2026 NFL QB Rankings: Best, Worst Starting QBs Before Week 1

Lamar Jackson will reportedly miss 6-9 weeks

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2026 NFL QB Rankings: Best, Worst Starting QBs Before Week 1

2026 NFL QB Rankings: Best, Worst Starting QBs Before Week 1 — IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Andrew Buller-Russ · Sportsnaut

Mon, Sep 7, 2026 ·

20 min read

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Finally, a new season of football is upon us. While debates take place during the offseason, those conversations get settled during the regular season and in the playoffs. Now with Week 1 finally here, it's time for an updated look at the 2026 NFL QB rankings.

These rankings take a lot of factors into consideration. Most importantly, how did a player perform last year? Have their conditions changed drastically? Below, you'll find out who the NFL's worst quarterback and the NFL's best quarterback are, and chances are, you won't agree with everyone in between either.

32. Deshaun Watson , Cleveland Browns

NFL: Cleveland Browns at Philadelphia Eagles — Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

After what may have been the NFL's ugliest, least inspiring starting quarterback battle in recent memory, the Cleveland Browns are moving forward with Deshaun Watson for now. Yet, it may not be long until Shedeur Sanders gets another bite at the apple in Ohio. Sure, Watson is a former Pro Bowler, and maybe first-year head coach Todd Monken can work some wonders with his new QB, but odds are this will be his final opportunity to be a starter in the NFL.

31. Malik Willis , Miami Dolphins

NFL: Miami Dolphins at Washington Commanders — Aug 14, 2026; Landover, Maryland, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) is horse-collar tackled by Washington Commanders defensive tackle Byron Cowart (55) during the first half at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

If the new-look Miami Dolphins nailed their player evaluation process, then Malik Willis will be the star quarterback this franchise desperately needs. Yet, considering he's only made six NFL starts and has the NFL's most unproven supporting cast, chances are there will be more growing pains than moments of glory early on. Yet, he does have the potential to be a rapid riser on these NFL QB rankings.

30. Cam Ward , Tennessee Titans

NFL: Tennessee Titans at Jacksonville Jaguars — Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images

Even though he was just the No. 1 overall pick a year ago, it's basically now or never for Cam Ward on the Tennessee Titans . Oddly, instead of the Titans hiring another offensive-minded head coach, they went defense instead. Though, now it's up to former NFL head coach Brian Daboll to maximize Ward's potential. The hope is that better playmakers, with free agency addition Wan'Dale Robinson, plus first-round pick Carnell Tate, can help Ward settle down in Year 2. Just 24, Ward started to show growth at the end of last season, and after an offseason of work, that development is expected to be on full display in 2026.

29. Geno Smith , New York Jets

NFL: New York Jets at Arizona Cardinals — Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images

Not only did Geno Smith lead the NFL with 17 interceptions, but he was also sacked 55 times, more than any other QB in 2025. Yet, now that he's getting a fresh start with the New York Jets under coordinator Frank Reich, there's renewed optimism for this 35-year-old two-time Pro Bowler. People forget that Smith was excellent in Seattle in 2024, and he even started last season with a 362-yard win against the Patriots in 2025. Unfortunately, it was all downhill from there. Still, there's an outside chance that Smith balls out this year.

28. Kirk Cousins , Las Vegas Raiders

NFL: Las Vegas Raiders-Kirk Cousins Press Conference — Candice Ward-Imagn Images

After two down seasons in Atlanta , Kirk Cousins gets a fresh start with the Las Vegas Raiders , but he'll still be watching over his shoulder as No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza lurks in the shadows. Yet, there's real reason to believe the four-time Pro Bowl QB can rejuvenate his career a bit in the desert now that he's reuniting with Klint Kubiak, his former QB coach and offensive coordinator. Though a young, unproven receiving corps could certainly hold the veteran back, leading to a quick plug. Cousins is smart, so perhaps by working his connection with Brock Bowers and feeding Aston Jeanty, he'll be able to buy himself a few more weeks before the Raiders inevitably see what they have in Mendoza.

27. Jaxson Dart , New York Giants

NFL: Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants — Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Jaxson Dart started his rookie season as QB3 with the New York Giants before overtaking a pair of established QBs in Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston . By the end of the season, the first-round pick had amassed 12 starts while totaling 24 touchdowns (15 passing, 9 rushing). While there's still work to be done here, the fact that Dart had 48 or more rushing yards in seven of those games is worth noting. It will be more interesting to see if he can find more success with his arm rather than relying on his athleticism so often. Once Malik Nabers returns to full health, Dart will be expected to test opponents downfield, but his legs can certainly help keep them honest.

