Even though the 2026 draft just wrapped up with limited quarterback movement, next year’s class in Washington, D.C., is shaping up to be one of the deepest and most talented in recent memory. Analysts project as many as five quarterbacks could go in the first round, led by standouts like Texas’ Arch Manning, Oregon’s Dante Moore, Ohio State’s Julian Sayin, and Notre Dame’s CJ Carr.
With that talent on the horizon, several teams are already thinking ahead. Here is a look at 10 franchises that could be in prime position to draft a quarterback in 2027.
10. Indianapolis Colts Daniel Jones is on a two-year deal with no guaranteed money in 2027. If he struggles coming off a torn Achilles, the Colts could reset at the position despite the dead money, especially if a new coaching staff wants a full rebuild.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Baker Mayfield is in a contract year. While an extension is likely, there is no clear successor on the roster. If Tampa Bay moves on, they would enter 2027 needing a long-term answer.
8. New Orleans Saints Tyler Shough showed promise as a rookie in 2025 but must prove he is the long-term starter in 2026. If he takes a step back, the Saints could be drafting a quarterback for the fourth time in five years.
7. Atlanta Falcons Michael Penix Jr. is recovering from another ACL injury. With Tua Tagovailoa on a short-term deal, Atlanta may look for a fresh quarterback to build around if neither works out.
6. Minnesota Vikings Kyler Murray is on a prove-it contract. Whether he excels, J.J. McCarthy steps up, or Murray leaves for bigger money elsewhere, the Vikings could be in the market for a new starter.
5. Miami Dolphins Malik Willis signed a three-year deal, but the Dolphins have shown they will move on quickly if a quarterback does not pan out. After shedding major salary, a high draft pick at the position could be part of their rebuild.
4. New York Jets Geno Smith is a solid bridge option at age 35, but the Jets have not had a long-term answer since 2021. They will likely target a high-upside quarterback in a strong class.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers Even if Aaron Rodgers returns for 2026, his age means the Steelers must plan ahead. Third-round pick Drew Allar may need more evaluation time, leaving Pittsburgh open to drafting another quarterback.
2. Cleveland Browns With Deshaun Watson’s contract ending and several recent mid-round quarterbacks on the roster, the Browns could use a high pick on a rookie to lead a full reset under new coach Todd Monken.
1. Arizona Cardinals After moving on from Kyler Murray, Arizona is starting 2026 with Jacoby Brissett and third-rounder Carson Beck. A tough season could give them a top pick and a clear chance to draft their next franchise quarterback.
The 2027 class offers real hope for teams needing a signal-caller. For franchises ready to invest at the position, being “on the clock” next year could be a golden opportunity.