Overview
- Coach Kevin O’Connell has not committed to J.J. McCarthy as the 2026 starter and has publicly called for a truly competitive quarterback room, per ESPN.
- Pundits caution that securing a credible veteran without a guaranteed QB1 promise could be difficult, though some quarterbacks may believe they can win an open competition.
- Reported targets include free agents or potential free agents such as Kirk Cousins, Aaron Rodgers, Malik Willis and Geno Smith if he is released, with trade swings like Kyler Murray or even the rights to retired Derek Carr also floated.
- Additional hedge options discussed include a trade for 49ers backup Mac Jones under contract through 2026 and an upside bet on the Colts’ Anthony Richardson as a reclamation candidate.
- Media chatter now even lists McCarthy as a possible trade chip, while speculative blockbusters range from a costly Lamar Jackson package to Joe Burrow talk that The Athletic reports the Bengals have no intention of entertaining; clarity is expected around the combine and before the March 9 free‑agency window.