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2024 Team Quarterback Rankings

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Next up in our position group rankings we have the most important position in the sport – quarterbacks. It’s the most important position in the NFL by a landslide, and performance at the position can make or break a team’s entire season. The best of the bunch are capable of single-handedly elevating teams to greatness. Meanwhile, those on the opposite end of the spectrum all but guarantee their teams have no shot at success in the postseason.

To help formulate these rankings, I asked myself a simple question. “If I’m trying to win a Super Bowl this year, which quarterback room would I select to help me do it?”

Because quarterback is a position that’s largely operated by one individual, a team’s projected starter is the primary influence on these rankings. There are a few instances where noteworthy backups or guys competing for a starting role play a factor, but more often than not it’s one guy determining where a team falls on this list.

Track our whole position group rankings series: Offensive Line | Pass-Catcher | Defensive Line | Backfield | Linebacker | Secondary  | Special Teams | Coaches and Coordinators | more to come!

2024 Team Quarterback Rankings

1. Kansas City Chiefs

(Starter: Patrick Mahomes; backups: Carson Wentz, Chris Oladokun, Ian Book)

KANSAS CITY, MO - JANUARY 19: Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) celebrates after a play against the Tennessee Titans on January 19, 2020, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by William Purnell/Icon Sportswire)
KANSAS CITY, MO – JANUARY 19: Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) celebrates after a play against the Tennessee Titans on January 19, 2020, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by William Purnell/Icon Sportswire)

No surprises at the top of this list. Patrick Mahomes isn’t just the best quarterback in the NFL right now – he’s making a stronger and stronger case every year to be considered the greatest of all time. Mahomes now has 2 NFL MVP awards, 3 Super Bowl rings and 3 Super Bowl MVP awards. The accolades continue stacking up, and he’s proven capable of dominating with numerous supporting casts, and a variety of play styles. There’s nothing this guy can’t do, and at 28 years old, he might have another decade of elite football left in the tank.

Fun Stat: Mahomes led the league in playoff passing yards last season (1,051).

2. Baltimore Ravens

(Starter: Lamar Jackson; backups: Josh Johnson, Devin Leary, Emory Jones)

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) leaps over Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander (23) during the first half of a NFL football preseason game, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2019, in Baltimore. The play was called back on a penalty on the Ravens. (AP Photo/Gail Burton)
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) leaps over Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander (23) during the first half of a NFL football preseason game, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2019, in Baltimore. The play was called back on a penalty on the Ravens. (AP Photo/Gail Burton)

Lamar Jackson might just be the most fun quarterback to play in the NFL for quite some time. He’s a human highlight reel on the ground, and his most recent MVP season showed the world just how dominant he can be through the air as well. In his first year outside of Greg Roman’s offense, Jackson set a career high in passing yards, and still managed to finish the season with over 800 rushing yards. He’s as close to a one-man offense as you’ll see, and he’s finally starting to get the recognition he deserves for much of his dominance.

Fun Stat: 3,678 – the passing yards number Jackson hit to set his personal career high.

3. Buffalo Bills

(Starter: Josh Allen; backups: Mitchell Trubisky, Shane Buechele)

CINCINNATI, OH - NOVEMBER 05: Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) looks to pass during the game against the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals on November 5, 2023, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, OH. (Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire)
CINCINNATI, OH – NOVEMBER 05: Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) looks to pass during the game against the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals on November 5, 2023, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, OH. (Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire)

There may be no quarterback in the NFL who fits the “hero ball” mantra more perfectly than Josh Allen. He’s a gunslinger in every sense of the word, and his absurd arm talent and fearless mentality mean he’s constantly making throws that cause your jaw to drop. That fearlessness can come back to haunt him at times, but more often than not, it’s what leads the Bills to victory rather than defeat. When you pair those traits with the elite athleticism and rushing ability he brings to the table, you wind up with a truly elite player.

Fun Stat: Allen ranked second in the league in interceptions in 2023 (18).

