If there’s one thing the Pittsburgh Steelers, Minnesota Vikings, and New York Jets all share heading into the 2026 offseason, it’s a quarterback situation that feels more like a question mark than a cornerstone.
Pittsburgh’s Rodgers Gamble Nearing Its Final Chapter
Let’s start in Pittsburgh, where the Steelers rolled the dice on Aaron Rodgers this past offseason. It was a bold move-bringing in a 41-year-old future Hall of Famer to stabilize a position that’s been in flux since Ben Roethlisberger retired. But now Rodgers has turned 42, and while he hasn't officially closed the door on 2026, he’s hinted that next season could be his last.
That leaves the Steelers in a familiar spot: staring down a potential void under center. If Rodgers does walk away, Pittsburgh will have to decide whether it’s time to hand the keys to Will Howard, stick with Mason Rudolph, or look outside the building for answers.
Jets’ Fields Experiment Likely Over After One-and-Done Struggle
Over in New York, the Justin Fields era already looks like it’s coming to an end before it ever really got started. The Jets brought him in to be the guy this season, but after a string of underwhelming performances, Fields was benched in favor of veteran Tyrod Taylor.
That move speaks volumes. It’s hard to imagine the Jets running it back with Fields in 2026.
The Jets have a high first-round pick coming in April, and drafting a quarterback is certainly on the table. But if they decide to go the veteran route-or need a bridge while grooming a rookie-there’s a name floating around that could fit the bill.
Vikings’ McCarthy Struggles Force Tough Questions
The Vikings, meanwhile, are trying to figure out what they have in J.J. McCarthy.
Minnesota moved on from Sam Darnold in the offseason, betting on the rookie to grow into the starting role. But McCarthy has struggled mightily, and now the team is left wondering whether he’s the long-term answer.
If the Vikings decide they need a more experienced hand to either push McCarthy or take over altogether, they’ll likely be in the market for a veteran with upside.
Enter Kyler Murray: A Trade Chip in Arizona’s Rebuild
That brings us to Kyler Murray, whose situation in Arizona is becoming harder to ignore. He’s currently on injured reserve with a foot injury, but even before that, there were signs that his time with the Cardinals might be winding down. Jacoby Brissett was reportedly outplaying him in practice, and there was talk of a potential benching.
Now, multiple reports suggest a split between Murray and the Cardinals is not just possible-it’s likely. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, both sides are expected to have serious discussions this offseason about their future together, but the prevailing belief around the league is that a separation is coming.
The Cardinals’ front office, led by head coach Jonathan Gannon and GM Monti Ossenfort, may be ready to move on. There’s been lingering skepticism from ownership about Murray’s leadership and preparation-something that came into public view with the now-infamous “homework clause” in his contract. If Gannon and Ossenfort want to stake their futures on a quarterback of their own choosing, moving Murray could be the first step.
The Contract Hurdle-and Opportunity
Of course, any team looking to trade for Murray will have to navigate his massive contract. He’s owed $230.5 million overall, with $36.8 million guaranteed in 2026.
That’s a significant chunk of change. But here’s the silver lining: after 2026, there’s no guaranteed money left on the deal.
That makes it a little easier to stomach for teams that might see Murray as a short-term solution with long-term upside.
Arizona’s willingness to eat some of that money could also impact the return they get in a trade. The more they’re willing to absorb, the better the draft capital they can expect in return.
How Murray Fits with the Steelers, Vikings, and Jets
So where could Murray land? Let’s break it down.
In Minnesota, he’d be an intriguing fit. If the Vikings still believe in McCarthy’s potential but want a proven starter to compete with him, Murray fits the mold.
Yes, he’d be expensive insurance-but he’s also a two-time Pro Bowler with big-play ability. If McCarthy doesn’t take a leap, Murray could easily take the reins.
For the Steelers, interest in Murray would hinge on Rodgers’ decision. If Rodgers retires and Pittsburgh isn’t sold on Howard as the future, Murray could step in and lead a competitive team right away. In a quarterback room with Howard and Rudolph, Murray would likely emerge as the starter.
Then there’s the Jets. They’re in a bit of a reset mode, and while drafting a QB seems likely, nothing’s guaranteed.
Murray could serve as a bridge-someone who can keep the offense afloat while a rookie develops or while the front office figures out its long-term plan. The question for New York is whether they’re willing to give up draft assets during a rebuild for a player who might only be around for a year or two.
Final Word
There are a lot of moving parts here, but one thing is clear: Kyler Murray’s name will be one to watch this offseason. Whether it’s Minnesota, Pittsburgh, or New York-or another team entirely-there’s going to be interest. For three franchises still searching for stability at quarterback, a player like Murray, despite the baggage and the price tag, might be worth the gamble.