The NFL preseason has concluded, leaving us eagerly awaiting the opening week of the 2023 season. This period allowed rookie quarterbacks to experience the heat of live action, and overall, the 2023 class showcased promising performances. However, the value of preseason success remains a subject of debate, with some considering it a significant predictor of future football ability, while others regard it as inconsequential. As with most things, the truth lies somewhere in between. While preseason outcomes do not definitively determine a player’s professional trajectory, they do provide insights into their development and tendencies on the field.
Rookie Quarterbacks and Team Dynamics:
It should come as no surprise that rookie quarterbacks playing for talented teams generally fare well during the preseason. This observation should not diminish the accomplishments of Nathan Rourke or Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who exhibited commendable performances. However, it is a fact that playing alongside a talented and deep roster can make a quarterback’s transition easier.
The Battle of the “Big 3”:
Among the highly anticipated quarterback prospects—Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and Anthony Richardson—it became evident during the preseason that their battles for the starting role did not pan out as expected. While none of these top quarterbacks exhibited outstanding statistical brilliance, Young appears to be the most NFL-ready of the trio, demonstrating promising signs for the season ahead.
Will Levis: An Unfortunate Absence:
Will Levis did not make this list due to his limited playing time, having thrown fewer than 20 passes during the preseason owing to an injury. Despite the small sample size, Levis’s performance failed to impress, with a completion rate of 9-for-14, 85 yards, one interception, and a passer rating of 51.2.
Enter Aidan O’Connell:
One quarterback who made a remarkable impression during the preseason was Aidan O’Connell. While his plays might not have generated fireworks on the field, O’Connell showcased commendable composure in the pocket and an ability to sustain drives. With potential concerns surrounding Jimmy Garoppolo’s performance and the possibility of early-season losses for the Las Vegas Raiders, O’Connell’s command of the offense might position him as a viable option later in the season, adding intrigue to the Raiders’ quarterback dynamics.
Evaluating rookie quarterbacks based solely on their preseason performances can be a slippery slope. While it is essential to consider statistical data, it is equally vital to account for factors such as team dynamics, player development, and on-field tendencies. Ultimately, the preseason acts as a stepping stone towards understanding a quarterback’s potential, but it cannot definitively predict their professional success. As we eagerly await the 2023 NFL season to kick off, it remains to be seen how these rookie quarterbacks will fare when faced with regular-season challenges.
The Business Press 