NFL quarterback rankings: Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady lead way
Phil Simms Division
11. Derek Carr
Many would expect Carr to be higher, but not yet. Over the past two seasons, Carr has only beaten two eventual playoff teams, sporting a 2-10 record. Both wins came against Brock Osweiler. Still, the Raiders are in great hands with Carr, who has ample talent around him heading into his fourth year.
10. Jameis Winston
Winston has all the physical talent in the world, something that made him the first-overall pick two years ago. That said, the dumb interceptions have to stop. If he can curtail the turnovers (he’s had 33 interceptions and 16 fumbles in two years), both he and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers can take the next step.
9. Matthew Stafford
Stafford was recently made the highest-paid NFL player ever, putting a target on his back. Despite playing with mediocre or poor Detroit Lions teams his whole career, Stafford has thrown for 4,000+ yards in each of the past six seasons. However, Stafford has endured the same issues as Carr against good teams, going 5-46 against clubs finishing with winning records.
8. Dak Prescott
No star is rising quicker at the quarterback position than Prescott’s. The former Ole Miss standout led the Dallas Cowboys to a 13-3 record and home-field advantage in the NFC playoffs last year, and looks primed to get better in 2017. Prescott is surrounded by an elite supporting cast, and after throwing for 23 touchdowns against four interceptions, the sky is the limit.
Troy Aikman Division
7. Philip Rivers
Quietly, Rivers has put together a tremendous career. The 35-year-old has thrown for more than 4,000 yards in eight of his past nine seasons, along with 314 career touchdown passes. His interceptions are high –he’s led the NFL in two of the previous three years — but his talent is undeniable. If they stay healthy, Rivers has a chance to lead the Los Angeles Chargers back to the postseason.
6. Matt Ryan
After winning the MVP and getting the Atlanta Falcons to the Super Bowl, Ryan deserves this lofty spot. He’s not higher because both his personal and league history say he’ll regress some this season, but that isn’t to take away from his considerable skills. With a stacked offense around him, Ryan could very well have another year of 4,500 yards and 30+ touchdowns.
5. Russell Wilson
The stats aren’t eye-popping for Wilson, but his skill set is unmatched at the position. Wilson plays behind an awful offensive line and has never had an All-Pro weapon, and still moves the Seattle Seahawks with ease. Last year, the Super Bowl champion threw for 4,219 yards, continuing his annual trend of increasing his yardage total. Don’t expect that to stop.