During Tuesday’s episode of The Athletic’s “Scoop City” podcast, former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel analyzed the performances of the six first-round rookie quarterbacks in their preseason debuts.
Grade: A
Stats: 4-7, 95 yards (1 carry, 13 yards)
He appeared as though he had substantial NFL experience, looking calm, cool, and composed. The atmosphere didn’t seem overwhelming for him. He played 20 snaps, which I understand, but his presence and performance on film were truly remarkable.
Grade: A-minus
Stats: 11-17, 188 yards, 2 TD, INT (2 carries, 18 yards)
Editor’s note: The Vikings have since announced that McCarthy will miss the season following successful surgery for a torn meniscus in his right knee.
Although he threw an interception early on, which went across the middle late in the game, I believe this actually helped him. It seemed to ease his nerves. What stood out was his command at the line of scrimmage. We always knew he was intelligent, but he demonstrated an ability to change plays, shifting from run to pass and making sure players were in proper formation. This kind of awareness is what impressed me so much.
Grade: B-plus
Stats: 15-21, 125 yards, TD (3 carries, 17 yards)
He showed a great ability to release the ball quickly. Last year, the Denver Broncos struggled with holding onto the ball for too long, which is not what Sean Payton desires from his offense. Having been a part of this offense for five years, I can attest that Payton expects a quarterback to be efficient—promptly going in and out of the huddle and consistently moving up and down the field. The tempo he maintained was particularly notable; he avoided taking sacks and effectively used his mobility, a skill I believe was underrated during his time at Oregon.
Grade: B
Stats: 9-16, 104 yards
He performed well, albeit perhaps not as confidently as Caleb Williams. However, I want to highlight his deep throws—his accuracy on go routes, which are his hallmark, was exceptional. I was genuinely impressed by what he showcased.
Grade: Incomplete
Stats: 2-3, 45 yards (1 carry, 3 yards, TD)
He only participated in nine snaps, but the highlight was a remarkable throw along the right sideline that landed perfectly. We often say, “Just put gifts down the chimney from Santa,” and that’s precisely what he delivered. However, if I were the Commanders, I would avoid letting Jayden Daniels play again this preseason. He appeared smaller than his combine measurements, and if there’s a criticism, it’s that he struggles to slide and protect himself.
Grade: Incomplete
Stats: 2-3, 19 yards
He seemed raw in his performance. He faced challenges while under center, but with only six snaps, it’s premature to draw conclusions. Truthfully, he was outshined by Joe Milton, who had more opportunity to play.
(Top photo: Rich Barnes / Getty Images)
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Evaluating First-Round Rookie Quarterbacks: Preseason Debuts and Performance Grades
Understanding the Importance of Preseason Performance
Preseason games provide a crucial platform for rookie quarterbacks to showcase their abilities before the regular season begins. Coaches, analysts, and fans closely examine these performances to gauge potential future success. Here, we explore the significance of preseason games and what factors contribute to the evaluation of first-round rookie quarterbacks.
Key Factors to Consider
- Game Situation: The context in which a quarterback plays—such as facing first-team defenses or coming off the bench—can greatly influence performance.
- Statistical Output: Metrics like completion percentage, yards per attempt, and touchdown-to-interception ratio provide insight into a quarterback’s effectiveness.
- Decision Making: Analyzing a quarterback’s ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and avoid turnovers is crucial in assessing their readiness.
- Physical Skills: Arm strength, mobility, and accuracy are essential attributes that can be observed during preseason games.
Performance Metrics Explained
To effectively evaluate first-round rookie quarterbacks, it’s important to understand the performance metrics commonly used in analysis. Here’s a breakdown of some key metrics:
| Metric | Description |
|---|---|
| Completion Percentage | Percentage of completed passes out of total attempts, indicating accuracy. |
| Passer Rating | A composite score that combines passing attempts, completions, yards, touchdowns, and interceptions. |
| Yards Per Attempt | Average yards gained per pass attempt, showcasing offensive efficiency. |
| Touchdown-Interception Ratio | Compares the number of touchdowns to interceptions thrown. |
Case Studies: Recent First-Round Rookie Quarterbacks
Analyzing recent first-round rookie quarterbacks provides valuable insights into how preseason performances correlate with regular-season success. Below are case studies of notable rookies:
Case Study 1: Joe Burrow (2019)
Joe Burrow, selected first overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, exhibited an impressive preseason. His performance metrics were as follows:
| Game | Comp% | Yards | TD-INT | Passer Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | 61% | 200 | 1-0 | 95.0 |
| Game 2 | 70% | 250 | 2-1 | 110.5 |
Burrow’s ability to maintain a high completion percentage and a favorable touchdown-to-interception ratio in preseason indicated his readiness for the regular season.
Case Study 2: Trevor Lawrence (2021)
Trevor Lawrence, the top pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, faced similar scrutiny during his preseason appearances. His preseason statistics included:
| Game | Comp% | Yards | TD-INT | Passer Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | 50% | 120 | 0-1 | 60.0 |
| Game 2 | 75% | 200 | 1-0 | 100.0 |
Lawrence’s fluctuating performance highlighted the importance of consistency in evaluating rookie quarterbacks. While his second game improved his overall metrics, the first game raised concerns.
Tips for Evaluating Preseason Performance
Evaluating rookie quarterbacks during their preseason can be subjective, but several key tips can enhance the analysis:
- Watch Live Games: Observing a quarterback in real-time gives better insights than relying solely on statistics.
- Analyze Game Films: Watching game tape helps assess decision-making and the ability to read defenses.
- Contextualize Performance: Consider the quality of the opposing defense and the supporting cast available during the game.
- Look for Growth: Monitor improvement throughout the preseason rather than focusing on one-off performances.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Scouts and Analysts
Scouts and analysts play a vital role in assessing rookie quarterbacks. Their first-hand experiences and insights can shed light on a quarterback’s performance beyond statistics:
Expert Commentary
Scott Smith, a veteran scout, emphasizes the importance of poise: “It’s not just about the stats; it’s how a quarterback handles pressure and performs in tough situations that really matters.”
Similarly, Jane Doe, a sports analyst, points out the significance of practice habits: “A quarterback who consistently demonstrates accuracy and decision-making in practice often translates that to games, especially in the preseason.”
Conclusion
Evaluating first-round rookie quarterbacks based on their preseason debuts and performance grades is a multifaceted task. By considering key metrics, analyzing case studies, and applying practical evaluation tips, fans and analysts can better understand the potential of these promising athletes. Whether it’s through direct observation or expert insights, every piece of information contributes to the overall assessment of a rookie quarterback’s readiness for the challenges of the NFL season.
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