NFL Quarterback Drought: Where Are the Next Stars?

0:00On this March 5th, here's what's making headlines for the NFL. The NFL is facing a real shortage of breakout young quarterbacks. For years now, the top of the list has stayed the same with Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, and Joe Burrill leading the pack. Even with kids getting elite training and camps from a young age, no new names have truly cracked that group. Matthew Stafford might squeeze into the top five, but that's about it. Recent drafts have been especially thin at the position. Last year, just two quarterbacks went in the first round. Cam Ward at number one, and Jackson Dart at 25. This year looks similar, with maybe only Fernando Mendoza, and Ty Simpson hearing their names called early. Teams desperate for help, like the Indianapolis Colts, even signed retired Philip Rivers and started him right away over their rookie. Coaches and scouts at the combine just shrugged when asked about the drought. It's left franchises like the Cleveland Browns stuck in a 25-year search for a franchise guy.

1:01They had top 10 picks and back-to-back drafts, but passed on quarterbacks both times, showing how tough the timing can be. Experts point in name, image, and likeness deals keeping top college talent in school longer for big money. Constant transfer between schools might be hurting development too, unlike the old days when guys stayed put for three or four years. Veterans like Joe Flacco proving they can jump back in highlights how much the mental game matters over pure athleticism. Looking ahead, classes from 2021 to 2023 have been bust heavy with six of nine first round picks flaming out. The 2024 group offers some hope, and 2027 could bring a wave with prospects like archmaning. Until then, quarterback needy teams keep waiting and wondering. This story is made possible by our sponsor. Do not just fall asleep, drift into what you are listening to. to have to do the do