The QB Carousel: Solving the AFC and NFC’s Biggest Signal-Caller Crises

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As the 2026 NFL Combine concludes and free agency looms (set to begin March 11), the league is bracing for a “QB Carousel” that could be the most volatile in years. With a mix of retiring veterans, polarizing trade targets, and a high-stakes draft class, several front offices are under immense pressure to find their next franchise leader.

Here is a look at the teams with the biggest questions under center and the moves they are likely to make.

The “Clean Slate” Teams: Drafting for the Future

For these franchises, the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh represents the only viable path forward.

Las Vegas Raiders (Pick No. 1): The Raiders are the frontrunners for Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza. After a “flawless” combine interview process, Mendoza is widely expected to be the top pick. The Raiders have struggled for stability since the Derek Carr era, and Mendoza is viewed as the “Heisman-caliber” reset the franchise desperately needs.
New York Jets (Pick No. 2): The Jets are in a fascinating spot. While they have the draft capital to take Oregon’s Dante Moore or Alabama’s Ty Simpson, rumors are swirling that they may look for a veteran “bridge” to allow a rookie to sit. Rumors at the Combine even suggested a shocking pursuit of a Derek Carr un-retirement/trade or a deal for Kyler Murray.
Arizona Cardinals (Pick No. 3): Arizona appears ready to move on from Kyler Murray. If the Jets pass on Dante Moore, he is the “dream selection” for a Cardinals team looking to reset their culture under a new coaching staff.

The Trade Market: High-Risk, High-Reward

For teams that feel they are “one player away,” the trade market offers established—albeit expensive—talent.

Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons are the team to watch for Tua Tagovailoa. With the Dolphins reportedly ready to move on, Tua is linked to Atlanta as a “low-risk, high-reward” option on a prove-it deal. This would allow Michael Penix Jr. more time to fully recover from his ACL injury without being rushed into action.
Miami Dolphins: After benching Tua for Quinn Ewers late last season, the Dolphins are looking for a total reboot. They have been linked to Kyler Murray, whose “squirrely” playstyle is seen as a tantalizing fit for Mike McDaniel’s speed-heavy offense (assuming McDaniel remains in place).
Pittsburgh Steelers: With Mike McCarthy now at the helm, the Steelers are hunting for a “post-Roethlisberger” identity. If Aaron Rodgers doesn’t return for one final run, Pittsburgh is a top landing spot for Malik Willis, who rehabbed his image in Green Bay and is now considered the “mystery box” of the 2026 class.

The “Bridge” Solutions: Free Agency & Retreads

Not every team can land a superstar. Some are simply looking for a steady hand to navigate the 2026 season.

Indianapolis Colts: The Colts are expected to prioritize re-signing Daniel Jones. Before his Achilles injury, Jones was playing at an MVP-caliber level under Shane Steichen. Because the Colts traded away draft picks for Sauce Gardner, they lack a high-draft pathway, making a three-year deal for Jones the most logical move.
Veteran Stopgaps: Jacoby Brissett is currently the most popular name in the “bridge” market. Both the Jets (under OC Frank Reich) and the Falcons (under HC Kevin Stefanski) have shown interest in bringing in the veteran to provide a professional floor for their QB rooms.

Key Dates to Watch

Event	Date	Significance
Legal Tampering Period	March 9, 2026	Teams can begin negotiating with free agents like Malik Willis and Tyrod Taylor.
Start of League Year	March 11, 2026	Trades for Kyler Murray or Tua Tagovailoa can be officially processed.
NFL Draft (Pittsburgh)	April 23–25, 2026	The moment Mendoza, Simpson, and Moore find their new homes.