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NFL Quarterback Trades: Predicting the Next Wave

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  Published in House and Home on Thursday, April 2nd 2026 at 17:41 GMT by FanSided
      Locale: UNITED STATES

The NFL's Quarterback Carousel: Beyond the Draft, Predicting the Next Wave of Trades

NFL free agency and the draft have concluded, yet the quarterback landscape remains remarkably fluid. While many teams appear settled at the position for now, a secondary wave of potential trades looms large. Several quarterbacks find themselves in precarious positions - either as backups overshadowed by recent draft picks or as veterans on teams undergoing rebuilds. This article delves into five quarterbacks most likely to be traded in the coming months, expanding on potential destinations and analyzing the factors driving this continued movement.

The Post-Draft QB Shuffle: Why the Movement Continues

The draft, while aimed at securing future franchise quarterbacks, often creates immediate ripple effects. Teams investing heavily in young signal-callers like the Chicago Bears (Caleb Williams) and Washington Commanders (Jayden Daniels) naturally become more willing to part with existing players at the position. Furthermore, teams like the New England Patriots, Denver Broncos, and New York Giants are at crossroads, needing to either commit to a direction or reset entirely. This leads to a market for experienced, albeit potentially flawed, quarterbacks who can offer immediate stability or serve as capable backups.

1. Justin Fields - Chicago Bears: A Fresh Start Beckons

The arrival of Caleb Williams in Chicago makes Justin Fields' departure all but inevitable. Despite flashes of brilliance and impressive athletic ability, Fields hasn't consistently delivered the winning results the Bears desire. His dual-threat capabilities, however, are highly valuable in today's NFL. The most logical landing spot remains Atlanta. New Offensive Coordinator Zac Robinson is implementing a system that could leverage Fields' running prowess while minimizing the need for complex reads. Atlanta has been aggressively pursuing a long-term quarterback solution, and Fields, while not a guaranteed savior, offers a potentially high-reward, relatively low-risk option compared to further draft gambles. A trade to Atlanta also allows Fields to compete immediately for a starting role, something he wouldn't have in Chicago.

2. Mac Jones - New England Patriots: Veteran Backup Demand

Mac Jones's tenure in New England appears to be drawing to a close. While not a disastrous quarterback, he's been inconsistent and hasn't ascended to the level of a true franchise player. The Patriots' decision to draft Drake Maye signals a clear intent to move forward with a new era under center. Jones will likely be traded as a veteran backup. The Las Vegas Raiders present a compelling destination. With Gardner Minshew gone, they need a reliable hand to support Aidan O'Connell. Jones' experience and understanding of NFL defenses could be valuable assets, even in a limited role.

3. Russell Wilson - Denver Broncos: The Contract Conundrum

Russell Wilson's situation is the most complex. The Broncos are stuck with a massive contract for a quarterback who has dramatically declined in performance. While a trade is desirable, finding a team willing to absorb that financial burden is exceedingly difficult. The Pittsburgh Steelers, repeatedly linked to veteran quarterbacks, are a potential, though unlikely, destination. While they've expressed faith in Kenny Pickett, the Steelers consistently seek stability at quarterback. However, the financial implications are significant, potentially requiring the Broncos to retain a substantial portion of Wilson's contract. A more realistic scenario may involve the Broncos seeking a conditional trade--a deal contingent on Wilson's performance or a future draft pick--to lessen the financial hit.

4. Daniel Jones - New York Giants: A Second Chance?

The Giants declining Jones's option signals a lack of confidence, but doesn't necessarily preclude a trade. Injuries have plagued his career, hindering his development, and the team may explore opportunities to recoup some value. The Tennessee Titans, perpetually searching for a long-term answer at quarterback, could be an intriguing landing spot. Will Levis remains unproven, and Jones, despite his limitations, provides a veteran presence and a potentially higher floor. A change of scenery and a competent offensive line could unlock some of his earlier promise.

5. Jarrett Stidham - Las Vegas Raiders: Filling a Backup Role

Jarrett Stidham is a perfectly serviceable NFL backup. With Aidan O'Connell established, the Raiders are likely to move Stidham to a team where he can potentially compete for a starting role or at least provide reliable depth. The Washington Commanders make sense. While they've drafted Jayden Daniels, having a reliable veteran backup is crucial, especially for a young quarterback navigating his first NFL season. Stidham's experience and understanding of offensive schemes make him an appealing option.

The quarterback carousel is unlikely to stop here. Injuries, unexpected performances, and evolving team needs will continue to shape the landscape throughout the season. These five quarterbacks represent the most likely candidates for the next wave of trades, but the NFL is a league of constant change, and surprises are always possible.