No rookie QBs are set to start in Week 1 for just the second time in the last 19 seasons
Summary
For only the second time in 19 years, no rookie quarterbacks will start in the first week of the NFL season. Both the Las Vegas Raiders’ No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza and the Los Angeles Rams’ No. 13 pick Ty Simpson will begin the season as backup quarterbacks.Key Facts
- No rookie quarterbacks are starting in Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season.
- Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick, will be a backup behind Kirk Cousins for the Raiders.
- Ty Simpson, the No. 13 pick, will also start as a reserve for the Rams.
- The last time this happened was in 2022 and before that in 2007.
- Since 1967, 30 quarterbacks were taken first overall; 20 started their rookie season opener.
- The NFL trend is to start rookie QBs earlier now due to smaller differences between college and pro play.
- Baker Mayfield was the last No. 1 pick before Mendoza to start his rookie career as a backup (2018).
- Most first overall picks have started at least one game during their rookie season.
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