The Mid‑Tier Landscape
Fantasy analysts have converged on a consensus list for the 2026 season, and the second tier of quarterbacks — positions 13 through 24 — offers a fascinating blend of upside and risk. These players are often the difference‑makers in league playoffs, but their fantasy value can swing dramatically based on injury news, offensive scheme and even weather patterns.
At No. 13, Patrick Mahomes remains a marquee name despite a late‑season ACL tear. The Kansas City Chiefs have bolstered their ground game, which could limit his passing volume, making his fantasy ceiling more uncertain than in previous years.
Bo Nix, ranked 14th, is recovering from an ankle injury that kept him sidelined for parts of the previous campaign. His production will hinge on the Denver Broncos' willingness to increase passing volume, a factor that could either restore his value or keep it muted.
Matthew Stafford, positioned 15th, enjoyed a standout 2025 season marked by high touchdown rates. However, analysts warn that regression is likely, especially if the Los Angeles Rams' offensive line does not improve.
Kyler Murray, slated 16th, is expected to start for the Minnesota Vikings after a trade that places him in a more pass‑heavy environment. His dual‑threat skill set, particularly his rushing ability, could lift him back into the top‑12 conversation.
Jordan Love, ranked 17th, presents an interesting paradox: he is a more accomplished real‑life quarterback than fantasy quarterback. Limited passing volume in Green Bay’s system may cap his weekly point totals despite his talent.
Jared Goff, at No. 18, offers a reliable floor, especially in indoor venues where his accuracy shines. Consistency makes him a safe starter for many fantasy rosters.
Baker Mayfield, ranked 19th, is working through a series of injuries. If he can stay healthy, a bounce‑back season is plausible, particularly with a more supportive receiving corps.
Malik Willis, positioned 20th, brings elite rushing upside that is highly prized in fantasy formats rewarding dual‑threat quarterbacks. His ability to add points on the ground could offset modest passing numbers.
Tyler Shough, ranked 21st, showed flashes of promise in the latter half of the 2025 season. His emergence could make him a sleeper pick for teams seeking a high‑upside backup.
C.J. Stroud, at No. 22, has seen his fantasy ceiling shrink since a rookie year that promised big numbers. Limited offensive support in Houston may keep his weekly output modest.
Sam Darnold, ranked 23rd, posted a strong statistical season but struggled to translate it into fantasy relevance due to a lack of rushing production and a run‑heavy scheme.
Finally, Cam Ward, positioned 24th, looks to build on a promising rookie campaign with the Tennessee Titans. Offseason additions to the receiving corps could give him the boost needed to exceed expectations.
Sleeper Candidates and Risks
Among the lower‑tier names, Tyler Shough and Cam Ward stand out as potential sleepers, but their success will depend on health and offensive line stability. Meanwhile, players like Jordan Love and C.J. Stroud carry high upside but also significant risk if their teams' offensive philosophies shift.
Injury luck will be a decisive factor for several of these quarterbacks. Baker Mayfield's recovery timeline, Patrick Mahomes' post‑surgery workload, and the durability of Bo Nix's ankle are storylines that will dominate preseason discussions.
Overall, the QB2 tier for 2026 offers a compelling mix of proven performers, injury‑prone veterans and emerging talents. Savvy fantasy managers will need to balance upside against risk, using late‑round picks to secure the most favorable matchups.