4. Cincinnati Bengals

(Starter: Joe Burrow; backups: Jake Browning, Logan Woodside, Rocky Lombardi)

CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 10: Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) on the field during first quarter of the National Football League game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 10, 2023, at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire)
CLEVELAND, OH – SEPTEMBER 10: Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) on the field during first quarter of the National Football League game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 10, 2023, at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire)

It seems as though the injury made people quick to forget just how dominant Joe Burrow can be. We’re just a few short seasons removed from him leading the Bengals to the Super Bowl. Pinpoint accuracy is Burrow’s trademark, and he knows how to use it. He pairs that accuracy with a strong understanding of NFL defenses, and an unflappable toughness that causes his team to consistently rally behind him. He lacks the mobility many of the other elite quarterbacks in the league today possess, but he more than makes up for that gap with his insane ability to dice defenses up from within the pocket.

Fun Stat: Jake Browning (Burrow’s backup) led the league in completion percentage last season (70.4%).

5. Los Angeles Chargers

(Starter: Justin Herbert; backups: Easton Stick, Max Duggan, Casey Bauman)

INGLEWOOD, CA – OCTOBER 1: Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) rolls out during the NFL game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Los Angles Chargers on October 01, 2023, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Icon Sportswire)

Justin Herbert is the type of guy who looks like he was grown in a lab to play quarterback in the NFL. He checks every single box imaginable, and his rocket launcher of an arm means no area of the field is safe for opposing defenses. Herbert’s ability to make pinpoint throws at every level of the field makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses to stop, and he pairs that arm talent with elite processing, plus athleticism and the prototypical size for an NFL quarterback. Simply put, he checks all the boxes, and does nearly everything you’d want from an NFL quarterback at an elite level.

Fun Stat: Herbert became the first player in NFL history to throw for over 300 yards (307) against the blitz during his Week 3 matchup with the Vikings.

6. Dallas Cowboys

(Starter: Dak Prescott; backups: Cooper Rush, Trey Lance)

ARLINGTON, TX – DECEMBER 29: Dallas Cowboys Quarterback Dak Prescott (4) rolls out and throws a touchdown pass during the NFC East game between the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Redskins on December 29, 2019 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX. (Photo by Andrew Dieb/Icon Sportswire)

Dak Prescott may get a ton of heat from the media, but he’s still an extremely talented passer. The first word that comes to mind when thinking of his game is “precision.” Whether it’s dissecting a defense before the snap even comes or delivering a strike up the seam between multiple defenders, the precision Prescott plays with is second to none. He’s truly a master of the Cowboys offense, and both his brain and his arm make him an elite NFL quarterback.

Fun Stat: Prescott led the league in passing touchdowns in 2023 (36).

7. Philadelphia Eagles

(Starter: Jalen Hurts; backups: Kenny Pickett, Tanner McKee, Will Grier)

GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 12: Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) breaks a tackle attempt by Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Mike Danna (51) during Super Bowl LVII between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles on February 12, 2023 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ. (Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire)
GLENDALE, AZ – FEBRUARY 12: Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) breaks a tackle attempt by Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Mike Danna (51) during Super Bowl LVII between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles on February 12, 2023 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ. (Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire)

It can be hard to separate Jalen Hurts from the rest of the Eagles’ star-studded offense, but the 25-year-old has proven these past two seasons that he’s elite in his own right. Hurts’ rushing ability is well known, and he’s an unquestioned elite runner at the quarterback position, but in recent years he’s added to his bag through the air as well. Hurts’ main limitation as a passer is his ability to attack the middle of the field, but he’s an absolute surgeon when attacking deep and outside the numbers. With new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore now in town, it’ll be interesting to see if Hurts can take yet another step forward in 2024.

Fun Stat: Hurts ranked 3rd in the league in interceptions in 2023 (15).

8. Los Angeles Rams

(Starter: Matthew Stafford; backups: Jimmy Garoppolo, Stetson Bennett, Dresser Winn)

INGLEWOOD, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Matthew Stafford #9 of the Rams during an NFL game between the Chicago Bears and the Los Angeles Rams on September 12, 2021, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA. (Photo by Icon Sportswire)
INGLEWOOD, CA – SEPTEMBER 12: Matthew Stafford #9 of the Rams during an NFL game between the Chicago Bears and the Los Angeles Rams on September 12, 2021, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA. (Photo by Icon Sportswire)

Matthew Stafford’s name doesn’t always crack the top 10 list of best quarterbacks in the NFL, but he and the Rams are absolutely deserving of a top spot in my book. Stafford’s been an absolutely dominant passer for well over a decade now, and his time in Los Angeles helped take his game – and the entire Rams organization – to another level. Even though he’s getting up there in age, Stafford can absolutely still sling it, and he’s on the short list of quarterbacks who make opposing defenses nervous when he has the ball with the game on the line.