26. Tyler Shough , New Orleans Saints

NFL: New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons — Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

The jury is still out on whether he can be a franchise quarterback, but Tyler Shough brings real hope to a New Orleans Saints fanbase that didn't have much to celebrate early last season. The fact that Shough, a second-round rookie, was able to lead his team to a respectable 5-4 record even after they traded away playmaker Rashid Shaheed is something to be excited about. Eventually, Shough will get to work with an improved receiving corps, but with Jordyn Tyson now nursing a serious hamstring injury, it may take a while for this offense to reach its full potential.

25. Tua Tagovailoa , Atlanta Falcons

NFL: Atlanta Falcons at Miami Dolphins — Aug 28, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) throws a pass against the Miami Dolphins during the first quarter of a preseason game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images

Looking to get his career back on track after being pushed out of Miami , now Tua Tagovailoa is starting from scratch with the Atlanta Falcons . While the early signs haven't been positive, Tagovailoa is just a year removed from leading the NFL in completion rate, and two off from an NFL-high 4,624 passing yards. The 28-year-old former Pro Bowler did toss a career-high 15 interceptions last season, but now that he gets to play over half his home games in a dome (Atlanta and New Orleans ), there's renewed hope for Tagovailoa to bounce back under two-time NFL Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski.

24. Jacoby Brissett , Arizona Cardinals

NFL: Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles Rams — Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Last year's version of Jacoby Brissett was not one that the NFL has ever seen before. Playing in his 10th year, Brissett suddenly had a career season. He completed a personal best 64.9% of his passes, while averaging 240 YPG, notching 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions across just 12 starts. Yet now that he's learning a new system, there's no guarantee Brissett will be able to carry over his success. However, the Cardinals have supplied him with some talent, boasting arguably the NFL's best tight end in Trey McBride , a potential superstar with untapped potential in Marvin Harrison Jr. , and 1,000-yard receiver Michael Wilson . The 33-year-old Brissett has the NFL's lowest interception rate of all-time, but can he lead this Cardinals team to victory more often than not?

23. Bryce Young , Carolina Panthers

NFL: NFC Wild Card Round-Los Angeles Rams at Carolina Panthers — Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

The 25-year-old has improved each season. If the former No. 1 overall pick from 2023 can take another step forward, the Carolina Panthers likely won't hesitate to make him their franchise QB via a long-term contract extension. Bryce Young 's supporting cast in 2026 is the best one he's worked with yet, so there's reason to believe he still hasn't reached his peak. The question is, how much better can he become?

22. Aaron Rodgers , Pittsburgh Steelers

Pittsburgh Steelers, Aaron Rodgers — Credit: Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Even though Aaron Rodgers is the NFL's oldest player, there's a belief that the 42-year-old could be rejuvenated by being reunited with coach Mike McCarthy. Pittsburgh keeps working on its offensive line while trying to find more complementary weapons like Michael Pittman . In what he's referred to as his last ride, Rodgers gets one final chance to lead his team back to the playoffs, something he's done 13 times in his 16 years starting nine or more games. Rodgers didn't have a bad year last season, tossing 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions, and he's one of the NFL's all-time greats. Don't count the four-time NFL MVP out quite yet.

21. C.J. Stroud , Houston Texans

NFL: AFC Divisional Round-Houston Texans at New England Patriots — Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

C.J. Stroud burst onto the scene as a rookie but has arguably gone downhill since. Yet even his production last season, a 64.5% completion rate, 3,041 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, wasn't exactly horrible in 14 starts. It's just that the football world has already seen Stroud play so much better. The hope is that a revamped offensive line can lead to more consistency and a higher output.

20. Daniel Jones , Indianapolis Colts

NFL: Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars — Travis Register-Imagn Images

If Daniel Jones fully recovers from last season's Achilles tear, then the Indianapolis Colts can return to having one of the NFL's best offenses. After all, he was playing like an MVP contender in the first half of the season before injuries dampened his effectiveness. But of course, there are questions considering "Indiana Jones" has yet to put together a full season of elite-level performance, and now he's coming back from a serious injury.

19. Kyler Murray , Minnesota Vikings

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray (1) throws a pass during a preseason opening game between the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.

There's some hope that Kevin O'Connell, a sturdy offensive line, and one of the NFL's best receiving corps can help maximize the potential of former No. 1 overall pick Kyler Murray . But of course, there's no guarantee the dual-threat mobile QB stays healthy after playing in just five games last season. If Murray can stay healthy, there's a chance he lands in the MVP conversation, but he has a long way to climb to get there.

