NFL Quarterbacks Facing Challenges in Finding Backup Roles in 2023 Offseason
There is a tier of NFL quarterbacks that could be permanently relegated to backup roles, and they may struggle to find those jobs because quarterback supply appears to be greater than demand in the 2023 NFL offseason.
As of March 1, 2023, ESPN reported that the Carolina Panthers were having contract discussions with Sam Darnold, but it is still unclear where they stand. The former No. 1 overall draft pick in 2018 was traded from the Browns in March and played for the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams during the 2022-2023 season.
There were recent reports that the San Francisco 49ers may be interested in signing Baker Mayfield to add to their quarterback room. Like Mayfield, 30-year-old Carson Wentz has already played for three NFL teams in his career; the Philadelphia Eagles, Indianapolis Colts, and Washington Commanders.
Experienced backup quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett and Case Keenum are also navigating the changing quarterback landscape going into the 2023 season. It may require a scorecard to keep track of who is the starter and backup on each NFL team because monumental changes may be forthcoming.