Fun Stat: 2023 was Stafford’s 15th season as an NFL starter.

9. Houston Texans

(Starter: C.J. Stroud; backups: Davis Mills, Case Keenum, Tim Boyle)

CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 29: C.J. Stroud #7 of the Houston Texans runs with the ball during a football game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina on Oct 29, 2023. (Photo by David Jensen/Icon Sportswire)
CHARLOTTE, NC – OCTOBER 29: C.J. Stroud #7 of the Houston Texans runs with the ball during a football game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina on Oct 29, 2023. (Photo by David Jensen/Icon Sportswire)

C.J. Stroud just posted one of the greatest rookie seasons we’ve ever seen at the quarterback position. Every trait that made him a highly touted prospect coming out of Ohio State immediately translated to the NFL. Stroud is a pinpoint passer who attacks every area of the field with a seemingly effortless demeanor. His precision and ability to read defenses are already elite, and if he takes even a slight step forward in year two, he’ll enter the unquestioned upper echelon of NFL quarterbacks.

Fun Stat: Stroud led the league in YPG during his rookie season (273.9).

10. Jacksonville Jaguars

(Starter: Trevor Lawrence; backups: Mac Jones, C.J. Beathard)

CINCINNATI, OH - SEPTEMBER 30: Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) warms up before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Cincinnati Bengals on September 30, 2021, at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati, OH. (Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire)
CINCINNATI, OH – SEPTEMBER 30: Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) warms up before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Cincinnati Bengals on September 30, 2021, at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati, OH. (Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire)

The start to Trevor Lawrence’s career hasn’t quite lived up to the astronomical hype he entered the NFL with. Still, Lawrence’s tape is much more impressive than the numbers may suggest. Despite a below average supporting cast in Jacksonville, Lawrence has flashed elite ability and the upside that could bump him and the Jaguars into the top five on this list in the near future. Lawrence checks all the boxes when it comes to what you want in a quarterback – great size, incredible arm, fantastic processing, plus athleticism and off-the-charts instincts. If the Jaguars can collectively take a step forward around Lawrence this year, we could see him and this offense reach another level in 2024.

Fun Stat: Lawrence became the first quarterback in Jaguars history to throw for back-to-back 4,000-yard seasons.

11. Green Bay Packers

(Starter: Jordan Love; backups: Sean Clifford, Michael Pratt)

GREEN BAY, WI - OCTOBER 03: Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) warms up during a game between the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers at Lambeau Field on October 3, 2021 in Green Bay, WI. (Photo by Larry Radloff/Icon Sportswire)
GREEN BAY, WI – OCTOBER 03: Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) warms up during a game between the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers at Lambeau Field on October 3, 2021 in Green Bay, WI. (Photo by Larry Radloff/Icon Sportswire)

I try not to overreact too much to just one impressive season, but just like the No. 9 team on this list, Jordan Love and the Packers have shown flashes of stardom at the quarterback position. Love got off to a slower start, but once he found his groove, he had the Packers offense running on all cylinders. He has an arm that can make any throw in the playbook, the mobility to extend plays, and he distributes the ball extremely well amongst his entire pass catching group. Opposing defense should be scared about the fact that what we saw from Love in 2023 is only the beginning.

Fun Stat: Love ranked second in the league in touchdowns last season (32).

12. New York Jets

(Starter: Aaron Rodgers; backups; Tyrod Taylor, Jordan Travis, Andrew Peasley)

SPARTANBURG, SC - AUGUST 09: New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) during the NFL Carolina Panthers training camp on August 9, 2023, at Wofford College campus in Spartanburg, S.C. (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire)
SPARTANBURG, SC – AUGUST 09: New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) during the NFL Carolina Panthers training camp on August 9, 2023, at Wofford College campus in Spartanburg, S.C. (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire)

It remains to be seen what Aaron Rodgers’ return to form will look like after rupturing his Achilles in Week 1 last year. Still, Rodgers is a Hall of Fame talent who should still be able to dice up opposing defenses even if he’s lost a step. His arm talent is in the all-time elite category, and he’s been around the league long enough to beat defenders with his wits as well. It’s possible that the injury causes Rodgers and the Jets to fall significantly down these rankings come 2025, but for now, it’s reasonable to be optimistic about what he’ll bring to the table this coming season.

