The Washington Commanders are gearing up for what promises to be a challenging 2026 NFL season, and if you're a fan of the burgundy and gold, you'll want to pay close attention to the quarterbacks they'll be lining up against. While it's never wise to judge a season's difficulty by a single metric, one factor consistently stands out: the quality of opposing quarterbacks. Just think back to 2020, when the Commanders (then the Football Team) rode a wave of backup and injured QBs to a 7-9 record—or 2024, when their five-game winning streak to close the season featured matchups against Will Levis, Jake Haener, and a rookie Michael Penix. The lesson? A schedule's toughness often starts under center.

So, who will be under center for Washington's opponents in 2026? The list is a mix of proven veterans, rising stars, and a few question marks. In the NFC East, the Commanders will face perennial rivals like Dak Prescott (Cowboys) and Jalen Hurts (Eagles), both of whom have Super Bowl aspirations and the arm talent to back them up. The Giants, meanwhile, will feature Jaxson Dart, a young signal-caller looking to make his mark in the division.

Stepping outside the division, Washington will take on Matthew Stafford (Rams), a seasoned Super Bowl champion who can still sling it, and Brock Purdy (49ers), the "Mr. Irrelevant" turned MVP candidate. The Cardinals will counter with Jacoby Brissett, a steady veteran who knows how to manage a game. It's a gauntlet of arms that will test the Commanders' defense—and their own quarterback—every single week. Whether you're stocking up on Commanders gear for game day or just curious about the matchups, this schedule is one to watch.