NFL Combine Sets Stage for Quarterback Trades and Releases

Murray, Tagovailoa, Cousins among high-profile QBs expected to be shopped at Combine

Feb. 21, 2026 at 10:07am

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The upcoming NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis is expected to be the setting for trade talks and potential releases of several high-profile veteran quarterbacks, including Kyler Murray, Tua Tagovailoa, and Kirk Cousins. Teams are hoping to find the next Sam Darnold-like reclamation project, but obstacles like massive contract guarantees and injury histories could make deals difficult to complete.

Why it matters

The quarterback carousel is a yearly fixture in the NFL, and this offseason is shaping up to be especially active with several established starters potentially on the move. How teams navigate these complex situations at the Combine could have major implications on the 2026 season and beyond.

The details

Murray, Tagovailoa, and Cousins are all under contract for 2026 with their current teams, but the Cardinals, Dolphins, and Falcons are all expected to explore trade options for the veteran QBs at the Combine. However, factors like Murray's injury history, Tagovailoa's massive contract guarantee, and Cousins' age could make finding suitable trade partners difficult. The Jets could emerge as a dark horse landing spot for Murray, while the Vikings may be interested in a Cousins reunion if he's released by Atlanta.

  • The NFL Scouting Combine opens on Tuesday, February 28, 2026.
  • The NFL's new league year and free agency period begins at 4 p.m. ET on March 11, 2026.

The players

Kyler Murray

The 28-year-old quarterback of the Arizona Cardinals, who has struggled with injuries the past two seasons.

Tua Tagovailoa

The starting quarterback for the Miami Dolphins, who is owed $54 million in guaranteed salary in 2026.

Kirk Cousins

The veteran quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons, who is expected to be released by the team before March 13 to avoid a large contract guarantee.

Geno Smith

The former Seattle Seahawks quarterback, who is about to be replaced as the starter by the Las Vegas Raiders.

Justin Fields

The New York Jets' current starting quarterback, who is entering the final year of his contract.

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What they’re saying

“The wisest thing for the Cardinals might be to offer Murray in trade, and if no club bites, simply keep the 28-year-old quarterback at least one more year.”

— Armando Salguero, Author

“The Jets, who may not be in a spot to land an immediate starter in the draft despite holding the No. 2 overall pick, might be a darkhorse team in a Murray trade scenario.”

— Armando Salguero, Author

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This offseason's quarterback carousel could see several high-profile veterans on the move, with the NFL Scouting Combine serving as a key setting for trade talks and potential releases. However, factors like massive contract guarantees and injury histories could complicate matters for teams looking to acquire new starters.