18. Baker Mayfield , Tampa Bay Buccaneers

NFL: Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Now headed into a contract year, Baker Mayfield could be poised for a big year. Yet, after losing Mike Evans , there's a chance this train goes off the tracks too. The 31-year-old two-time Pro Bowler had a bit of a down year in 2025, but Mayfield still posted respectable numbers considering two of his top receivers were dealing with injuries. Two years removed from an incredible 4,500-yard, 41-touchdown season, it's clear that Mayfield has what it takes to perform at a really high level; now he just needs to find out how to tap into his peak form again, but he'll need some help from his teammates too.

17. Jayden Daniels , Washington Commanders

NFL: Washington Commanders at Minnesota Vikings — Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

He was electric as a rookie, but not so much as a second-year pro while battling multiple injuries. At his best, Jayden Daniels is easily a top-10 QB. But after being unable to top 233 passing yards in any of his seven starts last season, Daniels enters Year 3 with something to prove. Maybe pairing Stefon Diggs with Terry McLaurin will help Daniels climb back toward the top again.

16. Bo Nix , Denver Broncos

NFL: AFC Divisional Round-Buffalo Bills at Denver Broncos — Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

After back-to-back solid seasons, it's fair to say Sean Payton has found his next franchise quarterback. While Bo Nix may not have the biggest arm, he's a great locker room leader in Denver. He'll operate coach Payton's offense exactly the way it's supposed to be run, and now Jaylen Waddle 's arrival could lead to more explosive plays too. Nix led the NFL with seven game-winning drives last season; maybe the Broncos can stop chasing so much and actually play with the lead this time around. Nix isn't the type who makes frequent mistakes (career-high 12 interceptions in 2024), and he may be ready to take a leap in his game as he enters Year 3.

15. Jordan Love , Green Bay Packers

NFL: NFC Wild Card Round-Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears — Matt Marton-Imagn Images

What's incredible about Jordan Love 's accomplishments is the fact that he's been able to become an above-average QB without ever having a No. 1 receiver. A backyard-style of play combined with an ability to make something out of nothing, Love always keeps defenses on their toes. Just when you think the play is dead, Love uncorks a seed deep downfield to change the entire dynamics of a game. Never tossing more than 11 interceptions in a season, he always seems to give the Packers a chance to win.

14. Brock Purdy , San Francisco 49ers

NFL: NFC Divisional Round-San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks — Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

Perhaps still underrated after arriving as the NFL's 'Mr. Irrelevant' in 2022, Brock Purdy ranks second among active QBs with a career touchdown rate of 6.2%. His 12.7 yards per completion shows that Purdy has a knack for moving the chains and finding moderate gains. Still just 26 years old, Purdy has quickly become one of the NFL's most effective and efficient QBs, and he's never thrown more than 12 interceptions in a season.

13. Jalen Hurts , Philadelphia Eagles

NFL: NFC Wild Card Round-San Francisco 49ers at Philadelphia Eagles — Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Jalen Hurts is a very tricky placement. While he's one of just five active starting QBs with a Super Bowl ring, he's also not asked to do as much for the Philadelphia Eagles . He's never had a 4,000-yard passing season, but obviously Hurts helps make up for it with his legs. While many of his rushing scores come at the goal line, when you're a QB, all that matters is getting the job done, and Hurts continues to check all the boxes.

12. Caleb Williams , Chicago Bears

NFL: NFC Divisional Round-Los Angeles Rams at Chicago Bears — Matt Marton-Imagn Images

There's no question that Ben Johnson helped elevate the play of former No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams last season, bringing even more splash plays to Chicago's offense. Now heading into Year 3, Williams will be expected to take another significant leap. If the 24-year-old can become more consistent from week to week, the Bears could become serious threats.

11. Trevor Lawrence , Jacksonville Jaguars

Last year, in his fifth season since becoming the No. 1 overall pick, Trevor Lawrence put forth his best effort yet, which perhaps to no coincidence, came under the tutelage of Liam Coen and a star-studded receiving corps. Now Lawrence looks to build off that momentum after a career-high 29 passing touchdowns and 13 wins. After a 60.9% completion rate and a career-high 41 sacks, there are some clear areas where the 26-year-old can still improve.

10. Sam Darnold , Seattle Seahawks

NFL: Super Bowl LX-Seattle Seahawks at New England Patriots — Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

It's fair to argue that the reigning Super Bowl champion could be a bit higher. Yet, there's also no denying that Sam Darnold was elevated a bit by having one of the NFL's best receivers to throw to in Jaxon Smith-Njigba . Klint Kubiak's scheme clearly didn't hurt either. Now that the target is on his back, it's up to Darnold to find a way to maintain his momentum while avoiding those turnover-worthy plays that have plagued his past. Averaging 12.5 YPC completion last season, Darnold's Seahawks were one of the most exciting teams in the NFL. Now let's see it again.

