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NFL Quarterback Landscape: A Team-by-Team Analysis for 2026
As the 2026 NFL season approaches,the quarterback position remains the most critical factor for success.This article provides a thorough overview of the quarterback situation for all 32 NFL teams, detailing starters, backups, and key storylines heading into the new year. The information is current as of January 20, 2026, and reflects the latest news and developments.
AFC East
Buffalo Bills
Starter: Josh Allen. allen continues to be the focal point of the Bills’ offense, leading a potent passing attack. [[1]]
Backup: Matt Barkley. A veteran presence providing stability.
Miami dolphins
Starter: Tua Tagovailoa. Tagovailoa has solidified his role as the Dolphins’ starter, showcasing improved health and decision-making.
Backup: Jaylen Morris.
New England Patriots
Starter: Drake Maye. The rookie is expected to lead the patriots into a new era. [[2]]
Backup: Bailey Zappe.
New York Jets
Starter: Aaron Rodgers. after recovering from injury,Rodgers is poised to revitalize the Jets’ offense.
Backup: Zach Wilson.
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens
starter: lamar Jackson. Jackson remains a dual-threat force, driving the Ravens’ offensive success.
Backup: Tyler Huntley.
Cincinnati Bengals
Starter: Joe Burrow. Burrow is the cornerstone of the Bengals’ offense, leading them with precision and poise.
Backup: Jake Browning.
Cleveland Browns
Starter: Deshaun Watson. Watson aims to regain his Pro Bowl form and lead the Browns to contention.
Backup: Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Starter: Russell Wilson. Wilson joined the Steelers in the offseason, bringing veteran leadership and experience.
Backup: Kyle pickett.
AFC South
Houston Texans
Starter: C.J.Stroud. stroud had a breakout rookie season and is expected to continue his ascent as a top NFL quarterback.
Backup: Case Keenum.
Indianapolis Colts
Starter: Anthony richardson.Richardson, when healthy, offers a dynamic skillset, but injury concerns remain.
Backup: Gardner Minshew.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Starter: Trevor Lawrence. Lawrence is the key to the Jaguars’ aspirations, with expectations of continued growth.
Backup: Sean Clifford.
Tennessee Titans
Starter: Will Levis.Levis showed promise in limited action and is expected to be the starter.
Backup: Malik Willis.
AFC West
Denver Broncos
Starter: Bo Nix. The Broncos are hoping Nix can provide stability at the quarterback position.
Backup: Jarrett Stidham.
Kansas City Chiefs
Starter: patrick Mahomes. mahomes remains the league’s premier quarterback, leading the Chiefs’ dynasty.
Backup: Blaine Gabbert.
Las Vegas Raiders
Starter: Aidan O’Connell. O’Connell has shown flashes of potential and is expected to lead the Raiders.
Backup: Chase Garbers.
Los Angeles Chargers
Starter: Justin herbert. Herbert is a top-tier quarterback with remarkable arm talent.
Backup: Easton Stick.
NFC East
Dallas Cowboys
Starter: Dak Prescott. Prescott continues to be a reliable leader for the Cowboys.
Backup: Cooper Rush.
New York Giants
Starter: tommy DeVito. DeVito surprised many with his performance and is the current starter.
Backup: Drew Lock.
Philadelphia Eagles
Starter: Jalen Hurts. Hurts is a dynamic dual-threat quarterback leading a strong Eagles team.
Backup: Marcus mariota.
Washington Commanders
Starter: Jayden Daniels. The rookie is expected to be the future of the Commanders’ franchise.
Backup: Sam howell.
NFC North
Chicago Bears
Starter: Caleb Williams.Williams is the highly touted rookie expected to transform the Bears’ offense.
Backup: Tyson bagent.
Detroit Lions
Starter: Jared goff.Goff has proven to be a capable leader, guiding the Lions to success.
Backup: Hendon Hooker.
Green Bay Packers
Starter: Jordan Love. Love has emerged as a promising quarterback for the Packers.
Backup: Sean Clifford.
Minnesota Vikings
Starter: J.J. McCarthy. The Vikings are hoping McCarthy can be their long-term solution at quarterback.
Backup: Nick Mullens.
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons
Starter: Kirk Cousins. Cousins brings veteran experience to the Falcons’ offense.
Backup: Taylor Heinicke.
Carolina Panthers
Starter: Bryce Young. Young is still developing but is expected to improve in his second season.
Backup: matt Corral.
New Orleans Saints
Starter: Derek Carr. Carr aims to lead the Saints to a competitive season