This is the final, post-Super Bowl LIX rankings of every quarterback who started a game during the 2024 NFL campaign -- based on play from the regular season AND the playoffs. Here are my rankings, 1 through 59.
2024 stats: 19 games | 67.3 pct | 4,601 pass yds | 8.8 ypa | 45 pass TD | 5 INT | 1,035 rush yds | 4 rush TD | 11 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 1 | 2022: 12 | 2021: 14 | 2020: 7 | 2019: 1 | 2018: 23
For as excellent as Jackson's 2023 MVP season was, his 2024 campaign was better in almost every category. Jackson posted career-best totals in passing touchdowns and passing yards, threw just four interceptions, ran for nearly 1,000 yards, added four rushing scores and powered the Ravens, and their top-ranked offense, to 12 regular-season wins and the AFC North title. Just two elements were missing from his best overall season: a signature playoff win (and/or Super Bowl run) and a third league MVP. If it was up to me, No. 8 would have won No. 3. In a field filled with fantastic signal-callers, Jackson reigns supreme -- again.
2024 stats: 20 games | 64.6 pct | 4,367 pass yds | 7.7 ypa | 32 pass TD | 6 INT | 636 rush yds | 14 rush TD | 8 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 2 | 2022: 4 | 2021: 3 | 2020: 5 | 2019: 18 | 2018: 32
Yep, the 2024 league MVP isn't the top-ranked player in this year's final QB Index. As fantastic as Allen was this year, I simply thought Jackson was better. That's not meant as a slight against the Bills passer, though, or to take anything away from his exceptional season. One of the NFL's most effective running QBs, Allen seemed to make magic on a weekly basis as he led Buffalo to a 13-4 record and an AFC title game appearance. And though he was visibly nervous early in the playoff tilt at Kansas City, he ultimately settled in and nearly led Buffalo to its first Super Bowl appearance in decades. His inability to solve the Chiefs in the playoffs remains one of the few blemishes on his résumé. Perhaps he will in 2025.
2024 stats: 17 games | 70.6 pct | 4,918 pass yds | 7.5 ypa | 43 pass TD | 9 INT | 201 rush yds | 2 rush TD | 11 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 16 | 2022: 3 | 2021: 6 | 2020: 18
By the time the dust settles on Burrow's NFL career, his 2024 season will probably be forgotten by many. That would be unfortunate and truly unfair because Burrow was incredible this year. With a leaky defense making nearly every early-season contest an uphill climb, Burrow repeatedly put the Bengals on his back and trudged up the slope with determination. He almost single-handedly kept Cincinnati in the playoff hunt all the way into the final week of the season. That the Bengals ultimately fell short of a postseason berth isn't at all on Burrow, who likely would've garnered MVP consideration had his supporting cast, well, supported him better in 2024.
2024 stats: 18 games | 71.3 pct | 4,942 pass yds | 8.5 ypa | 38 pass TD | 15 INT | 63 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 7 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 4 | 2022: 8 | 2021: 23 | 2020: 22 | 2019: 20 | 2018: 7 | 2017: 15 | 2016: 32
Under the direction of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, Goff had his best NFL season to date in 2024. Although his final numbers mirrored some of the totals he'd posted during his Rams tenure, the visual difference was stark. Goff appeared supremely confident for most of the campaign, feasting on the middle of the field and using his live arm to execute Johnson's dastardly schemes to near perfection. In doing so, he helped the Lions finish with the No. 2 offense in total yards per game and passing yards per game. It's this fact that made Detroit's Divisional Round loss to Washington so shocking: For seemingly the first time all season, the Lions weren't sharp offensively, starting with Goff. Their one-and-done exit stunned the football world and soured Goff's season slightly, but from a big-picture perspective, it's still incredibly difficult to downplay what he did in 2024.
2024 stats: 20 games | 68.4 pct | 4,390 pass yds | 7.4 ypa | 30 pass TD | 10 INT | 1,026 rush yds | 7 rush TD | 5 fumbles
The 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year's arrival to Washington will be remembered as the moment the Commanders franchise was reborn. Daniels proved he was ready for the NFL from the jump, never appearing overwhelmed by the speed of the game. He formed an excellent partnership with offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, powered the Commanders to a 7-2 start and made a name for himself as a late-game hero, leading Washington to a number of heart-stopping wins en route to a 12-5 finish and two road playoff upsets. His final victory was his most triumphant: a 45-31 stunner over the top-seeded Detroit Lions in the Divisional Round.
