We’ve hit the portion of the NFL season where teams are looking ahead. Some towards the playoffs and beyond, others at the NFL Draft and free agency. Quarterback play took a backseat for the first season in recent memory. Total offenses are king, and one dimensional passing attacks simply don’t cut it anymore to win with consistency on Sunday,
Still, quarterbacks are still king in the league — even with line play and running backs now coming at a premium. As we look forward to close out 2024 and into 2025 we’re diving into how the quarterback situations for each team are looking, and how we can divide them into tiers.
Keep in mind this isn’t ranking players on talent alone. The idea isn’t to differentiate a Patrick Mahomes from a Jordan Love, but rather understand that neither the Chiefs or Packers need to think about doing anything with their QB position outside of strengthening their depth.
Totally Set
It goes without saying that each of these teams don’t need to think about their QB situations at all. In each case we’re talking about teams with established, top-tier passers that require no caveats. Barring a bad injury or unforeseen collapse they can lead their organizations for the next 5-10 years.
“Good” with quotations
These are all guys who are legitimately good, but it’s fair to have a discussion about them. No necessarily players you’d look to replace — but there are a few concerns here that tend to fall in a few different buckets.
- Are they good outside of their scheme? Brock Purdy, Bo Nix, Jayden Daniels
- Inconsistent play, but really high level when they’re on: Kyler Murray, Dak Prescott
- Can he stay healthy? Tua Tagovailoa
There’s no reason not to start these guys, but it’s all just a little more iffy that putting them as total locks.
What’s the plan?
These are (for the most part) established starters, but teams that really need to start thinking about their succession plans. Nobody in this tier really has anyone with a bright future waiting in the wings.
Good? Bad? Who knows?
Rookies, sophomores, and guys riding the pine behind established starters. For all these players we truly still don’t know what they are yet, but we’ll be drawing closer to a resolution by the end of this season or the next. At least teams like Minnesota and Atlanta have someone to build around.
Mid
There’s nothing wrong with Baker Mayfield. Statistically you could be confused into thinking he’s an elite quarterback. The truth is he’s just … fine. The Bucs are in a unique position because their offensive skill position players are so good that life is made very easy for anyone under center.
There’s probably an argument to be made that Baker belongs in the “Good” with quotations category, but it’s unsettling putting him on the same tier as those other guys.
Trash
On the plus side neither the Raiders nor Giants have a ton of money tied up in their garbage QB situations.
Overpaid trash
It’s trash, but you’re on the hook for it. Bad look.
Deshaun Watson
You’re paying Deshaun Watson. Nothing can save you from that.
