The NFL is a league of constant change, and the quarterback position is no exception. With the 2025 offseason in full swing, several quarterbacks who are currently starters could find themselves relegated to backup roles next season.
Whether due to declining performance, injury concerns, or teams looking for younger options, these signal-callers face uncertain futures. Here are ten quarterbacks who might be holding clipboards instead of starting games in 2026.
1. Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts)
Richardson’s struggles with consistency and injuries have been well-documented. Over two seasons, he has missed significant time and posted a subpar 50.6% completion rate. The Colts have also signed veteran QB Daniel Jones, making it clear that Richardson’s starting job is anything but secure.
2. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans)
Levis has struggled with injuries and inefficiency since entering the league. With Tennessee holding the top pick in the draft and expected to select Cam Ward, Levis appears destined for a demotion.
3. Mason Rudolph (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Rudolph is currently listed as Pittsburgh’s top quarterback amid uncertainty over Aaron Rodgers’ future. However, if Rodgers signs with the Steelers or they draft a young quarterback, Rudolph could quickly find himself back in a backup role.
4. Deshaun Watson (Cleveland Browns)
Watson’s injury woes have left Cleveland in need of stability at quarterback. The Browns are expected to draft a top prospect like Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward, which could push Watson into a secondary role if he struggles to return to form.
5. Justin Fields (New York Jets)
Fields struggled in his starting role last season before being replaced by Russell Wilson in Pittsburgh. Now with the Jets, Fields faces stiff competition and could settle into a backup role if he fails to impress.
6. Kyler Murray (Arizona Cardinals)
While Murray has shown flashes of brilliance, his inconsistent performances and hefty contract have raised questions about his long-term future in Arizona. If he fails to elevate the Cardinals’ offense this season, the team may explore other options, potentially relegating him to a backup role elsewhere.
7. Tua Tagovailoa (Miami Dolphins)
Tagovailoa’s talent is undeniable, but his history of concussions and durability issues make him a risky long-term starter. Miami has already signed Zach Wilson as an intriguing backup option, signaling that the team is preparing for potential instability at the position.
8. Kirk Cousins (Atlanta Falcons)
Cousins has transitioned into a backup role with the Falcons behind Michael Penix Jr., but his hefty contract makes him one of the most expensive backups in the league. While he could still start if needed, Atlanta seems committed to developing Penix as their future.
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9. Derek Carr (New Orleans Saints)
Carr’s refusal to take a pay cut and his middling performances have put him on shaky ground in New Orleans. If he doesn’t deliver this season, the Saints could move on and relegate him to a backup role.
Read More: The 15 Most Disappointing Quarterbacks of the 2024-25 NFL Season
10. Russell Wilson (New York Giants)
Wilson’s career resurgence last season was encouraging but not enough to cement him as a long-term starter for the Giants. With Jameis Winston also on the roster and potential draft picks looming, Wilson could be relegated to a secondary role if he doesn’t perform.
Read More: 10 Backup Quarterbacks Who Led Their Teams to Victory