2024 stats: 18 games | 71.8 pct | 4,685 pass yds | 8.0 ypa | 43 pass TD | 16 INT | 401 rush yds | 3 rush TD | 14 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 11 | 2022: 39 | 2021: 25 | 2020: 11 | 2019: 24 | 2018: 12
Mayfield's 2023 renaissance earned him a new contract, but also queued up the doubters who believed he had little chance of replicating such success under a different offensive coordinator in 2024. Boy, were they wrong. Mayfield outdid himself this season, resetting his previous career-highs in passing yards, touchdowns and completion percentage. Those new marks look even more impressive when you consider he produced the bulk of his production without one or both of his top pass-catchers, with Chris Godwin sustaining a season-ending injury in Week 7 and Mike Evans missing three games, as well. In their absence, Mayfield kept Tampa competitive by successfully leaning on lesser-known names. Under his direction, the Bucs offense transformed into a team capable of exploding for 30-plus points in any given week, as they did three times over their final seven games (six wins). His performance proved Tampa was right to take a flier on him in 2023 and cemented his status as the franchise's QB1.
2024 stats: 19 games | 67.3 pct | 4,607 pass yds | 6.9 ypa | 31 pass TD | 13 INT | 389 rush yds | 4 rush TD | 5 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 3 | 2022: 1 | 2021: 7 | 2020: 3 | 2019: 2 | 2018: 1 | 2017: N/A
On the surface, 2024 might seem like a down year for Mahomes, who finished below 4,000 passing yards for the first time as a full-time starter in his career. But dig a bit deeper, and there's definitely more to the story for both Mahomes and his Chiefs. The two-time MVP was the reason why Kansas City, despite lacking explosiveness, won 15 games, secured the AFC's top seed and took the conference title yet again. He consistently converted on money downs for K.C., often in ugly fashion, and did the yeoman's work that was necessary to win games. Because of Mahomes, the Chiefs eventually found their stride late in the season, ascending at the perfect time and peaking in the AFC Championship Game, their first 30-plus-point showing of 2024. Tragically, he saved his worst for last, getting snowed under by the Eagles’ fantastic defense in Super Bowl LIX. He lost his trust in his offensive line and his decision-making suffered because of it, producing perhaps the most disastrous outing of his career in the biggest contest of the season.
2024 stats: 18 games | 65.5 pct | 4,295 pass yds | 7.3 ypa | 24 pass TD | 8 INT | 45 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 8 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 5 | 2022: 22 | 2021: 5 | 2020: 13 | 2019: 9 | 2018: 16 | 2017: 8 | 2016: 8 | 2015: 19 | 2014: 17 | 2013: 13
Stafford was perhaps the most difficult quarterback to pin down this season because the range of his performances varied rather significantly. His good was still good, but his bad was surprisingly ugly. That all seemed to wash away at the perfect time, though, when Stafford overcame a regular-season-ending slump to lead the Rams to a double-digit win over the Vikings on Wild Card Weekend before nearly propelling them to a comeback win at Philadelphia in the Divisional Round. Stafford's future is very much uncertain as of now, but he proved he still has it in the biggest moments -- and his blend of talent and mettle won’t be easily replaced.
2024 stats: 18 games | 69.2 pct | 3,629 pass yds | 8.0 ypa | 23 pass TD | 6 INT | 824 rush yds | 19 rush TD | 10 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 14 | 2022: 2 | 2021: 17 | 2020: 23
The Eagles' passing attack was not their strength for most of 2024, but because they had Saquon Barkley, they didn't need it to be. However, the postseason proved Hurts can certainly still get the job done in the biggest moments. The two-time Pro Bowler helped the Eagles outlast the Rams on a snowy day in the Divisional Round, guided them in a romp over the Commanders in the NFC title game and then put together an MVP-winning performance in Super Bowl LIX. Hurts was an excellent runner on designed rushes, consistently cashed in on goal-line sneak opportunities and saved his best for the biggest stage, dropping the mic on his haters.
