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The top five NFL quarterbacks set to be free agents in 2026
As the 2025 NFL season plods on, there’s a quietly intriguing market forming for quarterbacks due to hit free agency in 2026.
Most of these names are unlikely to be long-term franchise cornerstones, but all carry a mixture of experience, upside, or narrative weight that could make them attractive to teams looking for a bridge signal-caller or a veteran mentor.
Here’s a look at the top five QBs headed to NFL free agency in 2026.
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Aaron Rodgers
The 41-year-old future Hall of Famer is currently suiting up for the Pittsburgh Steelers in what he has described as possibly his final season.
Rodgers is putting up respectable numbers in 2025 – he has thrown for 1,853 yards in nine games so far this season, with 18 touchdowns against seven interceptions, giving him a passer rating of 97.2. But age is not on his side, and comments earlier in the year suggested he’s making this a farewell tour.
If he decides against walking away after 2025, he could be an option for a contender seeking savvy veteran leadership, but he likely won’t demand a heavy long-term commitment.
Daniel Jones
Luke Hales/Getty Images
Jones is an interesting case. The 28-year-old is in his first season with the Indianapolis Colts after signing a one-year deal worth $14 million (with incentives).
Through the first half of the 2025 season, Jones has thrown for roughly 2,659 yards, 15 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, while also contributing on the ground, adding five rushing scores. For the Colts, he offers a legitimate starting option, and frankly, they seem “all in” on him long-term.
As a former early draft pick, he still has untapped potential, and a strong finish could make him one of the top-earning free-agent QBs in 2026. The likeliest outcome is that the Colts franchise tag the former New York Giant to ensure he remains in Indianapolis through 2026.
Joe Flacco
Veteran Flacco’s name still pops up in conversations despite his journeyman role. Though much of his prime is long behind him, his experience and steady hand make him appealing as a short-term back-up or locker-room presence.
Flacco’s role in 2025 expanded after a cross-state trade from the Cleveland Browns to the Cincinnati Bengals, where he has stood in for the injured Joe Burrow.
His familiarity with pressure situations – including a Super Bowl win – gives him value to teams that want a reliable veteran without committing to a big contract.
Russell Wilson
Wilson is another intriguing name, but one whose market will surely be severely limited after his 2025 performances.
Following a turbulent period with the Broncos and a stop in Pittsburgh, Wilson signed with the New York Giants ahead of the current season. Now 36, Wilson’s mobility has declined, and he was benched for rookie Jaxson Dart after three games and three defeats.
In Week 11, with Dart out and the Giants overseen by interim head coach Mike Kafka following Brian Daboll’s firing, Wilson was demoted yet further, with Jameis Winston taking up starting duties against the Green Bay Packers.
But Wilson’s veteran savvy and leadership might remain attractive to a team grooming a younger option.
Marcus Mariota
Mariota might not headline free agency splash pieces, but his name often returns in veteran-QB discussions.
The 32-year-old has bounced around since he was the second overall pick for the Tennessee Titans a decade ago. Now seen primarily as a capable backup, Mariota has seen significant game time with the Washington Commanders this season in light of Jayden Daniels’ injury struggles.
The former Oregon Duck has showcased his trademark mobility in 2025 and occasionally impressive throws. Yet erratic decision-making in clutch moments continues to be a feature of his game, meaning he will remain a backup option for any off-season suitors.
