The NFL offseason quarterback shuffle is already heating up, and if early signs are any indication, we’re in for a wild ride. With a mix of veteran names, intriguing trade possibilities, and a light draft class at the position, teams in need of a signal-caller will have to get creative-and aggressive.
Let’s start with the free agent market, where Malik Willis and Aaron Rodgers headline the quarterback class. Yes, you read that right-Willis, once a developmental project, is now one of the top options available.
The Miami Dolphins are widely expected to make a push for him, and there’s a logical thread here: Willis has ties to both head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan. That kind of familiarity can go a long way when building an offense.
Rodgers, meanwhile, is expected to stay put in Pittsburgh. After a stint with the Steelers, it seems the future Hall of Famer isn’t quite ready to hang it up or change scenery again. A return to the black and gold would give Pittsburgh some much-needed stability, even if Rodgers isn’t the MVP-caliber player he once was.
When it comes to the NFL Draft, the quarterback crop isn’t exactly overflowing with plug-and-play talent. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza is currently viewed as the only prospect with a clear path to a Day 1 starting job. That puts added pressure on teams needing immediate help under center-and makes the trade market all the more important.
And that brings us to Kyler Murray. The Arizona Cardinals appear ready to turn the page on the former No. 1 overall pick.
Despite some eye-popping career numbers-over 20,000 passing yards, more than 3,100 rushing yards, and 153 total touchdowns-Murray hasn’t been able to take the franchise to the next level. Now, he could be on the move.
Minnesota is emerging as a potential landing spot. According to reports, Murray would be interested in joining the Vikings.
On paper, that’s a significant upgrade over J.J. McCarthy.
Murray’s dual-threat ability could add a whole new dimension to Kevin O’Connell’s offense, especially with weapons like Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison on the outside.
Meanwhile, in Miami, there’s another quarterback situation worth watching. Tua Tagovailoa’s fit in Mike LaFleur’s system makes sense-quick reads, fast releases, and getting the ball into the hands of playmakers like Trey McBride, Marvin Harrison Jr., and Michael Wilson.
But Tua’s $56 million cap hit in 2026 complicates any potential trade. If the Dolphins are serious about moving him, they may need to eat a chunk of that salary to make a deal work.
Don’t forget about Mac Jones, either. The former Alabama standout reminded everyone this season that he’s still capable of starting in this league.
Filling in for Brock Purdy in San Francisco, Jones completed nearly 70% of his passes for over 2,100 yards, 13 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. The 49ers went 5-3 with him under center-solid, if not spectacular.
The Niners have said they aren’t looking to trade Jones, but in this league, plans can change with the right offer. One team to watch?
The New York Jets. They’re in desperate need of a quarterback and can offer Jones a clear path to the starting job, along with a legit No. 1 receiver in Garrett Wilson and a promising offensive line duo in Olu Fashanu and Armand Membou.
It’s not hard to envision Jones thriving in that setup, especially with a full offseason to prepare.
And just when you thought the list of available quarterbacks was set, Derek Carr might be making a surprise return. After stepping away from the game, Carr has now confirmed he’d consider coming back-but only for the right situation.
“Would I do it? Yes.
Would I do it for anybody? Absolutely not,” Carr said.
“I have to be healthy, and I’d want a chance to win a Super Bowl.”
If the Colts have any doubts about Daniel Jones’ health heading into 2026, Carr becomes a very intriguing option. A low-cost trade-perhaps a Day 3 pick-could land them a veteran with playoff experience.
And the supporting cast in Indy isn’t too shabby: Jonathan Taylor in the backfield, Tyler Warren emerging at tight end, and a trio of productive receivers in Josh Downs, Michael Pittman Jr., and Alec Pierce. That’s a group that could help Carr hit the ground running if he chooses to return.
Bottom line: the quarterback market this offseason is a fascinating blend of potential, uncertainty, and opportunity. Whether it’s a veteran like Rodgers or Carr, a reclamation project like Willis or Jones, or a trade swing for someone like Murray or Tagovailoa, teams have options-but not many easy answers. The carousel is spinning, and it’s only just getting started.