Overview
- GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah stopped short of naming McCarthy the 2026 starter, emphasizing a “deep, competitive” quarterback room and roster flexibility.
- Head coach Kevin O’Connell said there “has to be” competition and that the club will pursue a deeper, more talented QB group, with a veteran addition expected via free agency or trade.
- McCarthy’s 2025 ledger: 10 starts, 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, 57.6% completions and a 72.6 passer rating, with absences for ankle, concussion and hand injuries.
- Leadership acknowledged past execution gaps at quarterback, noting Sam Darnold’s exit to Seattle after a strong 2024 in Minnesota and an unsuccessful push to retain Daniel Jones.
- Only undrafted rookie Max Brosmer is under contract behind McCarthy for 2026, and reports list potential veteran options on the market such as Marcus Mariota, Russell Wilson, Jimmy Garoppolo, Kenny Pickett and Kirk Cousins.