Fun Stat: Rodgers should eclipse 60,000 career passing yards this season (currently has 59,055).

13. Arizona Cardinals

(Starter: Kyler Murray; backups: Desmond Ridder, Clayton Tune)

GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 08:  Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) looks downfield during the NFL football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals on December 8, 2019 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Kevin Abele/Icon Sportswire)
GLENDALE, AZ – DECEMBER 08: Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) looks downfield during the NFL football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals on December 8, 2019 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Kevin Abele/Icon Sportswire)

The Cardinals poor performance in 2023 paired with Kyler Murray’s extended absence due to injury made the 26-year-old quarterback a bit of an afterthought. Murray has flashed MVP potential in his career, and his dual-threat ability makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses to try and contain. Now that he has a bonafide No. 1 receiver in Marvin Harrison Jr., Murray should bounce back in a major way in 2024. He’s a quarterback with game changing potential, and his dual-threat ability drastically raises the ceiling of the Cardinals offense.

Fun Stat: Murray has yet to eclipse the 4,000-yard passing mark, but in his three healthy seasons he’s come extremely close – 2024 might just be the year he passes the milestone

14. Atlanta Falcons

(Starter: Kirk Cousins; backups: Michael Penix Jr., Taylor Heinicke, John Paddock)

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 23: Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) throws a pass against the Green Bay Packers in the first quarter of the game on December 23, 2019 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Icon Sportswire)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DECEMBER 23: Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) throws a pass against the Green Bay Packers in the first quarter of the game on December 23, 2019 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Icon Sportswire)

Coming off an Achilles injury means Kirk Cousins’ ability to produce in 2024 is a bit of a question mark. Still, the veteran passer commanded a $180 million contract for a reason, and the Falcons believe he can regain the borderline top-10 form he’s flashed in recent seasons. If Cousins himself isn’t enough (which, apparently he isn’t for the Falcons’ front office…), the team also invested a top-10 pick in Michael Penix Jr. in this year’s draft. Penix is an older prospect, but he may just be the best pure passer in a stacked 2024 quarterback class. Injuries and an ability to throw the ball short make Penix a question mark at the next level, but he should have time to get healthy and refine his game as he sits behind Cousins for a few seasons.

Fun Stat: Cousins ranked tied for second in completion percentage last season (69.5%).

15. Detroit Lions

(Starter: Jared Goff; backups: Hendon Hooker, Nate Sudfeld)

KANSAS CITY, MO - SEPTEMBER 07: Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) raises his hands to fire up the fans late in the fourth quarter of an NFL game between the Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs on Sep 7, 2023 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO. (Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire)
KANSAS CITY, MO – SEPTEMBER 07: Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) raises his hands to fire up the fans late in the fourth quarter of an NFL game between the Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs on Sep 7, 2023 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO. (Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire)

After being thrown to the curb by the Rams, Jared Goff has rebounded in a major way in Detroit. He led the Lions to an NFC Championship this past season and was extremely close to bringing the team to the Super Bowl had it not been for a few unlucky breaks. It’s clear that Goff has improved significantly from his time in L.A., and the veteran presence he brings to the quarterback position has done wonders for the Lions organization. He’s still a player who requires a great system around him to succeed, but he’s now proven capable of taking multiple teams on deep postseason runs, and those winning traits simply can’t be ignored.

Fun Stat: Goff ranked second in the league in passing yards in 2023 (4,575).

16. San Francisco 49ers

(Starter: Brock Purdy; backups: Joshua Dobbs, Brandon Allen, Tanner Mordecai)

SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 11: San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) celebrates a touchdown in the second quarter of an NFL game between the San Francisco 49ers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers on December 11, 2022, at LeviÕs Stadium, in Santa Clara, CA. (Photo by Tony Ding/Icon Sportswire)
SANTA CLARA, CA – DECEMBER 11: San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) celebrates a touchdown in the second quarter of an NFL game between the San Francisco 49ers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers on December 11, 2022, at LeviÕs Stadium, in Santa Clara, CA. (Photo by Tony Ding/Icon Sportswire)

I’ll admit I’m still not fully sold on Brock Purdy, but the resume he’s produced these past two seasons is undeniable at this point. He’s not necessarily a guy who will elevate an offense, but he’s certainly a guy who feels comfortable serving as the point guard of the high-octane 49ers group. His arm won’t wow anyone, but he understands the offense well, makes the right reads, throws with accuracy, and brings a sprinkle of playmaking ability to an offense that sorely needed it from their quarterback.

