The NFL's quarterback carousel is spinning, and this year's ride might take an unexpected turn. With the free-agent pool looking shallow for teams desperate under center, the trade market could become the hottest spot to find a new signal-caller. According to analyst Ari Meirov, a heated pursuit of backup quarterbacks is brewing, with several reserves potentially switching teams to compete for starting jobs elsewhere.
The Potential Trade Targets
Meirov highlighted five names that could generate significant interest: Tyson Bagent of the Chicago Bears, Mac Jones of the San Francisco 49ers, Tanner McKee of the Philadelphia Eagles, Davis Mills of the Houston Texans, and Anthony Richardson of the Indianapolis Colts. This group features a mix of untested youth, seasoned veterans, and former high draft picks looking for a reset. "That backup quarterback market for some of these teams, who could maybe become bridge starters or compete for starting jobs, could become something here in the coming weeks," Meirov noted, setting the stage for potential offseason drama.
Tyson Bagent: The Undrafted Wild Card
Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles has already fielded calls about Tyson Bagent, calling a potential trade a "really tough decision." Bagent, an undrafted rookie in 2023, showed flashes by winning two of his four starts that year. However, with Caleb Williams now the franchise cornerstone, Bagent has seen minimal action, throwing just six passes over the last two seasons. His intriguing rookie tape and low-cost contract make him an attractive reclamation project for a team willing to take a chance.
Mac Jones: Seeking a Mayfield-Style Revival
Once a Pro Bowl rookie in New England, Mac Jones saw his stock plummet before landing in San Francisco as Brock Purdy's backup. Pressed into duty, Jones thrived in Kyle Shanahan's system, posting a career-best 97.4 passer rating. Now 27, he represents the classic 'buy-low' candidate for teams hoping to replicate the late-career surges of Baker Mayfield or Geno Smith. The 49ers face a choice: cash in on his rebound season or keep him as a premium insurance policy.
Tanner McKee & Davis Mills: The Steady Hands
In Philadelphia, Tanner McKee climbed to QB2 after the Kenny Pickett trade and has gained valuable experience with Week 18 starts in consecutive seasons. With Sam Howell hitting free agency, the Eagles must decide if McKee is Jalen Hurts' long-term backup or a tradeable asset. Down in Houston, Davis Mills reminded everyone of his capability last November. Stepping in for an injured C.J. Stroud, he led the Texans to three consecutive wins, showcasing efficient play with five touchdowns to just one interception. His 26 career starts provide a level of experience few other backups can offer.
Anthony Richardson: The High-Risk, High-Reward Gamble
Perhaps the most fascinating name on the list is Anthony Richardson. The Colts' former No. 4 overall pick possesses elite athleticism and a cannon arm but has struggled with accuracy and decision-making, completing just over 50% of his passes with more interceptions than touchdowns. Still only 24, his raw talent represents a tantalizing ceiling. If Indianapolis is truly ready to move on, a team with a patient coaching staff might be willing to make a low-cost bet on unlocking his potential.
Why the Market is Heating Up
The simple math is driving this trend: demand outweighs supply. Several NFL franchises are staring at quarterback questions without clear answers in free agency. Trading for a known commodity with starting experience—or intriguing upside—becomes a compelling alternative. These five players aren't just clipboard holders; they're potential stop-gaps, competitors, or even long-term solutions for the right team. As one general manager starts the bidding, others may feel pressure to follow, turning the backup QB market into one of the offseason's most active and unpredictable storylines.