2024 stats: 16 games | 62.9 pct | 3,601 pass yds | 7.9 ypa | 25 pass TD | 14 INT | 93 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 4 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 12 | 2022: N/A | 2021: 49 | 2020: N/A
We know Love's potential and we know what he can be when he's at his best, but because of injury or inconsistency, he only occasionally reached that standard in 2024. That doesn't mean it wasn't a successful season for Love, because it was -- it just didn't quite meet the sky-high expectations that emerged after a scintillating end to the 2023 season. The way his year ended, a three-interception outing in a Wild Card loss to the Eagles, didn't help his final standing here, either.
2024 stats: 18 games | 64.6 pct | 4,112 pass yds | 7.7 ypa | 24 pass TD | 7 INT | 306 rush yds | 2 rush TD | 6 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 17 | 2022: 5 | 2021: 4 | 2020: 9
Herbert dealt with an ankle injury that all but immobilized him early in the campaign and didn't find his form as a passer until the midpoint of the season, but once he did, we were all reminded of why he's held in such high regard. The fifth-year pro established a highly productive connection with rookie receiver Ladd McConkey and was able to keep the Chargers' offense afloat even after their running game faded into the background. That made his postseason meltdown -- a four-interception nightmare in Houston -- that much more confusing. But if I learned anything from Herbert in 2024, it's that he's still the same high-ceiling QB. He just needs more weapons.
2024 stats: 17 games | 70.4 pct | 4,320 pass yds | 7.5 ypa | 21 pass TD | 15 INT | 272 rush yds | 2 rush TD | 9 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 19 | 2022: 9 | 2021: 40 | 2020-14: N/A | 2013: 31
Smith's 2024 season proved what we saw from him in 2023 wasn't a fluke. He's a veteran with an incredibly accurate arm, who's capable of making big-time throws with zero fear (check the Atlanta tape for proof) and going toe to toe with the league's best when the moment calls for it. Sometimes, though, those successes led Smith to trust himself too much, resulting in some crushing (and costly) mistakes. Considering the Seahawks finished the year outside of the playoff picture, Smith likely wishes he had some of those throws back. That all said, I do want to recognize him for his toughness; he played through a knee injury to finish the season, giving it his all so Seattle could battle four a tournament spot down the stretch.
2024 stats: 18 games | 66.0 pct | 4,564 pass yds | 7.8 ypa | 36 pass TD | 13 INT | 231 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 9 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 55 | 2022: 38 | 2021: 42 | 2020: 36 | 2019: 26 | 2018: 24
Darnold's season was straight out of a football storybook. He rose from the ashes of a first-round bust bonfire and emerged, not as a phoenix, but as a fearless Viking, leading Minnesota to an unforeseeable 14-3 regular-season mark. Darnold was meant to serve as a stopgap until first-round pick J.J. McCarthy was ready to take over, but when the rookie suffered a season-ending injury in August, Darnold took the opportunity afforded him and ran with it. His production through the majority of the year led many to believe he'd be in line for a big payday this offseason -- but then a nightmarish final two weeks ended those dreams, and the Vikings' season. Darnold was at the center of Minnesota's meltdown, flopping in both Week 18 and their wild-card loss to the Rams, potentially costing himself millions of dollars in the process. That doesn't diminish all the good Darnold did in 2024, but it does call into question his value on the open market ahead of free agency.
2024 stats: 15 games | 65.9 pct | 3,864 pass yds | 8.5 ypa | 20 pass TD | 12 INT | 323 rush yds | 5 rush TD | 7 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 7 | 2022: 15
It's difficult to evaluate Purdy's season fairly because of the many injuries the 49ers suffered on both sides of the ball. They played almost the entire season without Christian McCaffrey, lost Brandon Aiyuk to injury in October and spent a considerable stretch without 11-time Pro Bowler Trent Williams, just to name a few. Still, Purdy was asked to keep the 49ers in games in which their defense, also without multiple contributors, struggled. When Purdy was on, he was on, lighting up defenses seemingly with ease. When things got particularly tough around him, though, he wasn't nearly as great, making me wonder if he's able to consistently elevate those around him. Is he a quarterback who can overcome adversity, or will he be limited by it in his career? San Francisco needs to feel comfortable in the answer, as they prepare to enter contract negotiations with him.