Fun Stat: Purdy ranked third in passing touchdowns (31) in 2023.

17. Seattle Seahawks

(Starter: Geno Smith; backups: Sam Howell, PJ Walker)

NEW ORLEANS, LA - OCTOBER 09: Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith (7) calls out assignments during second half action during the football game between the Seattle Seahawks and New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome on October 9, 2022 in New Orleans, LA. (Photo by Ken Murray/Icon Sportswire)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – OCTOBER 09: Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith (7) calls out assignments during second half action during the football game between the Seattle Seahawks and New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome on October 9, 2022 in New Orleans, LA. (Photo by Ken Murray/Icon Sportswire)

Geno Smith has one of the more intriguing career arcs in the entire NFL, and it’s still a bit shocking that he’s entering the 2024 season as the Seahawks starting quarterback. After serving as a backup for more than half a decade, Smith regained a starting job in Seattle in 2022, where he found his groove by bringing a gunslinger mentality to a passing offense littered with playmakers. While Smith doesn’t possess the astronomical ceiling many quarterbacks ranked above him do, he brings a fearless approach to the position that pairs well with a surprisingly accurate arm. If nothing else, the Seahawks should feel good about the stability he’ll bring to the position this season.

Fun Stat: Smith tied for first in the league in fourth-quarter comebacks in 2023 (4).

18. Miami Dolphins

(Starter: Tua Tagovailoa; backups: Mike White, Skylar Thompson, Gavin Hardison)

CHICAGO, IL - AUGUST 14: Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) looks down field to throw the football during a preseason game between the Chicago Bears and the Miami Dolphins on August 14, 2021 at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire)
CHICAGO, IL – AUGUST 14: Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) looks down field to throw the football during a preseason game between the Chicago Bears and the Miami Dolphins on August 14, 2021 at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire)

It’s been an up-and-down start to Tua Tagovailoa’s NFL career, but 2023 showed us glimpses of what made him such a highly touted prospect coming out of Alabama. Ranking Tagovailoa is a tough exercise though, because it’s hard to remove him from the offense he led in Miami. Head coach Mike McDaniel schemed up some easy throws for Tagovailoa, and having two studs on the outside in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle made his life significantly easier. Still, some of the accuracy and anticipation with which Tua played can’t go unnoticed. He’s a very rhythmic passer who does a great job keeping an offense on schedule, and doing what he needs to do to keep his team in games.

Fun Stat: Tagovailoa led the league in passing yards in 2023 (4,624).

19. Indianapolis Colts

(Starter: Anthony Richardson; backups: Joe Flacco, Sam Ehlinger, Kedon Slovis)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 01: Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) reacts after scoring a touchdown during a NFL game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Indianapolis Colts on October 1, 2023 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Jeffrey Brown/Icon Sportswire)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – OCTOBER 01: Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) reacts after scoring a touchdown during a NFL game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Indianapolis Colts on October 1, 2023 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Jeffrey Brown/Icon Sportswire)

While Anthony Richardson’s rookie campaign was cut short by injury, it was nothing short of electric when he was on the field. Basically, upon arrival Richardson established himself as one of the best athletes on the field any time he laced up the cleats. His physical profile is off the charts, and he has an arm that can make every throw on the field, even if his accuracy could use a bit more refinement. It’ll be interesting to see how much of a step forward the sophomore QB can take in 2024, and if he takes a major step forward, his upside could help this Indianapolis offense skyrocket.

Fun Stat: Richardson averaged 5.4 yards per rush attempt in 2024.

