Mayfield, Darnold, and the 2026 QB Landscape
ESPN breaks down the contract battles and rookie timelines defining the league's future signal callers.
ESPN has dropped the hammer on the league's most volatile position, breaking down quarterback scenarios for every franchise ahead of the 2026 season. The spotlight burns brightest on the veterans, where Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold face critical crossroads regarding potential contract extensions. Front offices must weigh recent on-field production against future financial risk, knowing a misstep could cap their ceiling for years.
Developmental arcs are equally scrutinized. Bryce Young remains under the microscope as he attempts to solidify his status as a franchise cornerstone, while rookie Mendoza looms as a wild card. Teams are already debating when to insert Mendoza into the lineup, balancing the need for immediate wins against long-term growth.
