Netflix’s "Quarterback" Returns with New Faces and Behind-the-Scenes NFL Drama

Netflix is gearing up to deliver another dose of gridiron action with the highly anticipated second season of its hit documentary series, "Quarterback." Following the success of its inaugural season, which provided an intimate look into the lives of three NFL quarterbacks, the streaming giant announced on Wednesday that the show will return this year, promising even more compelling stories from the sport’s most crucial position.

The original "Quarterback" series, which premiered in 2023, quickly captivated audiences with its access to the on and off-field lives of Patrick Mahomes, Kirk Cousins, and Marcus Mariota. Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs superstar, offered a glimpse into the life of a Super Bowl champion, while Cousins’ season with the Minnesota Vikings, unfortunately marked by injury, provided a contrasting narrative of adversity and resilience. Mariota’s journey with the Atlanta Falcons, marked by inconsistent performances, added another layer of complexity to the series.

Building on the foundation of its initial success, "Quarterback" season two will feature a fresh trio of quarterbacks, each bringing their unique experiences and perspectives to the table. Kirk Cousins, now with the Atlanta Falcons, will be returning, giving viewers a unique opportunity to compare and contrast his experiences with two different teams. Joining him are Cincinnati Bengals standout Joe Burrow and Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, both of whom allowed cameras unprecedented access during the 2024-25 NFL season.

Netflix released a teaser on X, formerly Twitter, announcing the upcoming season, heightening anticipation among football fans. "Coming to Netflix this July," the streaming service posted, signaling the impending release of what promises to be another captivating sports documentary.

The announcement comes on the heels of another successful NFL-focused docuseries from Netflix, "Receiver," which debuted a year after "Quarterback." "Receiver" followed the 2023-24 seasons of several prominent wide receivers and one notable tight end, providing an inside look at the lives and careers of players often overshadowed by their quarterback counterparts. Davante Adams’ season with the Las Vegas Raiders, Justin Jefferson’s All-Pro year with the Minnesota Vikings, and Amon-Ra St. Brown’s contributions to the Detroit Lions were all highlighted in the series. San Francisco 49ers standout Deebo Samuel also featured prominently, while George Kittle represented the tight end position.

Both "Quarterback" and "Receiver" are produced by Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions, Mahomes’ 2PM Productions, and NFL Films, a powerful combination that ensures high-quality storytelling and unparalleled access to the inner workings of the NFL.

The return of Kirk Cousins for the second season of "Quarterback" is particularly intriguing. After an injury-plagued final year with the Vikings, Cousins signed with the Atlanta Falcons, hoping to revitalize his career. However, his first season with the Falcons was turbulent. He threw a career-high 16 interceptions before being benched in favor of rookie quarterback Michael Penix. This happened after he was coming off a season in which he tore his right Achilles tendon during a loss to the Green Bay Packers in October 2023. The documentary may delve into the challenges he faced adapting to a new team and system, the pressure of living up to expectations, and the process of overcoming setbacks.

Joe Burrow’s inclusion in the series comes after what was arguably the best season of his NFL career in 2024. Named AP Comeback Player of the Year, Burrow demonstrated remarkable resilience and talent. He finished the season with a career-high 4,918 passing yards and an impressive 43 touchdowns. Despite Burrow’s stellar performance, the Bengals finished with a 9-8 record and narrowly missed qualifying for the playoffs. The documentary could explore Burrow’s leadership qualities, his dedication to his craft, and the intense pressure of leading a team with Super Bowl aspirations.

Jared Goff also enjoyed a strong regular season, finishing with 4,629 yards passing, just nine yards shy of his career best. Goff has been instrumental in the Lions’ resurgence as a competitive force in the NFC. The Lions entered the postseason as the NFC’s top seed but were ultimately upset by the Washington Commanders in the divisional round. The series may focus on Goff’s role in transforming the Lions’ offense, his relationship with his teammates and coaches, and the emotional rollercoaster of a season filled with both triumphs and disappointments.

The first season of "Quarterback" consisted of eight episodes, offering viewers ample opportunity to connect with the featured players and their stories. While Netflix has yet to reveal the episode count for season 2, fans can anticipate a similarly immersive experience, filled with behind-the-scenes footage, candid interviews, and a comprehensive look at the lives of these three quarterbacks.

"Quarterback" provides viewers with a unique perspective on the physical and mental demands of playing the most scrutinized position in professional sports. The series transcends the on-field action, delving into the personal lives of these athletes, their relationships with their families, and the challenges they face navigating the pressures of fame and success.

With its compelling storytelling, high-quality production, and unprecedented access to the lives of NFL quarterbacks, "Quarterback" season two is poised to be another touchdown for Netflix. Football fans and documentary enthusiasts alike will eagerly await its release this July, ready to witness the triumphs, struggles, and personal journeys of Joe Burrow, Jared Goff, and Kirk Cousins. The upcoming season promises to deliver an even more intimate and captivating look into the world of professional football, solidifying "Quarterback" as a must-watch series for anyone interested in the human stories behind the game.