Quarterback injuries have become a major story following week two of the 2026 NFL season, with key players from the Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, and New York Giants sidelined. Caleb Williams of the Bears is currently questionable for the upcoming Monday Night Football game against the Philadelphia Eagles due to a hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Washington's Jayden Daniels is dealing with an elbow injury expected to keep him out for several weeks, and the Giants’ Jaxson Dart is done for the season after knee surgery. These setbacks have left teams scrambling to adapt behind less experienced or veteran backup quarterbacks.

The Bears face significant challenges depending on Williams's recovery timeline; if he misses time, backup options include Tyson Bagent, who is recovering from a concussion, or veteran Case Keenum. Chicago’s difficulties were evident in their 9-3 loss to the Vikings on Sunday, particularly struggling in adverse weather. Washington's backup Marcus Mariota, who took over after Daniels’s injury, is serviceable but lacks the dynamic skills of the starter. The Giants have turned to Jameis Winston after Dart’s departure, but his inconsistent play so far leaves New York relying heavily on defense as they prepare to face the Tennessee Titans.

Among the NFL’s 0-2 teams, the Commanders are a notable concern due to quarterback instability. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers also face pressure, struggling since late last season with a seven-loss stretch in eight games. The Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans have had tougher early schedules but show potential, especially given their offensive production. However, the Los Angeles Chargers are perhaps most alarmingly positioned, having suffered losses to both the Cardinals and Raiders to start the year. Their turnover margin and defensive struggles, combined with an underwhelming offense despite star QB Justin Herbert, put their season on precarious footing as they face a difficult slate of upcoming games.

Amidst these challenges, some teams have exceeded expectations, particularly the Las Vegas Raiders and Carolina Panthers. Veteran QB Kirk Cousins has led the Raiders to a 2-0 start, performing well despite the absence of key tight end Brock Bowers. Carolina’s Bryce Young is off to a strong start, leading the league with six touchdown passes and posting high passing yardage through just two weeks. Additionally, the Kansas City Chiefs appear to be firing on all cylinders early in the season, with Patrick Mahomes reviving his form in week two and the offense ranking first in the league by average yards per game. These teams stand out as potential contenders amid a chaotic early NFL season.