CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin ranked all 32 backup quarterbacks heading into the 2023 season.
Chargers’ fifth-year signal-caller Easton Stick was near the bottom of the crop, checking in at No. 25 overall.
49ers’ Trey Lance and Sam Darnold were No. 1. Panthers’ Andy Dalton was No. 2. Ravens’ Tyler Huntley was No. 3. Commanders’ Jacoby Brissett was No. 4. Falcons’ Taylor Heinicke rounded out the top five.
Here is what Benjamin had to say about Stick’s ranking:
Entering Year 5, Stick has thrown just a single NFL pass. But the former NDSU title-winner has always had respected pocket movement and leadership, and he’s drawn positive spring reports taking over for the departed Chase Daniel.
Los Angeles and Stick, the team’s 2019 fifth-round pick, agreed to a one-year deal to bring him back earlier this offseason.
Even though Stick has only taken two snaps during the regular season, which came in 2020, he has flashed athleticism during the preseason, the coaches have praised his ability to run the practice scout team, and he has a close relationship with Justin Herbert.
Stick has played ten preseason games, with 144 passes attempted.
The Chargers are hoping Stick does not have to make regular-season appearances because it would take a huge toll on the team if Herbert were to miss time due to any circumstances.