The NFL has seen a number of young quarterbacks make their debuts as starters over the past two seasons, and while some look the part of franchise QBs, others have proved already they don’t fit the bill. Here are the grades for the NFL’s most notable first- and second-year quarterbacks, from worst to best:Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers |
GRADE: D Despite being positioned in a terrible way by the Panthers, the former Heisman Trophy winner has failed to live up to the expectations placed on him as the first overall pick; he averages just 187 passing yards per game, throws eight interceptions (three pick-sixes) and has the lowest QBR among qualified quarterbacks (29.9).
Desmond Ridder of the Atlanta Falcons | GRADE: D
With a roster that could compete for the playoffs, Ridder began this season as the team’s starting quarterback. But he only passed for 1,701 yards, six touchdowns (and six interceptions) in Atlanta’s first eight games, and he was benched in favor of journeyman Taylor Heinicke. However, Ridder has returned to the starting lineup and will remain there for the duration of the campaign. Ridder still has time to make apologies because the NFC South is still up for grabs. He is, however, only a temporary fix until Atlanta finds a long-term replacement for the position.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Kenny Pickett | GRADE: D
Under Pickett, the Steelers have a winning record (13-9), but their success is largely attributable to their excellent defense rather than the play of the former first-round pick. Pickett has only had one multi-touchdown performance as a starter in 23 games, throwing for 13 touchdowns and the same number of interceptions. For now, he’s the best option available to the Steelers, but his time in Pittsburgh is limited.Las Vegas Raiders’ Aidan O’Connell | GRADE: D+
Although the rookie fourth-round pick has shown signs of being a capable backup for the Raiders’ next starting quarterback, his miserable three-interception performance against Miami on Sunday suggests otherwise. In four of his five games played, O’Connell, who has thrown for 946 yards, three touchdowns, and six interceptions, has been picked off.
