2026 Free Agent Quarterbacks: An Overview
The Super Bowl has come and gone, and the NFL offseason is underway. With that, we are approaching the 2026 free agency period. Teams are ramping up their efforts, strategizing on player changes while monitoring available free agents for the upcoming season. Today, let’s dig into the free agent quarterbacks projected for 2026 and attempt to rank them based on what we know.
It’s important to note that this list is limited to quarterbacks set to become free agents. While players like Kirk Cousins and Kyler Murray could end up on this list, they aren’t there just yet. Initially, this class seems to offer few prime starting options, but the landscape can shift rapidly. Daniel Jones is likely to stick with the Colts, and Aaron Rodgers is pondering retirement. Nevertheless, there are several solid backup quarterbacks and potential interim starters available, and some may end up starting this season. Let’s take a closer look.
Daniel Jones
2025 Stats: 13 games played | 261/384 (68%) 3101 yards (8.1 YPA), 19 TD, 8 INT, 100.2 passer rating, 22 sacks (5.42%) | 45 carries, 164 yards (3.6 YPC), 5 rushing TDs
Daniel Jones had a standout final year with the Giants and finished the 2024 season as a backup in Minnesota. He then moved to Indianapolis, where he became the starter. Jones led the Colts to an impressive 8-2 start but struggled in the following three games before sustaining a season-ending injury. He has displayed some fluctuating performance but also impressive playmaking skills. It’s likely he returns to Indianapolis, but if not, he’ll be a top name on the market.
Aaron Rodgers
2025 Stats: 16 games played | 327/498 (65.7%) 3322 yards (6.7 YPA), 24 TD, 7 INT, 94.8 passer rating, 29 sacks (5.5%) | 21 carries, 61 yards (2.9 YPC), 1 rushing TD
There’s still uncertainty about whether Aaron Rodgers will retire after a less than stellar 2025 season. The Steelers might persuade him to stay by bringing in Mike McCarthy. Last season, Rodgers showed some decline in mobility but proved to still be an effective passer if given enough protection. Should he return, he could serve as a bridge starter in a less-than-ideal QB draft class.
Malik Willis
2025 Stats: 4 games played, 1 start | 30/35 (85.7%) 422 yards (12.1 YPA), 3 TD, 0 INT, 145.5 passer rating, 3 sacks (7.89%) | 22 carries for 123 yards (5.6 YPC), 2 rushing TDs
Malik Willis stands out as one of the more compelling free agent quarterbacks. Since trading to the Packers, he’s made steady progress. After stepping in for the injured Jordan Love, Willis has shown promise as an NFL starter, accumulating notable yardage while staying turnover-free. Admittedly, the sample size is small, yet he possesses significant upside and will only be 27 in 2026.
Marcus Mariota
2025 Stats: 11 games played, 8 starts | 139/227 (61.2%) 1695 yards (7.5 YPA), 10 TD, 7 INT, passer rating 86.1, sacks 16 (6.58%) | 50 carries for 297 yards (5.9 YPC), 1 rushing TD
Marcus Mariota has been one of the strongest backup quarterbacks around, although he hasn’t solidified a starting role for himself. He had some good outings filling in for the injured Jaden Daniels, but never really shined. While he may be a solid option for short-term needs, his limitations as a passer are evident.
Mitchell Trubisky
2025 Stats: 4 Games Played | 25/35 (71.4%) 313 Yards (8.9 YPA), 4 TD, 0 INT, Passer Rating 137.0, 0 Sacks
Mitchell Trubisky remains a fascinating figure among free agent quarterbacks. While his earlier career as a starter had ups and downs, he has emerged as a dependable backup for the Bills. In the limited time he played, he appeared effective. Still, the context of playing mainly in garbage time can be worrisome. Yet, he could find himself in contention for a bridging role, drawing interest in free agency.
Joe Flacco
2025 Stats: 6 games played, 4 starts | 80/134 (59.7%) 779 yards (5.8 YPA), 5 TD, 5 INT, 72.9 passer rating, 14 sacks (9.46%) | 27 carries, 143 yards (5.3 YPC), 1 rushing TD
Against all odds, Joe Flacco is still in the mix. Heading into his 41st year, he has maintained his status as a strong backup and could potentially serve as a short-term starter for teams that need one. He’s somewhat more limited now, and he’ll need a solid system to thrive, but if he plays another season, many will be eager to grab him.
Tyrod Taylor
2025 Stats: 6 games played, 3 starts | 69/119 (58%) 831 yards (7.0 YPA), 3 TD, 3 INT, 77.4 passer rating, 10 sacks (7.75%) | 106 yards on 18 carries (5.9 YPC)
Tyrod Taylor has built a reputation as a reliable backup quarterback over the years. While he has some limitations as a starter, he’s effective in keeping things moving on offense and possesses dual-threat capabilities. Now in his 37th year, he may see some decline in his athleticism, yet he remains a solid veteran choice.
Russell Wilson
2025 Stats: 5 games played, 2 starts | 52/67 (77.6%) 426 yards (6.4 YPA), 2 TD, 0 INT, 103.1 passer rating, 8 sacks (10.67%) | 151 yards on 24 carries (6.3 YPC)
Watching Russell Wilson evolve has been quite the journey—from a lively young talent to a Super Bowl champion, and now, an iffy spot starter. His position in Denver shifted dramatically, and he’s currently vying for a starting opportunity with teams like the Steelers and Giants. At this point in his career, he’s become unpredictable. While he still carries potential as a high-end backup, his days as a consistent starter are likely behind him.
Taylor Huntley
Huntley, who previously backed up Lamar Jackson, spent a year with the Dolphins and returned to the Ravens for 2025. He’s a capable backup suited for Baltimore’s system and tends to step in effectively when needed. Although his starting capabilities might be limited, his solid, consistent performance makes him a sought-after backup, particularly for teams using dual-threat quarterbacks.
Sam Howell
Finally, Sam Howell is someone to keep an eye on. As a single-season starter for the Commanders, he had moments that piqued interest. Despite limited playtime as a backup this season, he still has the youth factor, turning 26 in 2026. With ample starting experience, Howell could certainly benefit from further development to cut down turnovers while maintaining his aggressive approach.
