Free Agent Quarterbacks

In the last fews days, things have been starting to heat up around the NFL. We just passed the franchise tag deadline and March 16th is the beginning of the new league year so team are making moves. What we already is know that Aaron Rodgers is returning the to the Green Bay Packers for the 2022 season, Russel Wilson will be joining the quarterback heavy AFC West division as a Denver Bronco and Carson Wentz is now apart of the Washington Commanders.

But there are still trades/signings that could be looming in the near future. Multiple other quarterbacks have the possibility of changing teams. It's important for teams to make decisions on their quarterback BEFORE entering the draft so they are able to make smart decisions for the future of their team.

Quarterbacks That Might Be Next

Image courtesy of Sports Illustrated/ Kirby Lee of USA Today

Jimmy Garoppolo: Since entering the league, Jimmy G has done nothing but win and his 35-16 record as a starter proves that but that's when he's able to play. In his eight seasons he's missed a substantial amount of time due to significant injuries. Even this offseason Garoppollo had shoulder surgery. But assuming everything goes smooth and he is able to get back out on the field come July, Jimmy G would make a team in need of a quarterback better.

Deshaun Watson: Even after not playing the entire 2021 season, Watson is still a head-turning player that draws in a lot of attention when it comes to a trade. He does come with some heavy baggage if he is traded- 22 women have sexual assault allegations against him. He hasn't been charged criminally in any of these cases, but if the NFL decides to put down any discipline that would heavily affect the team willing to trade for him. But if we just look at on-field play here, he is the most desirable free agent quarterback on the market. Watson would instantly make any team a contender for the playoffs

Jameis Winston: Winston has had his up and downs through out his NFL career, everyone knows the 30/30 year he had with the Buccaneers. But after having surgery on his eyes to fix his vision issues, he seemed to get better with the Saints. Until his devastating ACL injury Week 8. Going into that game the Saints were 5-2 and a team to be scared of in the NFC. Jameis seems to fit well in the Saints offense, but barring the Saints not signing him to an extension, Winston would be a good pickup for any team.

Teddy Bridgewater: This past season in Denver sums up what teams will getting with Teddy if they decide to sign him. He is not consistent, but when he's hot he's really hot. In seven games Bridgewater a passer rating over 100, the Broncos won. If you don't know already, the league average is around 90 for passer rating. With the Broncos trading for Wilson and shipping Lock to Seattle, Denver would be smart to keep him as a backup. But Bridgewater is a system quarterback and will only be able to evaluate a team that works around him and doesn't just throw him into a big mess. Not many teams that are in need a quarterback can do that, but he's still a viable option.

Marcus Mariota: Mariota has all the qualities to be a starting quarterback in the league. He's able to throw and can be a double threat as a QB that is able to carry the ball. He hasn't had much of a chance to show his skills while being on the Raiders since Carr has been fairly healthy. Although he hasn't started a game since Week 6 2019 with the Titans, Mariota has great physical ability and should be able to lead a team on his own.

Mitchell Tribisky: As a backup for the Bills, Tribisky is a good option especially with his background with the Chicago Bears. Including his record 25-13 record as a starter in three seasons. But being a free agent this offseason gives him a chance to no longer be a backup and regain a starting job for another team.

Teams In Need Of A Quarterback

Desperately:

Colts

Steelers

Texans

Giants

Seahawks

Panthers

Somewhat:

Saints

Lions

Falcons

Vikings

*teams with QBs entering second year not included