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2026 NFL Draft: 9 Teams That Could Target a Quarterback Next April
- Brandon Lundberg
- Aug 14
- 3 min read
Quarterback demand shapes every NFL Draft class, and the 2026 edition could be one of the busiest in recent memory at the position. Based on projected 2025 finishes, roster outlooks, and expiring contracts, at least ten NFL teams could be searching for their next franchise signal-caller next April. Some situations hinge on young passers taking the next step; others already have a bridge quarterback in place.
While there’s no guarantee Arch Manning will declare—despite the buzz—this year’s class remains loaded with talent. LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, Clemson’s Cade Klubnik, Penn State’s Drew Allar, and South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers headline a group that could spark a first-round QB surge.
In this analysis, we break down the teams most likely to target a franchise quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Projected QB-Needy Teams for the 2026 NFL Draft
Here’s a look at each potential QB-needy team, ordered by projected draft position.
New Orleans Saints – Pick 1
Likely picking at the very top. If Arch Manning declares, Manning-to-New-Orleans will be the defining storyline of the draft season.
Cleveland Browns – Pick 2
If Shedeur Sanders delivers in 2025, they could stay the course. If not, a top-two pick offers a chance at a long-term upgrade.
New York Giants – Pick 4
Jaxson Dart’s development is the swing factor. A top-five pick would make a QB change very possible.
New York Jets – Pick 5
Justin Fields must prove he’s the long-term answer. If not, the Jets could reset with a top-tier rookie.
Carolina Panthers – Pick 6
Bryce Young’s 2025 campaign is critical. If he fails to elevate the offense, Carolina may reinvest in the QB position.
Indianapolis Colts – Pick 7
Anthony Richardson’s durability and growth remain question marks. The Colts could be forced to reconsider their QB plan.
Las Vegas Raiders – Pick 8
Geno Smith is a competent bridge option, but not a long-term franchise cornerstone.
Los Angeles Rams – Pick 12
Matthew Stafford is nearing retirement. The Rams could finally prioritize a young successor.
Seattle Seahawks – Pick 13
Sam Darnold is more of a placeholder than a long-term answer. Seattle could enter the QB market if 2025 shows no clear path forward. Jalen Milroe is also on the roster.
Pittsburgh Steelers – Pick 16
Aaron Rodgers is a one-year rental. This pick could be used to secure a future franchise leader.
Top Quarterbacks in the 2026 NFL Draft Class
Here’s a look at the top draft-eligible QBs based on current summer grading.
Elite arm talent, mobility, and off-platform accuracy. Ideal fit for a modern pro-style offense with movement and layered route concepts.
Polished pocket passer with top-tier arm strength and rhythm passing ability. Perfect for West Coast or timing-based systems.
Dual-threat with a live arm and RPO experience. Needs improved post-snap decision-making to maximize upside.
Prototypical size and deep-ball velocity. Best in vertical passing schemes with heavy play-action.
Rare physical tools and dual-threat explosiveness. Projects best in vertical or play-action-heavy systems with designed QB runs.
Fernando Mendoza – Indiana – 6’5”
High-level arm strength and touch downfield. Thrives in pro-style or spread offenses with vertical progression reads.
Sam Leavitt – Arizona State – 6’2” 200
Quick-trigger passer with dual-threat functionality, thriving in spread systems with designed QB runs and layered concepts. Poised, athletic, and efficient, with late 1st-round upside in the right system.
