The Kevin O’Connell Quarterback Power Ranking if 2026 Goes South

Kevin O’Connell is essentially the Statue of Liberty but for NFL passers. “Give me your tired, your poor passers,” the skipper appears to say, “for our Minnesota huddle yearning to throw free.”

Does he sing a similar song following the 2026 season?

Already, some are doing the purple dot connecting. What happens if neither of Kyler Murray nor J.J. McCarthy prove to be the long-term solution under center? Minnesota is desperate for one of these guys to work out but there’s no guarantee. Who could get signed up to become the next bounce back story for Kevin O’Connell?

The Kevin O’Connell QB List for 2027

10 — Joe Burrow, Cincinnati

He’s the dream scenario. The problem is that he’s almost certain to remain in Cincinnati. What could occur is that the Bengals upgrades don’t lead to success in 2026, leading toward the veteran forcing his way out. He and Justin Jefferson remain close.

9 — C.J. Stroud, Houston

Mr. Stroud had a great rookie season but has struggled since then. Houston is being led by DeMeco Ryans, a terrific coach who has built a terrific defense. Does confidence in the young arm disappear if things go poorly again?

8 — Jalen Milroe, Seattle

He got added while Nolan Teasley was still in Seattle. He’s very unlikely to overcome Sam Darnold. Does a trip to Minnesota make sense? Right now, he’s an upside backup behind a passer who could play for another decade.

7 — Bryce Young, Carolina

The former No. 1 selection took a step forward last season. Does he fully establish himself as the Carolina QB1? If not, where does he go?

6 — Justin Fields, Kansas City

Size, athleticism, and resilience. He’s a good leader who is now getting to work under Andy Reid and alongside Patrick Mahomes. He’s going to improve.

5 — Kirk Cousins, Las Vegas

The Vikings could do better. The Vikings could also do worse. What remains to be seen is if he’ll survive in Vegas beyond a single year. Fernando Mendoza is marinating but the Raiders are going to toss him on the grill before long.

4 — Anthony Richardson, Indianapolis

He needs to get healthy and then go from there. Lots of talk about Kevin O’Connell someday working with the former No. 4 selection. Upside.

3 — Will Levis, Tennessee

Tennessee now has Cam Ward, somebody who demonstrated promise as a rookie even though he had very little support. Ward isn’t likely to cede ground. Levis, meanwhile, believes in himself.

2 — Mac Jones, San Francisco

Picking up a point guard would make sense. Jones could be that point guard. He appears to perfectly fit the general criteria as a former 1st-Round selection in the prime of his career and who has been a journeyman. Working in a similar offense in San Francisco is the icing on the cake.

1 — Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay

Prior to settling in with the Buccaneers, Mr. Mayfield spent time with the Rams. He’s far from perfect but he’s an above-average player who carries himself with swagger. Justin Jefferson could feast with Mayfield throwing the ball.

Senior Editor for Vikings Territory & PurplePTSD . Twitter & Bluesky: @VikingsGazette. Email: k.joudry[at]vikingsterritory[dot]com. Canadian. Jude 1:24-25.