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Veteran QBs on Thin Ice: Who's Next to Go?
8 Oct
Summary
- Many veteran quarterbacks have shortened leashes due to rookie contracts.
- Several starting quarterbacks are underperforming and facing potential replacement.
- Team front offices have limited time to make crucial quarterback decisions.

As the NFL season progresses, veteran quarterbacks are experiencing shorter leashes than ever before. Rookie contracts are highly valued, and talented incoming players are ready to step in. Front offices have a limited window to make critical decisions about their starting positions.
Several quarterbacks are on the thinnest ice heading into Week 5. Players like Aaron Rodgers, Geno Smith, and Jacoby Brissett are showing concerning statistics and team performances. Malik Willis, Daniel Jones, and Jameis Winston are also struggling, with their teams considering younger options or future draft capital. Injuries and underperformance are creating opportunities for backups like Carson Wentz and rookie J.J. McCarthy.
Kyler Murray's season has been inconsistent after an early concussion, with Carson Wentz seeing action. Baker Mayfield's significant contract makes benching him costly for Tampa Bay. Kirk Cousins is performing well but is on a short-term deal, with rookie Fernando Mendoza waiting. Deshaun Watson, despite a large contract, has yet to consistently perform at a high level, with Shedeur Sanders as a potential replacement.
These situations highlight a league-wide trend of teams prioritizing future potential and immediate performance, putting immense pressure on established starting quarterbacks to deliver results quickly or risk losing their positions.