CBS Sports analysis identifies seven NFL teams likely to seek quarterbacks in the 2027 draft

CBS Sports has identified seven National Football League teams that are likely to require a quarterback in the 2027 NFL Draft, citing a deep class of prospects including Arch Manning and Dante Moore. The analysis highlights the Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, Atlanta Falcons, Minnesota Vikings, and Miami Dolphins as franchises facing uncertainty at the position. The report suggests that while some teams have interim solutions, such as Kyler Murray in Arizona or Deshaun Watson in Cleveland, the lack of long-term franchise quarterbacks may drive these organisations to target top-tier talent in the upcoming draft cycle.

The Arizona Cardinals are viewed as the most likely team to move on from Kyler Murray, with the franchise reportedly informing Jacoby Brissett that he will handle starting duties. However, Brissett is seeking a new contract and has been skipping voluntary workouts, creating a scenario where the team may avoid paying him starter money beyond the current season. With Carson Beck identified as a potential next man up, Arizona is positioned as a candidate for the No. 1 overall pick if the team struggles in the NFC West.

In Cleveland, Deshaun Watson is competing for the starting job against Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, and Taylen Green. The report notes Watson’s history of injury and off-field issues, suggesting that another year of mediocre quarterbacking could leave the Browns at the bottom of the AFC North and searching for a franchise quarterback inside the top 10.

The New York Jets have tabbed Geno Smith as a stopgap starter, with a young quarterback room including Brady Cook, Bailey Zappe, and Cade Klubnik. The Jets, who won just three games last season, are seen as potential candidates for the No. 1 pick if they fail to improve, although a stronger defensive unit may raise their floor and hinder their draft positioning.

Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan re-signed Aaron Rodgers, leaving a lack of a clear succession plan. Backup Mason Rudolph and second-year player Will Howard are in the mix, alongside third-round pick Drew Allar. The report highlights the risk of regression for the 42-year-old Rodgers and the absence of a seamless transition plan for the post-Rodgers era.

Atlanta Falcons face a competition between Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa, both of whom have injury histories. The analysis suggests that neither signal-caller is a franchise cornerstone, making it reasonable for the Falcons to draft another option next April regardless of the outcome of the current training camp battle.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy is competing with Kyler Murray, who signed a minimum contract. The report indicates that if Murray delivers a solid campaign, the Vikings may face a decision between re-signing him or finding a rookie replacement, likely resulting in a middle-of-the-first-round draft pick.

Miami Dolphins signed Malik Willis to a three-year deal, viewing him as the starter with Quinn Ewers waiting in the wings. The team is undergoing a rebuild, and while Willis could provide stability, the Dolphins are considered early favourites to have a top pick in the 2027 draft, potentially using it to land Arch Manning or Dante Moore.