Garrett Podell· Sep 22, 2026
Podell ranks the NFL's five best backup quarterback situations entering 2026, putting Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza first ahead of Mac Jones, Drew Lock, Carson Wentz and Joe Flacco.
“Yes, 2025 Heisman Trophy winner, Indiana Hoosiers national championship-winning quarterback and 2026 NFL Draft first overall pick Fernando Mendoza hasn't taken an NFL regular-season snap, but his potential while marinating under Las Vegas Raiders coach Klint Kubiak was enough for him to garner the top spot.”
published in writing · CBS Sports · read the original →
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- Top Player ListsSep 22, 2026
“Best backup QB situations — 5. Cincinnati: Joe Flacco; 4. Minnesota: Carson Wentz; 3. Seattle: Drew Lock; 2. San Francisco: Mac Jones; 1. Las Vegas: Fernando Mendoza”
Not settled yet. This is graded once the result is in.
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