2024 stats: 19 games | 63.6 pct | 4,254 pass yds | 7.2 ypa | 21 pass TD | 13 INT | 317 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 8 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 8
If one needs proof of how important an offensive line is to a quarterback, you'll find it in Stroud's 2024 season. His protection was atrocious, and by the middle point of the year, it was clearly affecting him mentally. Stroud began to make uncharacteristic mistakes with his accuracy and decision-making, and it wasn't until the final few weeks of the campaign that he finally found comfortable footing. Those outings helped Stroud finish strong, as he led the Texans to a playoff win and a competitive showing in a Divisional Round loss to the Chiefs. Houston's offensive coordinator change was a good place to start in addressing the unit's issues. Add in some new investments along the O-line in the coming months, and Stroud should get right back on track in 2025.
2024 stats: 14 games | 60.9 pct | 2,403 pass yds | 6.3 ypa | 15 pass TD | 9 INT | 249 rush yds | 6 rush TD | 5 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 44
Young could have drifted off into football irrelevance if he wasn't mentally tough enough to overcome the challenges that faced him after the first two weeks of the season. Two dreadful outings had him on the bench by Week 3, with his days in Charlotte appearing to be numbered. But when he returned to the starting lineup in Week 8, Young made the most of his second chance, showing flashes of what made him the No. 1 overall pick in 2023. He steadily built on his small successes so effectively, it became clear by season’s end that he was the Panthers’ guy for the long haul. These types of turnarounds simply don’t happen very often, yet Young pulled it off. He’s truly become a treat to watch, and I can’t wait to see where his career goes from here.
2024 stats: 17 games | 68.8 pct | 3,851 pass yds | 7.1 ypa | 21 pass TD | 11 INT | 572 rush yds | 5 rush TD | 8 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 23 | 2022: 16 | 2021: 8 | 2020: 10 | 2019: 13
Murray started the season on quite a heater, making Cardinals games a thrill to watch early in the campaign (their win at San Francisco was truly electric). For a while, Arizona was in the playoff hunt because of Murray’s play, but a frustrating theme emerged as the season entered its later stages: The Cardinals offense was limited if the rushing attack wasn't producing. Too often down the stretch, Murray found himself in third-and-long with little more than a prayerful heave left in his arsenal to keep drives going. His overall performance was as inconsistent as the Cardinals were limited offensively, pointing toward a need for more help around him. But Murray also needs to determine whether he wants his running ability to be a bigger factor in the offense. He too frequently appeared to be conflicted between wanting to run and not wanting to run, and it negatively affected his play. If he can find a comfortable middle ground in this regard, expect him to climb these rankings next season.
2024 stats: 11 games | 72.9 pct | 2,867 pass yds | 7.2 ypa | 19 pass TD | 7 INT | 49 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 7 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 9 | 2022: 7 | 2021: 22 | 2020: 28
Tagovailoa's season was interrupted after just two weeks due to a concussion, and when he returned in Week 8, he executed Miami's offense efficiently, though without much explosiveness. He was generally sharp within the Dolphins' short-range passing game and helped the offense rediscover its competitive drive, but he and the rest of his teammates struggled to find the big plays that were once their trademark. He's incredibly valuable to their operation, but they need something to wake up the offense in 2025. Tagovailoa will also have to ignore fresh concerns regarding his durability, which are unfortunately valid following his latest extended absence -- and premature ending to his season.
