NFL quarterback rankings, Week 2: Alex Smith turns into Dan Marino

Rich Gannon Division

11. Jameis Winston (Prev: 10)

Winston will open up his season against the Bears on Sunday, a game that should get his train rolling. The Buccaneers surrounded him with a bevy of talents including DeSean Jackson, Mike Evans and O.J. Howard. The former Florida State star should have a big campaign.

10. Derek Carr (Prev: 11)

Carr played excellently in Tennessee, hitting on 22-of-32 for 262 yards and a pair of touchdowns. The Raiders’ offense looked balanced and dangerous, while Carr continues to mature as a passer. Nice start to 2017.

9. Philip Rivers (Prev: 7)

Rivers had a brutal start to his season. The Chargers and he looked utterly lost all night, with Rivers under 100 passing yards deep into the fourth quarter. We know the veteran can play, but this was a rough beginning to 2017.

8. Matthew Stafford (Prev: 9)

Stafford started slow with a pick-six in the first quarter, but he was rolling by game’s end. The highest-paid player in NFL history hit on 29-of-41 for 292 yards with four touchdowns. The Lions made the playoffs last year, and perhaps they aren’t getting enough love in 2017.

7. Dak Prescott (Prev: 8)

Prescott wasn’t great on Sunday night in Dallas’ 19-3 win, but he was more than good enough. The second-year passer hit on 24-of39 for 268 yards and a touchdown while avoiding a turnover. Against one of the league’s best defenses, that’s solid.