Rookie quarterbacks being drafted can lead to moments of euphoria. It’s a time for myth-making and well-wishing. Every rookie quarterback will be good and they will be good right away, especially the one on my favorite team. Sunshine and rainbows for everyone.
It has been over a month since the draft was completed. OTAs and minicamps are in session. It’s beginning to sink in how real everything is now that we’ve finally gotten to see all of these rookie quarterbacks in their NFL uniforms. As a result, the true meaning of a successful rookie season begins to light on each rookie. What it will take, how each rookie can get there, and what type of support they will receive along the way. However, the bar will be different for all rookie quarterbacks.
Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears
Williams’ first season will be surrounded by more anticipation than one would expect from a club that would normally choose first overall. The Bears feature three talented NFL receivers who can all play a variety of roles, as well as a strong offensive line that excels at the bookends. Williams should receive a lot of assistance from Chicago’s defense as well.
Williams should be the clear favorite to win Rookie of the Year. As easy as that is. However, Williams will need to learn to play better within the system in the NFL. As one of the most talented rookie quarterbacks Williams took on a lot himself at USC. He must trust his playmakers and X factors at the professional level.
Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders
Daniels could have a chance to win Rookie of the Year. His general accuracy and athleticism are a nice place to start. But Daniels arguably shouldn’t be the favorite for the award given the offensive line’s problems and his own shortcomings. Rather, Daniels’s success ought to manifest with his growth as a passer. Not only as a rookie but also in the long run, Daniels would benefit greatly from improved pocket control and an increase in aggression over the middle. The Commanders can feel satisfied with their choice at the end of the season if Daniels can demonstrate life in such areas.
Drake Maye, New England Patriots
Rookie of the Year is certainly out of Maye’s reach considering the supporting cast of the Patriots. There isn’t a dependable veteran wide receiver who can serve as his safety net. Most of them are fellow rookies and mid-tier role players. The offensive line is mediocre at best while appearing better than it is at first.
For all those involved, 2024 will be a year of improvement for the Patriots offense. In light of this, a good season for Maye would include displaying glimpses of his top-10 quarterback ability and making some progress in resolving his footwork problems. That should be plenty to give the Patriots confidence in their player going ahead.
J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota Vikings
Many want McCarthy to win Rookie of the Year. It’s difficult to ignore that sensation with the team, supporting cast, and coach he’s playing for. However, McCarthy is a pretty green player. The 21-year-old comes from an offense that won a National Championship without requiring him to be the man.
McCarthy should aim to demonstrate that he can manage the Kevin O’Connell offense’s core while also showing glimpses of elite quarterback ability. This season is a success if the Vikings conclude. That for the next 4-5 years the team can win with McCarthy as the starting quarterback.
Bo Nix, Denver Broncos
Nix doesn’t have to come in to become the franchise’s savior. He doesn’t have to blow everyone away or win Rookie of the Year. Nix must be precise and astute with the football above everything else. That’s something we can count on from him. To top it off, Nix would have to demonstrate some degree of adaptability in the way Sean Payton manages the offense, which would be a departure from both Nix’s approach at Oregon and Payton’s plan from the previous season considering the offensive limitations Russell Wilson placed on the team.
Above all else Nix showing he can handle the Payton offense will get him a long way. Gradually learning from week to week. If by the end of the season, Nix shows he can handle running the Payton offense in their style the Broncos may have a winner.
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