2024 stats: 8 games | 64.7 pct | 1,978 pass yds | 6.9 ypa | 11 pass TD | 8 INT | 54 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 4 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 6 | 2022: 11 | 2021: 9 | 2020: 16 | 2019: 11 | 2018: 18 | 2017: 20 | 2016: 7
... Speaking of injured quarterbacks, Prescott had another of his campaigns cut short in 2024 -- this time due to a serious hamstring injury suffered in Week 9, which required surgery. Before he got hurt, though, Prescott's play had some volatility to it. In his eight starts, he had as many games with multiple TD passes (4) as he did games with multiple picks. His penchant for ghastly turnovers was compounded with a disconnect between him and his top target, CeeDee Lamb. Prescott needs more weapons and will have a new(er) offensive approach with Brian Schottenheimer taking over as head coach. But the same heavy expectations will follow him and the Cowboys into next season. In fact, the weight to make a deep playoff run may be more squarely on his shoulders now than ever.
2024 stats: 18 games | 66.0 pct | 3,919 pass yds | 6.7 ypa | 30 pass TD | 12 INT | 473 rush yds | 4 rush TD | 3 fumbles
Take a victory lap, Bo. Denver's decision to spend its first-round pick on the Oregon product was met with plenty of immediate criticism, but Sean Payton trusted his gut and showed he, and the Broncos’ front office, were correct in thinking Nix was the ideal fit for his offense. Payton consistently had his rookie passer on the move, and Nix thrived accordingly -- so much so that he generated legit Offensive Rookie of the Year buzz at midseason. Those takes tailed off once Nix encountered some difficulties, but his debut season was a resounding success nonetheless.
2024 stats: 13 games | 66.6 pct | 2,276 pass yds | 6.7 ypa | 15 pass TD | 10 INT | 421 rush yds | 2 rush TD | 9 fumbles
Maye was the memorable silver lining in a very forgettable Patriots season. Despite New England's lack of talent and general dysfunction, Maye found success and proved he was fit for the job. He has incredibly quick processing for an inexperienced quarterback, is rarely fazed by the opponent and has the physical tools to succeed in the modern NFL. The Patriots should (and hopefully will) build around him, because he's the successor they've sought since Tom Brady's departure.
2024 stats: 17 games | 63.0 pct | 3,897 pass yds | 6.7 ypa | 28 pass TD | 11 INT | 107 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 5 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 66 | 2022: 14 | 2021: 2 | 2020: 1 | 2019: 7 | 2018: 5 | 2017: 11 | 2016: 3 | 2015: 9 | 2014: 1 | 2013: T-4
With Rodgers' time with the Jets at its end, we can now look back on it with, well, acceptance that it happened. Yes, he never lived up to the stratospheric expectations he set for himself when he joined New York, but, to his credit, he wasn't that bad this past season. He got off to a slow start and showed signs of his age, but once he settled in -- albeit at a point too late to mount a playoff push -- we saw some of the old Rodgers, who could whip the ball around the field with sharpshooter-like accuracy. He even got out on the move late in the season as he finally rediscovered his connection with Davante Adams, making the last few weeks of the Jets' season surprisingly entertaining while giving speculators fresh reason to believe he just might have enough in him to help another team elsewhere. But all in all, Rodgers didn't simply ride off into the sunset at the beckon of Father Time in 2024.
2024 stats: 12 games | 64.1 pct | 2,752 pass yds | 7.5 ypa | 18 pass TD | 5 INT | 161 rush yds | 2 rush TD | 5 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 21 | 2022: 30 | 2021: 11 | 2020: 6 | 2019: 3 | 2018: 6 | 2017: 5 | 2016: 9 | 2015: 4 | 2014: 8 | 2013: 6
Wilson got his first start for the Steelers at in which Pittsburgh didn't exactly need to make a change. After all, Justin Fields had led the team off to a 4-2 start before Russ took over. But Mike Tomlin decided to go with the seasoned veteran, and it proved to be the right move. Wilson elevated the Steelers’ offensive ceiling with his passing, helping Pittsburgh peak around Thanksgiving. Things fell apart after that, though, and Wilson certainly played his part. The experienced passers, known for his decision-making, made some peculiar choices in key spots in their late-season losing streak, which lasted through their playoff exit -- a 28-14 loss to the Ravens that was never really close. Wilson was exposed when George Pickens missed time due to injury, and it’s fair to wonder whether the Steelers simply need more weapons, or if we saw the best of whatever Wilson has left in the tank during their 2024 peak.
