NFL Draft 2024: Why first quarterback selected hasn’t always turned out to be the best

In one month, the 2024 NFL Draft is to commence, with multiple quarterbacks expected to be taken in the first round. Chicago holds the first overall selection as part of last year’s trade with the Panthers, but selecting the first quarterback does not necessarily mean that team will walk away with the draft’s best quarterback.

Situation matters; coaching and a strong supporting cast are vital for a young quarterback, as they lay a foundation for the rest of his career. Few are truly unable to carry the team out of the mud. The Bears should be commended for the moves they have made over the past two years to support their current and future quarterbacks: acquiring wide receivers Keenan Allen and D.J. Moore, as well as offensive tackle Darnell Wright and depth along the offensive line. They are well-positioned to add another difference-maker at No. 9 overall. 

Here is a look at the first five quarterbacks selected in each draft class since 2010:

2023

1. Bryce Young, Alabama (No. 1 overall)
2. C.J. Stroud, Ohio State (No. 2 overall)
3. Anthony Richardson, Florida (No. 4 overall)
4. Will Levis, Kentucky (No. 33 overall)
5. Hendon Hooker, Tennessee (No. 68 overall)

Other notable: Aidan O’Connell, Purdue (No. 135 overall), Dorian Thompson-Robinson, UCLA (No. 140 overall)

Young really struggled as a rookie but the surrounding situation was less than ideal. Carolina did not give him the pass-catchers or protection that would allow him to have a fighting chance. The jury is still out long term.

There is no confusion with Stroud, who had one of the best rookie seasons by a quarterback in quite some time. The Texans are in a great position to capitalize on his rookie contract as a result of his play. They advanced beyond the wild-card round in his first season. Richardson dealt with injuries and missed the majority of the 2023 season. He showed promise in a small sample size, however. 

An…

..

Read More

You might like