No rookie quarterback will start in Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season. This is only the second time in the last 19 seasons. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
According to Associated Press journalist Josh Dubow, none of the league's 32 teams will start a rookie quarterback in the first week. This situation was first recorded in 2007.
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (No. 15) was under pressure from San Francisco 49ers linebacker Jaden Dugger (No. 53) during a preseason game on Aug. 27 in Las Vegas.
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Ty Simpson scrambled during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Aug. 27 in Inglewood, California.
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel spoke with the media prior to a practice on Sept. 3 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike MacDonald answered questions at a press conference after a preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Aug. 28 in Kansas City, Missouri.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers watched warmups before a preseason game against the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 13 in Pittsburgh.
This situation may spark debate about the readiness of rookie quarterbacks in the NFL. In recent years, many rookies have started in Week 1.
However, this season teams have chosen to rely on experienced quarterbacks. Various factors may have influenced this decision, including the risk of injury to rookies or their lack of readiness.
Associated Press published this information based on official NFL data. The first games of the season begin on Sept. 10.