A common theme emerged last spring.
This was a bad class of rookie quarterbacks.
Perhaps that view has shifted. Over the past few weeks we have seen the rookie passers take the field, and in many instances, they have outperformed expectations. Kenny Pickett is pushing for the starting job in Pittsburgh, Malik Willis’ game seems to translate well to the NFL, Desmond Ridder seems ready to handle the starting role in Atlanta, and Sam Howell is pushing Carson Wentz in Washington.
Even players who went in later rounds — or even undrafted — are making strong cases for roster spots.
Let’s dive into the rookie passers who have seen significant playing time this preseason and highlight what they have done well, and where they can still improve.
Carolina fans, unfortunately Matt Corral, who was lost for the season with a Lisfranc injury, is not part of the analysis here due to his limited action.