NFL Starting QBs 2026: Way-Too-Early Predictions for All 32 Teams
Super Bowl 60 is officially in the books after the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots 29-13. Now, the focus shifts to the 2026 NFL season – and as always, the biggest question across the league is:
Who will be starting at quarterback?
This offseason has already brought massive change. Ten teams hired new head coaches, and 21 franchises will have new offensive coordinators. With so much turnover, the quarterback carousel could spin again – even if the 2026 draft class lacks depth at the position.
Veterans like Kirk Cousins, Kyler Murray, Tua Tagovailoa, and even Derek Carr could be on the move. So let’s dive into a way-too-early prediction for every team’s starting quarterback in 2026.
AFC East
Buffalo Bills – Josh Allen
No drama here. The former MVP remains Buffalo’s franchise cornerstone as he continues chasing a Super Bowl.
Miami Dolphins – Malik Willis
A fresh coaching staff could take a swing at Willis, whose limited action in Green Bay showed promise. He may finally get a real shot to start.
New England Patriots – Drake Maye
Maye’s breakout 2025 campaign proved he’s the future. Despite a tough Super Bowl loss, New England is fully committed.
New York Jets – Kyler Murray
With cap space and draft assets, the Jets could gamble on Murray if Arizona makes him available.
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens – Lamar Jackson
Still elite. As long as he’s healthy, he’s the guy.
Cincinnati Bengals – Joe Burrow
Cincinnati’s success hinges on Burrow staying on the field.
Cleveland Browns – Kirk Cousins
Cap constraints make Cousins a realistic veteran bridge option.
Pittsburgh Steelers – Aaron Rodgers
If Rodgers delays retirement one more year, Pittsburgh could run it back.
AFC South
Houston Texans – C.J. Stroud
A rough playoff stretch doesn’t erase his talent. Expect a rebound.
Indianapolis Colts – Daniel Jones
Jones revived his career in Indy and is likely to return if his Achilles recovery stays on track.
Jacksonville Jaguars – Trevor Lawrence
Lawrence continues to develop into one of the league’s most consistent starters.
Tennessee Titans – Cam Ward
Tennessee won’t give up on its recent No. 1 pick after just one season.
AFC West
Denver Broncos – Bo Nix
Despite inconsistency, Nix fits Sean Payton’s system and delivered wins.
Kansas City Chiefs – Patrick Mahomes
Even coming off an injury, Mahomes remains the gold standard.
Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza (Rookie)
Projected No. 1 overall pick and franchise reset candidate.
Los Angeles Chargers – Justin Herbert
If L.A. improves protection, Herbert could reach another level.
NFC East
Dallas Cowboys – Dak Prescott
Prescott bounced back statistically. The defense will determine Dallas’ ceiling.
New York Giants – Jaxson Dart
The young dual-threat showed flashes and now gets a bigger opportunity.
Philadelphia Eagles – Jalen Hurts
Steady, efficient, and proven. Philly isn’t changing course.
Washington Commanders – Jayden Daniels
Injuries slowed him, but Washington believes in his long-term upside.
NFC North
Chicago Bears – Caleb Williams
The Bears may finally have their franchise quarterback.
Detroit Lions – Jared Goff
Goff silenced critics after coaching changes and remains firmly in control.
Green Bay Packers – Jordan Love
Love continues to grow and keeps Green Bay competitive.
Minnesota Vikings – Derek Carr
If Carr unretires, Minnesota could bring him in to compete with J.J. McCarthy.
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons – Michael Penix Jr.
Atlanta likely gives its young QB another season to prove himself.
Carolina Panthers – Bryce Young
Progress in 2025 suggests Carolina stays patient.
New Orleans Saints – Tyler Shough
The rookie showed enough to earn another season as a starter.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Baker Mayfield
Solid, steady, and still the best option in Tampa.
NFC West
Arizona Cardinals – Tua Tagovailoa
If Arizona moves on from Kyler Murray, Tagovailoa could be a buy-low candidate.
Los Angeles Rams – Matthew Stafford
Fresh off an MVP season, Stafford returns for another run.
San Francisco 49ers – Brock Purdy
Still Kyle Shanahan’s trusted leader.
Seattle Seahawks – Sam Darnold
After winning Super Bowl 60, Darnold isn’t going anywhere.
Final Thoughts
Quarterback movement defines every NFL offseason. While some teams have stability, others could see major changes depending on trades, draft results, and health.