20. New England Patriots

(Starter: Jacoby Brissett; backups: Drake Maye, Bailey Zappe, Joe Milton III)

CLEMSON, SC - NOVEMBER 18: North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye (10) during a college football game between the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Clemson Tigers on November 18, 2023 at Clemson Memorial Stadium in Clemson, S.C.  (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire)
CLEMSON, SC – NOVEMBER 18: North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye (10) during a college football game between the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Clemson Tigers on November 18, 2023 at Clemson Memorial Stadium in Clemson, S.C. (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire)

The Patriots are a great example of balance in the quarterback position. They drafted Drake Maye with the No. 3 overall pick in the draft, knowing he would be a bit of a project with a longer learning curve to get up to speed in the NFL. To accommodate this, they paired Maye with Jacoby Brissett, a savvy veteran who knows New England well, can efficiently run an NFL offense and show Maye the ropes along the way. This may not be a high-ceiling group in 2024, but their floor is high and the long-term outlook with Maye under center is extremely optimistic.

Fun Stat: Maye’s air yards per attempt went down each year he was in college (10.9, 9.2, 8.7).

21. Chicago Bears

(Starter: Caleb Williams; backups: Tyson Bagent, Brett Rypien, Austin Reed)

SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 14: USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams (13) runs for a first down on a fourth down play during a college football game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on October 14, 2023 at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire)
SOUTH BEND, IN – OCTOBER 14: USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams (13) runs for a first down on a fourth down play during a college football game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on October 14, 2023 at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire)

The term “generational” has been thrown out a few times to describe Caleb Williams, and it’s for good reason. Williams is one of the more highly touted QB prospects we’ve ever seen, and it’s for good reason. His arm talent is off the charts, he’s a great athlete, and by all accounts he’s a fantastic leader in the locker room. His escape artist style of play may take some time to blossom at the NFL level, but it appears with Williams in the mix, the Bears finally have a franchise quarterback they can get excited about.

Fun Stat: Williams threw for 904 yards more in his sophomore season than in his junior (final) season.

22. Cleveland Browns

(Starter: Deshaun Watson; backups: Jameis Winston, Tyler Huntley, Dorian Thompson-Robinson)

JACKSONVILLE, FL - AUGUST 12: Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) looks on during the game between the Cleveland Browns and the Jacksonville Jaguars on August 12, 2022 at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Fl. (Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire)
JACKSONVILLE, FL – AUGUST 12: Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) looks on during the game between the Cleveland Browns and the Jacksonville Jaguars on August 12, 2022 at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Fl. (Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire)

The Browns quarterback room is arguably the toughest to rank on this list. At one point in his career, Deshaun Watson was an unquestioned stud who looked the part of a future Hall of Famer. Now, due to both injuries and off-field concerns (and frankly, performance), we’re not even sure if he’s a starting-caliber player at all. The range of outcomes for Watson is extremely volatile this year, and it wouldn’t surprise anyone if he regained some of his elite form and led the Browns on a playoff run. Unfortunately for Browns fans, the flip side is also true, and it wouldn’t be shocking to see Watson wind up on the bench come season’s end.

Fun Stat: Watson’s 6.5 Y/A last year were actually higher than his career average.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers

(Starter: Russell Wilson; backups: Justin Fields, Kyle Allen, John Rhys Plumlee)

CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 01: Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) and Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) shake hands after a game between the Chicago Bears and the Denver Broncos on October 01, 2023 at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire)
CHICAGO, IL – OCTOBER 01: Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) and Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) shake hands after a game between the Chicago Bears and the Denver Broncos on October 01, 2023 at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire)

Russell Wilson’s career is certainly on the downswing, but he showed us in 2023 that he’s still got a little left in the tank. He’s not the elite playmaker that he once was, but he should be able to efficiently orchestrate the run-heavy offense the Steelers are looking to run this upcoming season. Adding some additional intrigue to this quarterback room is Justin Fields, who’s physical profile still provides immense upside, despite the lack of team success his first few years in the league. The Steelers took the cost-effective approach at quarterback this offseason, but double dipping on Wilson and Fields provides them with both a little bit of stability, and a splash of long-term upside at a reasonable price.

Fun Stat: Wilson tied for first in the league in fourth-quarter comebacks in 2023 (4).

24. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

(Starter: Baker Mayfield; backups: Kyle Trask, John Wolford, Zack Annexstad)

TAMPA, FL - SEPTEMBER 17: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws a pass during the regular season game between the Chicago Bears and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 17, 2023 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire)
TAMPA, FL – SEPTEMBER 17: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws a pass during the regular season game between the Chicago Bears and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 17, 2023 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire)

After being relegated to backup roles in Carolina and Los Angele, Baker Mayfield signed a one-year “prove it” deal with Tampa Bay in the 2023 offseason. Mayfield came back with a vengeance and posted a career high in receiving yards and touchdowns this past season and was rewarded with a lucrative contract that will keep him in Tampa Bay for the next three seasons. While he’s not the elite passer the Browns hoped he would be when they selected him first overall in 2023, Mayfield has proven to be an NFL caliber starter who can operate an NFL offense.

Fun Stat: Mayfield ranked third in the league in intended air yards in 2023 (4,831).

25. New York Giants

(Starter: Daniel Jones; backups: Drew Lock, Tommy DeVito, Nathan Rourke)

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 29: New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) prior to the National Football League game between the New York Giants and the Philadelphia Eagles on December 29, 2019 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 29: New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) prior to the National Football League game between the New York Giants and the Philadelphia Eagles on December 29, 2019 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire)

Yes, the Giants tried aggressively to move on from Daniel Jones in the 2024 draft, but he’s still a starting-caliber NFL quarterback. The 2023 season was atrocious and injury riddled for Jones, but we’ve seen better football from him in the past. While I don’t expect Jones to suddenly evolve into a top-10 passer, I do think the addition of Malik Nabers will help remind NFL fans that Jones isn’t quite the laughingstock many paint him to be. He’s still a serviceable NFL quarterback who led his team to the postseason just two seasons ago.

Fun Stat: In 2022, Jones was the third-best QB in the league when under pressure; he posted a +4.3% completion percentage over expectation when pressured.

26. Washington Commanders

(Starter: Jayden Daniels; backups: Marcus Mariota, Jeff Driskel, Sam Hartman)

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 01: LSU Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) reacts from the sideline during the ReliaQuest Bowl against the Wisconsin Badgers on January 1, 2024 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire)
TAMPA, FL – JANUARY 01: LSU Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) reacts from the sideline during the ReliaQuest Bowl against the Wisconsin Badgers on January 1, 2024 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire)

A few considered Jayden Daniels to be the best quarterback in the 2024 class, but the Commanders still find themselves below a few other teams with rookie signal callers this year. Daniels should instantly bring some electrifying upside to the table due to his impressive rushing ability, but I’m a bit skeptical about his ability to contribute purely as a passer. The long-term ceiling is extremely high for the rookie passer, but I’m expecting a rocky start in Year 1.

Fun Stat: Daniels threw for a whopping 11.7 Y/A in his final season at LSU.

27. Tennessee Titans

(Starter: Will Levis; backups: Mason Rudolph, Malik Willis)

NASHVILLE, TN - OCTOBER 29: Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis (8) throws a pass during a game between the Tennessee Titans and the Atlanta Falcons on October 29, 2023, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. (Photo by Bryan Lynn/Icon Sportswire)
NASHVILLE, TN – OCTOBER 29: Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis (8) throws a pass during a game between the Tennessee Titans and the Atlanta Falcons on October 29, 2023, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. (Photo by Bryan Lynn/Icon Sportswire)

Will Levis’ rookie tape was a bit of a roller coaster. The volatile passer flashed many of the traits that caused scouts to believe he had a first-round physical profile, but he also showcased the reasons why he fell into the second. He made a few highlight worthy plays, but also left fans scratching their heads wondering “what was he thinking?” on more than one occasion as well. If Levis takes another step forward when it comes to grappling the nuances of the NFL game this year, he could skyrocket up these rankings come 2025, but that step forward is far from a guarantee.

Fun Stat: Levis ranked first in the league in intended air yards per attempt (10.6).

28. New Orleans Saints

(Starter: Derek Carr; backups: Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler, Nathan Peterman)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 29: New Orleans Saints Quarterback Derek Carr (4) looks to pass during the NFL game between the New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts on October 29, 2023, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – OCTOBER 29: New Orleans Saints Quarterback Derek Carr (4) looks to pass during the NFL game between the New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts on October 29, 2023, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire)

At one point in time Derek Carr was a legitimate MVP candidate, but in 2024, he’s a far cry from that caliber of player. Carr is an extremely risk-averse passer who rarely strikes fear in the eyes of opposing defenses. He’s a competent NFL starter, but his ceiling is low, and his best days are likely behind him. He’s not the type of quarterback who will lose the Saints many games on his own this season, but he surely won’t be the reason they emerge victorious very often either.

