Quarterback injuries force six NFL teams to adjust season goals
Injuries to starting quarterbacks have left the New York Giants, Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, Seattle Seahawks, Minnesota Vikings and Atlanta Falcons revising their expectations for the 2026 season.
Quarterback injuries have affected six NFL teams from training camp through Week 2 of the 2026 season, prompting each club to reassess its objectives.
The New York Giants face the toughest outlook after first-round pick Jaxson Dart suffered a knee injury that appears more serious than initially thought. With veteran Jameis Winston likely to remain the starter, the Giants have not won a game in five contests without Dart and are expected to target an early draft pick in 2027 rather than playoff contention.
The Chicago Bears lost rookie Caleb Williams to a hamstring strain and backup Tyson Bagent to a concussion. Williams is listed as week-to-week and could return as early as the next Monday Night Football game, while the Bears may rely on third-string quarterback Case Keenum if needed. A brief absence for Williams would likely keep the Bears in the early-season scramble but should not eliminate their playoff hopes.
Washington’s quarterback Jayden Daniels sustained a dislocated elbow, raising concerns about his availability for the remainder of the season. The Commanders, already 0-2, are projected to struggle against a schedule that includes three NFC West opponents and a rematch with the Eagles, with Marcus Mariota expected to take over at quarterback.
Seattle’s Sam Darnold is dealing with a glute injury, but backup Drew Lock led the Seahawks to a win in the opener and a decisive victory in the following game. Coach Mike Macdonald said Darnold could practice this week, and the team hopes to have its full offense back by Week 4, keeping its bid for a second straight Super Bowl appearance on track.
Minnesota’s Kyler Murray suffered a concussion in the season opener but is expected to miss only one game. He cleared protocol and will start in Week 3, giving the Vikings a chance to compete for the NFC North title as they hold a 2-0 record upon his return.
Atlanta’s Michael Penix Jr. was cleared to start after an ACL tear, and Tua Tagovailoa returned to full practice following an oblique injury. The Falcons, 0-2 after two losses, hope Penix can improve on the performance of Cooper Rush, though his prior record as a starter has been modest. The team’s ability to avoid a losing season will depend on Penix’s health and performance.