The 2026 NFL season is fast approaching, and fantasy football participants are already turning their attention to the quarterbacks who might deliver more value than their current ADP suggests.
Kyler Murray’s New Chapter
Among the most talked‑about names is Kyler Murray, who has swapped the Arizona Cardinals for the Minnesota Vikings. The move places him in a revamped offense that emphasizes both passing and rushing, giving him a dual‑threat profile that could easily lift him above his projected QB17 slot.
Shough’s Sophomore Surge
Another player drawing considerable buzz is Tyler Shough of the New Orleans Saints. After a rookie campaign in which he completed 67.6% of his passes for 2,384 yards and 10 touchdowns, the second‑year signal‑caller is expected to take a step forward and finish somewhere between QB12 and QB16.
Rodgers’ Final Ride
Veteran Aaron Rodgers, now in his final NFL chapter with the Pittsburgh Steelers, is also expected to exceed his QB28 ranking. With an upgraded offensive line and a handful of new contributors, Rodgers brings a wealth of experience that could translate into a resurgence of production.
These three quarterbacks illustrate a broader trend: teams are reshaping rosters to maximize quarterback upside, and fantasy owners who recognize the shift early may secure a competitive edge.
Why the Upside Matters
Fantasy drafts are increasingly data‑driven, and analysts stress that a quarterback’s ADP does not always reflect the full picture. Factors such as offensive line quality, receiving corps depth, and scheme complexity can dramatically alter a player’s trajectory.
As training camps progress and preseason games unfold, the narratives surrounding Murray, Shough and Rodgers will continue to evolve. Their performances will ultimately determine whether the projected outperformance materializes.