Fun Stat: Carr’s 68.4% completion percentage ranked sixth in the league last year.

29. Minnesota Vikings

(Starter: J.J. McCarthy; backups: Sam Darnold, Nick Mullens, Jaren Hall)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 03: Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) celebrates after the Big 10 Championship game between the Michigan Wolverines and Purdue Boilermakers on December 3, 2022, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – DECEMBER 03: Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) celebrates after the Big 10 Championship game between the Michigan Wolverines and Purdue Boilermakers on December 3, 2022, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire)

The decision to move on from Kirk Cousins was surely a tough one for the Vikings front office, and only time will tell if it was the right one. Strictly for the 2024 season though, it’s hard to envision the transition to J.J. McCarthy being anything but a downgrade. McCarthy was a late riser in the 2024 draft process, but his championship pedigree made him an appealing prospect for the Vikings. He seems to have the necessary skills to top out as an above-average starter in the NFL, but his upside may be somewhat capped relative to the rest of the rookie class.

Fun Stat: McCarthy completed 72.3% of his passes during his final season at Michigan.

30. Las Vegas Raiders

(Starter: Gardner Minshew; backups: Aidan O’Connell, Anthony Brown Jr., Carter Bradley)

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 19: Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O'Connell (4) looks downfield for a receiver as he scrambles during the game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Fla. (Photo by Peter Joneleit/Icon Sportswire)
MIAMI GARDENS, FL – NOVEMBER 19: Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell (4) looks downfield for a receiver as he scrambles during the game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Fla. (Photo by Peter Joneleit/Icon Sportswire)

The early favorite to start at quarterback in Vegas this year is Gardner Minshew, but all signs indicate it’ll be a competition between him and Aidan O’Connell. While these two at least bring a little bit of experience to the table, they aren’t bringing much in the way of upside. Luckily, whoever winds up getting the start should have a favorable supporting cast, as the Vegas pass-catcher group is stacked with weapons at multiple positions.

Fun Stat: Minshew set a career high in passing yards (3,305) in 2023.

31. Carolina Panthers

(Starter: Bryce Young; backups: Andy Dalton, Jack Plummer)

CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 01: Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) during an NFL football game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Carolina Panthers on October 1, 2023 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C. (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire)
CHARLOTTE, NC – OCTOBER 01: Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) during an NFL football game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Carolina Panthers on October 1, 2023 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C. (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire)

It’s probably too early to fully label Bryce Young as a bust, but man, the 2023 tape was brutal. The former No. 1 overall pick really struggled in his debut season. Sure, he didn’t get much help from his supporting cast, but even in a vacuum, Young’s play was nothing short of disappointing. Panthers fans will be crossing their fingers and hoping that changes in 2024, but the likelihood of a turnaround looks slim at this point.

Fun Stat: No one lost more sack yards (477) than Young in 2023.

32. Denver Broncos

(Starter: Bo Nix; backups: Jarrett Stidham, Zach Wilson)

EUGENE, OR - OCTOBER 21: Oregon Ducks quarterback Bo Nix (10) reacts after a touchdown during a college football game between the Oregon Ducks and Washington State Cougars on October 21, 2023, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.(Photo by Brian Murphy/Icon Sportswire)
EUGENE, OR – OCTOBER 21: Oregon Ducks quarterback Bo Nix (10) reacts after a touchdown during a college football game between the Oregon Ducks and Washington State Cougars on October 21, 2023, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.(Photo by Brian Murphy/Icon Sportswire)

The addition of Bo Nix will help the Broncos usher in a much-needed new era of football. Even this change won’t keep Denver out of the basement of these rankings though. Nix was considered by most to be a Day 2 pick, and the Broncos reaching for him on draft night doesn’t raise anything except for his expectations. There’s not a great veteran presence in this room to help with Nix’s development either. It could be a rough 2024 for Broncos quarterbacks.

Fun Stat: Nix threw just 3 interceptions during his final season at Oregon.

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