NFL teams rank backup quarterbacks by reliability and performance in 2026
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 19, 2026, 11:52 AM
Last updated Sep 19, 2026
ESPN ranks all 32 backup quarterbacks in the NFL as of September 19, 2026, assessing which teams can depend on their second-string options if needed. The list includes various backup players, highlighting those who have already seen action in the current season. Teams face the challenge of ensuring strong depth at the quarterback position as injuries can drastically impact playoff aspirations.
- •ESPN evaluates the best No. 2 quarterbacks in the league.
- •The ranking includes backups who have played in 2026.
- •Teams rely on these quarterbacks for critical game situations.
- •Injury to starters can shake playoff chances for many franchises.
- 11:36 AMESPN — Ranking all 32 backup quarterbacks in the NFL: Which teams can truly rely on their QB2s if needed?
"We stacked the best No. 2 quarterbacks across the league, including Mac Jones and even a few backups who have already been forced to play in 2026.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NFL•Sep 19, 2026, 12:06 PMSteelers Get First Bidder for Joey Porter Jr. Trade - Sports Illustrated
NFL•Sep 19, 2026, 12:03 PMCardinals Reveal Carson Beck’s Practice Status Amid Injury Recovery
NFL•Sep 19, 2026, 12:03 PMTennessee Titans vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Behind enemy lines Week 2
NFL•Sep 19, 2026, 12:03 PMBehind enemy lines: Previewing Rams-Giants with 5 key questions
NFL•Sep 19, 2026, 12:02 PMTV broadcast map for Bears vs. Vikings in Week 2
NFL•Sep 19, 2026, 12:01 PMEmmett Johnson discusses his bond with teammate Kenneth Walker III