Which NFL teams are most likely to make a quarterback move this offseason?
Quarterback uncertainty, expiring contracts, and rising pressure put these NFL teams in position to make bold moves this offseason.
The 2025-26 NFL season has only just ended, but the quarterback carousel may already be starting to spin.
With a thin rookie quarterback class in the 2026 NFL Draft and several established veterans facing uncertain futures, teams in need of stability under center may have no choice but to get aggressive on the trade or free-agent market.
Here’s a look at the teams most likely to make a quarterback move this offseason, and why.
The 2026 QB carousel is coming: Here’s who could be involved
Arizona Cardinals
Why they’re here: Kyler Murray trade chatter
Arizona is reportedly exploring trade options for Murray, the former No. 1 overall pick. When healthy, he remains one of the league’s most dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks. But durability concerns, contract structure, and a potential philosophical reset could push the Cardinals toward a fresh start.
With Jacoby Brissett under contract and other quarterback options available, it’s more likely than not that Murray will be playing for a different team soon.
Miami Dolphins
Why they’re here: Tua Tagovailoa uncertainty
After being benched late in the season, Tua’s future in Miami is murky. With significant guarantees remaining on his deal, the Dolphins would need to weigh cap implications against a possible reset at the position.
If Miami decides to move on, they could look to either trade for a veteran bridge starter, target a short-term free agent, or surprisingly pivot in the draft despite a weaker QB class.
Minnesota Vikings
Why they’re here: Competitive roster, unclear long-term QB plan
The Vikings have spent the last two seasons trying to develop J.J. McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 draft, but his inconsistent play and injury history have left questions about whether he’s ready to be the long-term answer. Some reports indicate the organization plans to add a veteran quarterback this offseason to bolster the room and push McCarthy for the starting job.
Team sources suggest the Vikings could explore both trade and free-agent options rather than entering 2026 with McCarthy as the unquestioned starter.
Indianapolis Colts
Why they’re here: Daniel Jones extension questions
Daniel Jones revitalized his career in Indianapolis before suffering a torn Achilles late in the season. The Colts must now decide whether to commit long-term or hedge their bets.
If Indy hesitates on a full extension, Jones could become one of the more intriguing names in free agency, and that would open another seat in the carousel.
Green Bay Packers
Why they’re here: Malik Willis’ rising value
After flashing upside in spot duty, Malik Willis may have rebuilt his market value. If another team believes he’s a viable starter, Green Bay could face a decision on whether to extend him, start him, or capitalize on his trade value.
Las Vegas Raiders
Why they’re here: Organizational reset potential
Quarterback Geno Smith, who was acquired last offseason, is also expected to be on his way out after a disappointing year in which he went 2–13 as a starter, throwing for 3,025 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions while leading the league in interceptions and sacks taken.
The Raiders could release Smith to save $8 million but would absorb an $18.5 million dead cap hit. Trading him would be more beneficial financially, saving $26.5 million with no dead money, though finding a trade partner may be difficult given his performance and contract.
Why this year’s QB market could get weird
Unlike some recent offseasons, this quarterback cycle doesn’t feature a clear superstar trade candidate in his prime. Instead, it’s built on former franchise QBs at crossroads, reclamation projects, bridge veterans, and teams trying to maximize competitive windows. That could create a volatile market where multiple moves trigger a domino effect.
If Arizona trades Murray, another team’s starter becomes available. If Miami cuts or moves Tua, that changes the free-agent board. If a contender misses out on one veteran, panic spending could follow. And with a limited rookie class to fall back on, teams desperate for stability may overpay.
The 2026 quarterback carousel may not feature a blockbuster MVP-level name, but it could be one of the most unpredictable markets in years. And based on roster situations, cap dynamics, and competitive pressure, several teams appear ready to tip the first domino.
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