Bridge Quarterbacks: The Key to Dynasty Fantasy Football Success
As the 2026 NFL Draft season approaches, fantasy football managers are already strategizing for their dynasty leagues. One crucial position to consider is the bridge quarterback—players who can provide value for a season or two while you wait for a long-term solution. With the 2026 quarterback class not shaping up to be ideal, now is the perfect time to explore these mid-term options.
Why Bridge Quarterbacks Matter
In dynasty leagues, the goal is to build a roster that can compete year after year. Bridge quarterbacks fit into this strategy by offering immediate help while you scout and wait for the next elite signal-caller. These players are often undervalued, making them excellent targets in drafts and trades.
The Current QB Landscape
The 2026 NFL Draft class is not expected to deliver many franchise quarterbacks. Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, the No. 2 prospect on the PFF Big Board, is projected to go No. 1 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. However, after Mendoza, the talent pool thins, making bridge quarterbacks highly relevant in fantasy football.
Top Bridge Quarterbacks to Target
1. Tua Tagovailoa, Former Miami Dolphins
Tua Tagovailoa's 2025 season was underwhelming, with a 61.2 PFF overall grade that ranked 31st among quarterbacks with at least 250 dropbacks. The Dolphins are likely moving on from Tagovailoa, and wherever he lands, he'll likely serve as a bridge quarterback. Despite his struggles, Tagovailoa has shown flashes of his elite potential, including a QB1 fantasy season in 2023 with a 90.2 PFF passing grade, 29 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions.
Tagovailoa is still a couple of years away from turning 30, which means there's a small window where his stock could improve. Investing mid-round draft assets in him could pay off if he finds the right situation.
2. Malik Willis, Former Green Bay Packers
Malik Willis had an intriguing 2025 season, impressing when he stepped in for Jordan Love. Despite only taking 47 dropbacks compared to Love's 493, Willis was the highest-graded Packers quarterback with a 92.3 PFF grade. As a pending free agent, Willis offers significant upside, particularly as a rushing threat.
Willis has run the ball 42 times in Green Bay, with 12 runs going for over 10 yards. While his success in Green Bay might not translate to a new environment, his rushing upside makes him an enticing target for dynasty managers willing to take a risk.
3. Jacoby Brissett, Arizona Cardinals
Jacoby Brissett is a classic bridge quarterback. In 2025, he had more top-10 weekly finishes than several notable quarterbacks, including Baker Mayfield, Bo Nix, and Jordan Love. Brissett finished as the QB15 overall, demonstrating his ability to be a productive fantasy quarterback.
Entering his age-34 season, Brissett offers a clear skill set that can provide value for a season or two. While he may not have the upside of Tagovailoa or Willis, he is a safe bet for immediate production in a dynasty league.
Draft-Day Confidence
When targeting bridge quarterbacks, it's essential to consider their potential landing spots and the surrounding talent. A change of scenery can often rejuvenate a player's career, as seen with Tagovailoa's past performance. Similarly, Willis's rushing ability could make him a valuable asset in the right system.
Remember, in superflex leagues, even serviceable backups are rostered. If you need a bridge quarterback, you may have to give up some draft assets, so ensure it's worth your while. Investing in a player like Tagovailoa or Willis could provide a significant return on investment if they find the right situation.
Conclusion
Bridge quarterbacks are a vital part of dynasty fantasy football strategy. With the 2026 NFL Draft class not offering many elite options, now is the time to explore these mid-term solutions. Tua Tagovailoa, Malik Willis, and Jacoby Brissett are excellent targets for managers looking to build a competitive roster for the long haul.
As the offseason progresses, keep an eye on these players' potential landing spots and how they fit into new systems. A fresh start could be just what they need to elevate their fantasy value and contribute to your dynasty success.
