NFL Offseason QB Carousel: Teams Scramble for Starting Jobs (2026)

The NFL offseason is heating up, and the quarterback market is about to get wild! Kelly has the inside scoop on the QB carousel that's set to spin in just two weeks at the NFL Combine.

But wait, there's a twist! It's not just about the young prospects; it's a veteran quarterback frenzy. With the free agent negotiating period opening soon after the combine, agents are gearing up for a battle.

Is Michael Penix Jr. Atlanta's future? The jury is still out. And what about the Vikings' interest in J.J. McCarthy or the Browns' potential move for Shedeur Sanders? These teams are seeking a spark.

Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Arizona, Miami, and the Jets are all in the hot seat. They're desperate for a QB upgrade, and the clock is ticking. But here's where it gets controversial: Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa, both benched last season, are in tricky spots.

Murray's contract has no guaranteed money left, but he's due a hefty roster bonus. Arizona needs to act fast. Meanwhile, the Dolphins are stuck with Tagovailoa's massive $54 million guaranteed salary in 2026. This contract could be a burden, making it harder to find a trade partner.

Geno Smith, Kirk Cousins, and Baker Mayfield are also in the mix, with their own contract complexities. Smith's social media scrub hints at a Las Vegas departure, while Cousins' guaranteed money might force Atlanta's hand. Mayfield, entering his contract year, could seek a trade if an extension isn't on the table.

The intrigue doesn't end there. Daniel Jones, Aaron Rodgers, and Malik Willis are all potential free agents. Will Levis and Anthony Richardson are on the trading block, and Derek Carr might unretire to find a new home. Deshaun Watson, fully healthy, is seeking a fresh start, and the 49ers are shopping Mac Jones.

The Dolphins, in a peculiar spot, might be a landing spot for one of these QBs. But their priority is unloading Tagovailoa's contract, which could be one of the worst in NFL history. Miami might have to pay part of his salary and offer draft picks to make it happen.

So, will the Dolphins find a trade partner? Or will they keep Tagovailoa and hope for a comeback? It's a rock and a hard place for Miami's front office. And this is the part most people miss: the impact of these decisions on the team's future.

What do you think, NFL fans? Who will be the big winners and losers in this QB shuffle? Share your predictions and opinions in the comments below!

NFL Offseason QB Carousel: Teams Scramble for Starting Jobs (2026)

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