Rodgers to Titans? Russ to Raiders? Our prescriptions for 7 QB-needy teams

Prescriptions for 7 QB-Needy Teams in 2024

1. Tennessee Titans – Aaron Rodgers?

Why the Titans Need a Quarterback

The Titans have struggled with inconsistency at quarterback since Ryan Tannehill’s decline, and neither Malik Willis nor Will Levis has shown enough to secure the long-term job. With a solid run game and a defense that can keep them competitive, Tennessee may look for a veteran to maximize their current window.

Why Rodgers Fits

Aaron Rodgers, despite an Achilles injury, remains a high-level talent. If the New York Jets decide to move on (due to salary concerns or a shift toward a younger QB), Tennessee could be a logical destination.

• Pros: Instantly elevates the offense, veteran presence, and experience in tough AFC playoff battles.
• Cons: Cap hit, age, and long-term viability.

Feasibility

Tennessee would need to restructure contracts and possibly trade draft capital. However, pairing Rodgers with Derrick Henry (if he stays) and DeAndre Hopkins could make them an AFC dark horse.

2. Las Vegas Raiders – Russell Wilson?

Raiders’ Quarterback Dilemma

Jimmy Garoppolo’s tenure in Vegas has been underwhelming, and rookie Aidan O’Connell, while serviceable, may not be a franchise guy. The Raiders need a proven veteran to compete in the loaded AFC West.

Why Wilson Makes Sense

Russell Wilson’s time in Denver is nearing an ugly end, with the Broncos likely eating a significant portion of his contract to move on.

• Pros: Wilson could be a short-term upgrade over Garoppolo and provide playoff experience.
• Cons: He’s been inconsistent, and his fit in Josh McDaniels’ (or a new coach’s) system is questionable.

Feasibility

If the Broncos release Wilson or trade him with salary retention, Las Vegas could take a low-risk shot. He’d provide stability while they groom a young QB.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers – Justin Fields?

Why the Steelers Need a Change

Kenny Pickett has shown flashes but hasn’t firmly secured the starting job. With a strong defense and talented weapons, Pittsburgh may be a quarterback away from serious contention.

Why Fields Could Work

If the Chicago Bears draft Caleb Williams, Fields will be available. His mobility and arm strength could thrive in Pittsburgh’s system.

• Pros: Dual-threat ability, young with untapped potential.
• Cons: Needs development as a passer, trade compensation could be steep.

Feasibility

The Steelers could acquire Fields for a second-round pick, potentially giving them a high-upside option without fully committing to a rebuild.

4. Atlanta Falcons – Kirk Cousins?

Falcons’ Quarterback Void

Desmond Ridder hasn’t panned out, and Taylor Heinicke is a stopgap. Atlanta has talent at key positions (Bijan Robinson, Drake London, Kyle Pitts) but lacks a reliable QB.

Why Cousins Could Work

If Minnesota moves on from Cousins, Atlanta could sign him as a bridge QB while maintaining playoff aspirations.

• Pros: Veteran leadership, accuracy, familiarity with play-action-heavy offenses.
• Cons: Expensive and coming off an Achilles injury.

Feasibility

Atlanta has the cap space and offensive weapons to attract Cousins. If they prefer experience over a rookie QB, Cousins makes sense.

5. Washington Commanders – Drake Maye or JJ McCarthy?

Commanders’ Rebuild

Washington has talent at receiver but lacks a franchise QB. Sam Howell has struggled with turnovers, making it likely they take a top QB in the draft.

Why Maye or McCarthy?

With a top draft pick, Washington can land a high-upside rookie.

• Maye: Prototypical NFL size, strong arm, and good mobility.
• McCarthy: Smart decision-maker, efficient passer, and poised under pressure.

Feasibility

If the Commanders pick top three, they could land Maye. Otherwise, McCarthy may be available later in the first round.

6. Minnesota Vikings – Trey Lance?

Vikings’ Transition Plan

Minnesota could move on from Cousins and look for a younger, cheaper alternative.

Why Lance?

Lance is an unknown commodity after limited playing time in San Francisco and Dallas. However, his athleticism and upside could make him worth a gamble.

• Pros: Huge potential, athleticism, and ability to develop under Kevin O’Connell.
• Cons: Unproven, raw mechanics.

Feasibility

Minnesota could trade a mid-round pick for Lance and let him compete for the job.

7. New England Patriots – Caleb Williams or Jayden Daniels?

The Post-Belichick Era

The Patriots are moving in a new direction and need a fresh start at QB.

Why Williams or Daniels?

New England has a high draft pick, making them a contender for a top QB.

• Williams: Generational talent, dynamic playmaker.
• Daniels: Elite speed, dual-threat capabilities.

Feasibility

If New England picks No. 1, Williams is a lock. Otherwise, Daniels could be an intriguing option.