There are only two divisions where rookie QBs can start and prosper in the NFL

Fri, Apr 5, 2024
by SetTheNarrative.cappertek.com

In the high-stakes world of NFL quarterbacking, navigating the divisions can make or break a rookie's career before it even begins. Picture this: a rookie QB stepping onto the gridiron, facing off against some of the league's most formidable veterans. It's a trial by fire that few can survive unscathed.

First up, the AFC East, a division practically fortified with quarterbacking titans. Aaron Rodgers leading the Jets, Josh Allen commanding the Bills, Jacoby Brissett orchestrating the Patriots, and Tua Tagovailoa at the helm of the Dolphins. It's a veritable gauntlet, a rookie's worst nightmare. Against these seasoned pros, even one win feels like a Herculean feat.

Then there's the NFC South, where the competition is fierce and the quarterbacks are seasoned to perfection. Baker Mayfield, Derek Carr, Kirk Cousins with backup QB Taylor Heinicke commandeer the Buccaneers, Saints and Falcons respectively. The only chink in the armor? The Panthers, anchored by the tested and failed Bryce Young. As long as he's calling the shots, they're destined for the division cellar.

Over in the AFC North, it's a quarterbacking showdown of epic proportions. Deshaun Watson leads the charge for the Browns backed up by Jameis Winston. Russell Wilson wields the steel for the Steelers, while Lamar Jackson reigns supreme for the Ravens, and Joe Burrow commands the Bengals. It's a division where rookies are thrown to the wolves, with victory seeming like a distant dream.

And don't even get started on the NFC West, a division where quarterbacking prowess knows no bounds. Matthew Stafford slinging for the Rams with Jimmy G serving as the reserve QB, Geno Smith and Sam Howell manning the Seahawks, Kyler Murray electrifying for the Cardinals with Desmond Ridder waiting in the wings, and Brock Purdy defying expectations for the 49ers. It's a veritable quarterbacking minefield where rookies should not dare tread.

But not all divisions are created equal. In the NFC North, rookie quarterbacks find a glimmer of hope amid the darkness. Sure, there's Jordan Love leading the Packers, but the Lions, Vikings, and Bears present opportunities ripe for the taking. With Jared Goff, Sam Darnold, and what's his face who is holding the spot for Caleb Williams, rookies can carve out their place in the sun.

Likewise, the AFC South offers a sanctuary for rookie signal-callers. With CJ Stroud leading the Texans, they are the only real challenge a rookie would encounter. The rest, a slew of struggling quarterbacks across the Jaguars, Colts, and Titans, it's a division ripe for the picking. Here, rookies can thrive and prove their mettle against less formidable foes in Trevor Lawrence, Anthony Richardson and Will Levis.

But let's be real. The AFC West and NFC East? They're quarterbacking fortresses, with Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert reigning supreme in the West, and Dak Prescott and Jalen Hurts holding court in the East. For rookies, it's a fool's errand to even entertain the thought of conquering these divisions. A team would have to draft another Mahomes or Herbert and coach them for a few years before they would see positive results. It's best for teams in these two divisions to trade for a veteran QB who can compete from day 1 as the starter and win enough games in these divisions to be declared the divisional winner.

Amidst the competitive landscape of professional football, the NFL recognizes the critical role of quarterbacks in shaping the destiny of franchises. As such, the league is committed to assisting teams in making informed decisions when selecting quarterbacks. By offering resources such as scouting expertise, analytics-driven insights, and developmental programs, the NFL aims to ensure that teams identify and acquire quarterbacks who not only possess exceptional talent but also align with their long-term strategic objectives. This proactive approach not only enhances the competitive balance within divisions but also elevates the overall quality of play across the league. Unfortunately it hasn't worked up to this point. Out of the 4 quarterbacks drafted in the first 33 picks of last year's draft, only CJ Stroud will survive the 2024/25 season. This year's draft will also produce the same results.

In the cutthroat world of NFL quarterbacking, divisional dynamics can make or break a rookie's career. Choose wisely, young gunslingers, for the path to glory is fraught with peril.