CBS Sports has released a ranking of the 10 [1] best backup quarterback situations across the NFL for the 2026 [2] season.
These rankings identify which franchises are most resilient to injuries or performance dips at the starting position. Because a quarterback injury can derail a championship contender, the quality of a second-string option often determines a team's postseason viability.
Among the top-tier options is Mac Jones of the San Francisco 49ers. Jones has already demonstrated his value to the organization, having saved the 49ers season in 2025 [3]. His presence provides the team with a proven commodity who can manage the offense effectively if the starter is unavailable.
Fernando Mendoza of the Las Vegas Raiders also appears as a top backup option for 2026 [4]. Mendoza represents a key asset for the Raiders as they look to stabilize their depth chart. His inclusion in the top 10 [1] suggests the team has a viable plan for continuity in the quarterback room.
Other teams highlighted in the assessment include the Cincinnati Bengals, where the depth situation is viewed as a strategic advantage [5]. The evaluation focuses on a mix of veteran experience and emerging talent to determine which teams are best equipped for unforeseen circumstances [1].
NFL franchises continue to prioritize high-value backups to avoid the volatility seen in previous seasons. The current landscape shows a trend toward retaining players with significant trade value or high-ceiling potential to ensure a safety net exists for the starting role [6].
“CBS Sports has released a ranking of the 10 best backup quarterback situations across the NFL for the 2026 season.”
The emphasis on high-quality backup quarterbacks reflects a league-wide shift toward risk mitigation. By securing players like Jones and Mendoza, teams are attempting to eliminate the 'single point of failure' that often occurs when a franchise quarterback is injured, effectively turning the backup position into a strategic insurance policy.
