Veteran QBs Remain Free Agents as NFL Season Nears

Rodgers, Cousins, Garoppolo, and Wilson all still without teams

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:01am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football quarterback in motion, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange overlapping to create a fragmented, multi-perspective view of the player.The uncertainty surrounding several veteran NFL quarterbacks' futures highlights the complex geometry of the league's quarterback landscape.Phoenix Today

As the 2026 NFL season approaches, several high-profile veteran quarterbacks remain unsigned free agents, including Aaron Rodgers, Kirk Cousins, Jimmy Garoppolo, and Russell Wilson. These experienced signal-callers are still looking for new homes despite the league's quarterback carousel typically slowing down by this point in the offseason.

Why it matters

The availability of these veteran QBs could have a significant impact on the upcoming season, as teams in need of an upgrade at the position may look to sign one of these proven players to bolster their rosters. Their free agent status also raises questions about the future plans and strategies of the franchises they previously played for.

The details

Rodgers, Cousins, Garoppolo, and Wilson are all former Pro Bowl quarterbacks who have started and won games at the highest level. However, for various reasons - whether it's age, contract demands, or fit with a new system - these players remain unsigned as training camps are set to open across the NFL.

  • The 2026 NFL season is set to kick off in early September.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

A 4-time NFL MVP and Super Bowl champion, Rodgers is one of the most accomplished quarterbacks of his generation.

Kirk Cousins

A 2-time Pro Bowler, Cousins has been a consistent starting QB in the league for the past decade.

Jimmy Garoppolo

A Super Bowl champion with the 49ers, Garoppolo has shown the ability to lead a team to the big game.

Russell Wilson

A Super Bowl winner and 9-time Pro Bowler, Wilson is one of the most dynamic dual-threat QBs in recent memory.

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What they’re saying

“There's still a lot of talent available at the quarterback position. Teams in need will have some intriguing options to consider as we get closer to the season.”

— NFL Analyst

What’s next

Teams in need of a veteran QB will likely ramp up their recruitment efforts in the coming weeks as training camps open and the regular season approaches.

The takeaway

The availability of these high-profile quarterbacks late in the offseason underscores the unpredictable nature of the NFL's quarterback market and the difficult decisions teams face in building their rosters.