This year’s NFL rookie class has been the talk of the town, especially when it comes to the quarterbacks. With the likes of Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson, and Justin Fields, the potential of this year’s class is undeniable. However, as we enter the third week of the NFL season, some of these highly-touted rookies are struggling, causing some to question whether they are living up to the hype.
One of the most talked-about rookies is Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence. The first overall pick in this year’s draft, Lawrence was hailed as a generational talent and the savior of the Jaguars franchise. However, through two weeks, Lawrence has yet to live up to those expectations. He has thrown five interceptions and only one touchdown, leading some to wonder if he is truly ready for the NFL.
But before we start writing off Lawrence, let’s not forget that he is still a rookie. It takes time for any quarterback, no matter how talented, to adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL. Plus, Lawrence is playing for a struggling Jaguars team with a new head coach and a young supporting cast. It’s unfair to expect him to carry the team on his shoulders right away.
Another rookie quarterback who has faced criticism is New York Jets’ Zach Wilson. The second overall pick has also struggled in his first two games, throwing five interceptions and only two touchdowns. However, like Lawrence, Wilson is playing for a team that is in the midst of a rebuild. He is also adjusting to a new system and facing much tougher competition than he did in college. It’s important to give these young quarterbacks time to develop and learn from their mistakes.
But it’s not just the top two picks who have faced challenges in their first two games. Chicago Bears’ Justin Fields, the 11th overall pick, has also had a rough start to his NFL career. Fields has only played a handful of snaps and has yet to throw a touchdown pass. But again, he is a rookie, and the Bears have a veteran quarterback in Andy Dalton ahead of him on the depth chart. It’s understandable that they are taking their time with Fields and giving him the opportunity to learn and grow before throwing him into the fire.
It’s important to remember that these rookies are still adjusting to the NFL. They are facing much tougher competition than they did in college, and they are playing for teams that are in various stages of rebuilding. It’s unrealistic to expect them to come in and immediately dominate the league. They need time to develop and learn from their mistakes, and it’s up to their coaches and teammates to support them and help them reach their full potential.
But despite the struggles of some of these rookie quarterbacks, there are still plenty of reasons to be excited about this year’s class. Mac Jones, the 15th overall pick, has shown poise and maturity beyond his years as the starting quarterback for the New England Patriots. He has thrown for 467 yards and three touchdowns, with only one interception, in his first two games. Jones may not have the same physical tools as some of the other rookie quarterbacks, but he has the potential to be a successful NFL quarterback.
Another rookie quarterback who has impressed is San Francisco 49ers’ Trey Lance. The third overall pick has only played a handful of snaps, but he has already shown off his impressive arm strength and athleticism. With veteran Jimmy Garoppolo ahead of him on the depth chart, the 49ers are taking their time with Lance, but it’s clear that he has a bright future ahead of him.
In conclusion, it’s too early to judge this year’s rookie quarterbacks. Yes, some of them have struggled in their first two games, but that is to be expected. They are still adjusting to the NFL, and it takes time to develop and reach their full potential. Let’s give these young quarterbacks the time and support they need to succeed, and we may just witness one of the best rookie classes in NFL history.
