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NFL QBs Overpaid? Bucs Win Without A Pass
2 Nov
Summary
- Buccaneers won a game without completing a single pass.
- Many highly-paid quarterbacks are underperforming significantly.
- The Deshaun Watson contract has inflated QB salary expectations.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers recently secured a historic victory, notably winning a game without completing a single pass. This unusual achievement underscores a growing concern in the NFL regarding the significant overpayment of quarterbacks relative to their on-field impact. As of November 2nd, 2026, numerous quarterbacks commanding substantial cap hits are delivering mediocre performances, prompting questions about their value.
Reports indicate that the contract signed by Deshaun Watson, which featured significant guarantees, has set a precedent, driving up salary expectations across the league. Quarterbacks are increasingly earning salaries that represent a disproportionate percentage of team salary caps, yet their influence on game outcomes has diminished.
The current NFL landscape appears to favor a strong run game and robust defense, a shift that many highly compensated quarterbacks are struggling to adapt to. This situation is causing front offices to re-evaluate their quarterback strategies, with some suggesting a more expendable approach to the position, akin to how running backs are managed.
In other Week 8 NFL news, the Pittsburgh Steelers are benefiting from a weakening AFC North. Meanwhile, teams like the Cardinals and Ravens face quarterback challenges. Justin Herbert has experienced a notable decline in performance, and the Atlanta Falcons faltered in a key divisional game.
