition tag worth $37.8 million but faces recovery challenges from a torn Achilles.
Las Vegas Raiders
Plan A: Draft Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza first overall, with a veteran backup like Wilson or Flacco.
Plan B: Consider trading the first-round pick for multiple selections and draft Ty Simpson later.
This approach allows the Raiders flexibility while ensuring they have a quarterback for the upcoming season.
Miami Dolphins
Plan A: Sign Malik Willis for a short-term fix.
Plan B: Explore Kyler Murray as a reclamation project.
Both quarterbacks present potential short-term and long-term solutions for the Dolphins as they navigate a rebuilding phase.
Minnesota Vikings
Plan A: Sign Kyler Murray to compete with J.J. McCarthy.
Plan B: Consider Geno Smith or Derek Carr, with a focus on Anthony Richardson for the future.
Murray’s high potential makes him an intriguing addition, and the Vikings can use a competitive atmosphere to elevate McCarthy.
New York Jets
Plan A: Acquire 49ers backup Mac Jones if the price is reasonable.
Plan B: Sign a veteran like Marcus Mariota while also drafting Ty Simpson in the second round.
This strategy helps secure a longer-term solution while preparing for the next draft.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Plan A: Sign Aaron Rodgers while also drafting Ty Simpson.
Plan B: Opt for Kyler Murray as a primary option.
If Rodgers remains, the Steelers must develop a young quarterback for sustained success.
As these quarterback-hungry teams approach the 2026 offseason, their decisions can shape their futures. Each must carefully consider both short- and long-term strategies to secure a stronger foundation at the quarterback position.