9. Justin Herbert , Los Angeles Chargers

NFL: AFC Wild Card Round-Los Angeles Chargers at New England Patriots — David Butler II-Imagn Images

No playoff wins are the big knock on Justin Herbert at this stage in his career. One would think Jim Harbaugh would be capable of helping the Chargers overcome that sadness, and now he's equipped Mike McDaniel to help him figure it out. Now with McDaniel aboard, continued improvement from a young receiver corps and a remade offensive line, Herbert could be in line for his best season yet.

8. Patrick Mahomes , Kansas City Chiefs

NFL: Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs — Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

If this list was based on accomplishments or even a player's ceiling, then Patrick Mahomes would land in the top-three. Yet, after a down season, he now needs to prove he's not only healthy, but capable of shredding defenses with the group of pass-catchers he currently has. Still, with three Super Bowl rings, he's not one who should be counted out at any point, in any game. Mahomes could very well end up back at the top of this list, but he has some climbing to do for now.

7. Dak Prescott , Dallas Cowboys

While he's frequently criticized for leading the Cowboys to just a 2-5 record in the playoffs, Dak Prescott is in the next class, just short of the most elite QBs in the NFL. Armed with two of the game's greatest receivers, possibly forming the best 1-2 tandem in the NFL, Prescott's Cowboys will once again be ready to launch when the season kicks off. Barring injury, he'll remain a top-10 QB all season long.

6. Jared Goff , Detroit Lions

NFL QB Rankings — Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

One of the NFL's most prolific passers today, Jared Goff has more than lived up to his potential as a former No. 1 overall pick. Even though the Lions didn't reach the playoffs last season, Goff posted his fourth consecutive season with 4,400 or more passing yards while also throwing at least 29 touchdowns all four years. He's been on a heater, and the 31-year-old won't be slowing down any time soon.

5. Lamar Jackson , Baltimore Ravens

NFL: Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers — Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

It's fair to say Lamar Jackson wasn't at his best last season. Still, even though the two-time NFL MVP wasn't in peak form, even that version is still better than the majority of the league's QBs. still performed well when healthy. His 7% touchdown percentage was the second-best of his career, and he was averaging an NFL-high 13.3 yards per completion. However, he lacked explosiveness as a runner, averaging a career-low 26.8 yards per game. The hope is that Jackson will return to peak form in all aspects in 2026.

4. Joe Burrow , Cincinnati Bengals

Syndication: The Enquirer — Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Cincinnati Bengals only got eight games out of Joe Burrow last season, but he played with more motivation than ever. The Bengals haven't returned to the postseason since 2022, so that competitive fire has only grown, except now he has more confidence in his supporting cast too. It could lead to a more calculated mindset from Burrow as the Bengals have a chance to be true contenders again.

3. Drake Maye , New England Patriots

Even though he just turned 24, Drake Maye is already an elite NFL QB. What he did last season with self-proclaimed No. 2 receiver Stefon Diggs operating as his top target was nothing short of extraordinary. Now the Patriots have upgraded their depth chart, which means Maye has a good chance of continuing his success. Though, it may not be easy to be so efficient, completing an NFL-leading 72% of his passes again. If Maye can carry over his momentum from last season, then the Patriots will have no trouble being contenders again.

2. Josh Allen , Buffalo Bills

If Josh Allen had the scheme, coach, and weapons that the reigning MVP had, then he could put up numbers that are just as good. Of course, the Buffalo Bills haven't provided their MVP with all of those things, but now that his pal Joe Brady is running the show, we could see the dual-threat weapon truly get unleashed. Adding DJ Moore to a young and improving receiving corps should help Allen become a more potent passer too. He could be in for a monster year.

1. Matthew Stafford , Los Angeles Rams

NFL: NFC Championship Game-Los Angeles Rams at Seattle Seahawks — Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

Amazingly, last season's NFL's best quarterback is also the second-oldest starter in the league. Of course, the 38-year-old's performance could slip a bit, and that possibility is surely a factor in the Los Angeles Rams making Ty Simpson a first-round pick. Yet, Matthew Stafford put up a ridiculous 46 passing touchdowns to go with 4,707 passing yards last season. He'll still be operating in one of the league's best schemes with Sean McVay operating the controls, while having Puka Nacua and Davante Adams making plays downfield. Though, potential discipline for Nacua could definitely impact Stafford's overall upside.