NFL quarterback rankings, Week 1: Patrick Mahomes sets the pace
QB. 24. player. Scouting Report. Jacksonville Jaguars. Gardner Minshew. 52. Pick Analysis
2019 stats: 3,271 yards | 60.6 completion % | 21 TDs | 6 INTs | 7.0 YPA | 44.6 QBR
Minshew is entering a brutal situation. The Jaguars have traded away more of their talent, and beyond receiver D.J. Chark, there are no proven playmakers in Duval. Minshew’s tape suggests he can continue improving, but he’ll be stressed to do so.
QB. Joe Burrow. Pick Analysis. Cincinnati Bengals. 23. player. 56. Scouting Report
2019 stats: N/A
Burrow could be a star quickly in Cincinnati. The weapons are legitimate and the defense isn’t, which means throwing, throwing and more throwing. Without a true offseason, Burrow might struggle early but should finish strong.
Scouting Report. Derek Carr. 22. Pick Analysis. QB. Las Vegas Raiders. player. 28
2019 stats: 4,054 yards | 70.4 completion % | 21 TDs | 8 INTs | 7.9 YPA | 64.1 QBR
Carr had a good season last year, as evidenced by the numbers above. Still, with the Raiders signing Marcus Mariota, it’s clear the braintrust in Las Vegas isn’t sold. If Carr plans to be with the Silver and Black beyond this season, he’ll need to make more chunk plays.
New England Patriots. Cam Newton. 21. 47. QB. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. player
2019 stats: 572 yards | 56.2 completion % | 0 TDs | 1 INTs | 6.4 YPA | 22.5 QBR
This is about health. If Newton can stay on the field, he’ll rise through the rankings. Unfortunately, he’s coming off foot and shoulder surgeries over the past two seasons. On the wrong side of 30, Newton is facing an uphill battle to replace Tom Brady in New England.
Scouting Report. Philip Rivers. 20. player. Pick Analysis. QB. Indianapolis Colts. 46
2019 stats: 3,615 yards | 66.0 completion % | 23 TDs | 20 INTs | 7.8 YPA | 50.5 QBR
Can Rivers recapture his magic in Indianapolis? Last year was his worst as a starter with the Los Angeles Chargers, leading to a parting of ways. The offensive line is far better in Indy and the Colts have young weapons, but is Rivers’ declining arm too much to overcome?
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. QB. Cleveland Browns. Baker Mayfield. 19. player. 53
2019 stats: 3,827 yards | 59.4 completion % | 22 TDs | 21 INTs | 7.2 YPA | 54.4 QBR
This is a huge, huge season for Mayfield. Entering his third year, Mayfield is on his third head coach and second general manager. The Cleveland Browns arguably have the best offensive talent this side of Kansas City. If he doesn’t limit the mistakes and improve his accuracy, Mayfield could be an interesting fifth-year option discussion.