As the 2026 NFL season looms, the importance of backup quarterbacks cannot be overstated. With injuries being a common occurrence in the league, having a reliable second-string quarterback is crucial for any team's success. The backup quarterback often becomes a pivotal figure, as demonstrated in the previous season when the Denver Broncos had to rely on Jarrett Stidham during the AFC Championship Game due to an injury to starter Bo Nix. This highlights the need for teams to have capable backups ready to step in when necessary.
The landscape of backup quarterbacks across the NFL for the upcoming season features a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talents. Here’s a detailed overview of the backup quarterbacks for all 32 teams as they prepare for the 2026 season.
Arizona Cardinals: Carson Beck is expected to take on the backup role, stepping into a transition year for the Cardinals following Kyler Murray's departure. With veteran Jacoby Brissett as the starting quarterback, Beck, a rookie, may see action as the team evaluates its future.
Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons have yet to finalize their starting quarterback, leaving their backup situation unclear. Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. are both viable options who could see significant playing time in 2026.
Baltimore Ravens: Tyler Huntley returns as the backup to Lamar Jackson. Huntley has proven to be a competent backup, having made a Pro Bowl appearance in 2022 despite limited starts.
Buffalo Bills: Kyle Allen is set to back up Josh Allen. Although he hasn't started a game since 2022, Allen brings experience to the Bills' quarterback room.
Carolina Panthers: Kenny Pickett, previously a starter for the Pittsburgh Steelers, now serves as the backup to Bryce Young. His experience could be invaluable if called upon.
Chicago Bears: Tyson Bagent, who impressed as an undrafted free agent, will back up Caleb Williams. Bagent's performance in the previous season has solidified his position.
Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Flacco continues his career as the backup in Cincinnati. The former Super Bowl MVP remains a reliable option, having started several games last season.
Cleveland Browns: Shedeur Sanders has emerged as the most promising backup behind Deshaun Watson. With the Browns' quarterback situation being unpredictable, Sanders could see playing time.
Dallas Cowboys: Sam Howell takes over as the backup to Dak Prescott, following the release of Joe Milton III.
Denver Broncos: Jarrett Stidham returns as the backup after stepping in during the playoffs last season.
Detroit Lions: Joshua Dobbs is the new backup for Jared Goff, providing experience and stability.
Green Bay Packers: Tyrod Taylor has been signed to back up the newly established starter, following Malik Willis' departure.
Houston Texans: Davis Mills remains as the backup after a strong showing in limited starts last season.
Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Richardson, a former first-round pick, will serve as the backup, giving him time to develop under the current starter.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Quinn Ewers joins the team as the backup to Trevor Lawrence after a trade with the Dolphins.
Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Fields has been added as a backup, providing a different skill set than starter Patrick Mahomes.
Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, the top pick in the draft, will learn behind Kirk Cousins as the backup.
Los Angeles Chargers: Trey Lance continues as the backup to Justin Herbert, looking to make an impact after limited opportunities.
Los Angeles Rams: Stetson Bennett is expected to back up Matthew Stafford, while rookie Ty Simpson develops.
Miami Dolphins: Kyle McCord has been brought in as the backup following a series of roster changes.
Minnesota Vikings: Carson Wentz is the backup to Kyler Murray, providing veteran experience.
New England Patriots: Tommy DeVito will back up rookie sensation Drake Maye.
New Orleans Saints: Spencer Rattler takes on the backup role after starting last season.
New York Giants: Jameis Winston remains the lead backup, known for his high-volume passing.
New York Jets: Cade Klubnik, a fourth-round draft pick, is set to back up Geno Smith.
Philadelphia Eagles: Tanner McKee has emerged as the backup behind Jalen Hurts after a competitive training camp.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Mason Rudolph is expected to back up Aaron Rodgers, offering stability to the veteran quarterback.
San Francisco 49ers: Mac Jones serves as the backup to Brock Purdy, having previously started multiple games.
Seattle Seahawks: Drew Lock returns as the backup, providing depth behind Sam Darnold.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jalon Daniels, an undrafted rookie, has earned the backup spot behind Baker Mayfield.
Tennessee Titans: Mitchell Trubisky will back up Cam Ward, bringing extensive starting experience.
Washington Commanders: Marcus Mariota returns as the backup, known for his dual-threat capabilities.
As teams finalize their rosters for the 2026 NFL season, the role of backup quarterbacks remains critical. With injuries being a common theme in the league, having a dependable QB2 can be the difference between a successful season and a missed opportunity.
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