2024 stats: 10 games | 67.7 pct | 2,145 pass yds | 7.7 ypa | 15 pass TD | 5 INT | 71 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 3 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 22 | 2022: 23 | 2021: 10 | 2020: 12 | 2019: 16 | 2018: 22 | 2017: 21 | 2016: 5 | 2015: 10 | 2014: N/A
After the first two weeks of the season, Carr looked like he'd be the engine behind a highly explosive Saints offense. Unfortunately, those two games proved to be fool's gold. New Orleans fell back to earth rapidly, then lost most of their weapons to injuries over the course of the season, forcing Carr to play with a cobbled-together group of playmakers. He was more than serviceable, though; in fact, I felt he played better in 2024 than he did in 2023, but his own season ended prematurely because to injury, bringing fresh disappointment to what has been a frustrating two-year stint in New Orleans. Kellen Moore's arrival as coach might turn things around for Carr and the Saints -- that is, if Carr is still on the roster. New Orleans can save a significant chunk of cap space if they choose to move on from Carr in March (with a post-June 1 designation).
2024 stats: 14 games | 66.9 pct | 3,508 pass yds | 7.7 ypa | 28 pass TD | 6 INT | 531 rush yds | 12 rush TD | 6 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 10 | 2022: 17 | 2021: 13 | 2020: 15 | 2019: 8 | 2018: 13 | 2017: 10 | 2016: 13 | 2015: 11 | 2014-13: N/A
Cousins initially lived up to the high expectations that typically accompany a lucrative free-agent deal, leading the Falcons to a 6-3 start while throwing for nearly 800 yards in the two games Atlanta won over NFC South rival Tampa Bay. After a while, though, cracks started to show and Cousins took on overwhelming amounts of water, allowing a dreadful run of turnover-prone football to submerge him (and the Falcons' playoff hopes) before being benched for rookie Michael Penix Jr. Cousins' days as Atlanta's QB1 are finished, but don't be surprised if he finds another opportunity to start elsewhere.
2024 stats: 10 games | 60.6 pct | 2,045 pass yds | 7.2 ypa | 11 pass TD | 7 INT | 119 rush yds | 3 rush TD | 3 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 15 | 2022: 6 | 2021: 32
Lawrence's inconsistent play from last year followed him into this season. He appeared in just 10 games in 2024 (missing the team's final five due to a concussion suffered on an illegal hit) and rarely enjoyed the kind of success that made him he face of Jacksonville's future. His season peaked in a Week 5 shootout win over the Colts, but that singular performance was overshadowed by too many games in which he made questionable decisions -- often resulting in back-breaking turnovers. Lawrence needs a reset as much as the Jaguars did at the end of 2024, which he'll get with new coach Liam Coen in town. We'll see if Coen can achieve the same success with Lawrence as he did with Baker Mayfield in Tampa.
2024 stats: 10 games | 65.8 pct | 1,106 pass yds | 6.9 ypa | 5 pass TD | 1 INT | 289 rush yds | 5 rush TD | 6 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 20 | 2022: 13 | 2021: 28
Fields was in a tough spot when it became clear the Bears planned to draft Caleb Williams with the first overall pick. And when the fourth-year pro landed in Pittsburgh, it quickly became clear he'd need to fight for an opportunity to play. He got a bit of a break early on when Russell Wilson wasn't healthy enough to start the season, and Fields capitalized on the opportunity -- at least enough to keep him on NFL radars -- leading the Steelers to a 4-2 record by making plays in key spots. He was clearly the lesser passer of the Steelers' two QBs this year, but he demonstrated value, which is paramount as he enters free agency. I still believe Fields can be an adequate starter in this league somewhere, and I feel he proved that to a degree this past season. But fit is going to matter the most with how his future plays out.
2024 stats: 17 games | 62.5 pct | 3,541 pass yds | 6.3 ypa | 20 pass TD | 6 INT | 189 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 10 fumbles
It's impossible to evaluate Williams' rookie year without acknowledging he didn't land in an ideal situation. Among the many factors that worked against him in Year 1, Chicago's offensive line struggled to protect Williams early in the season, subjecting him to a significant amount of pressure and hits that may have broken a lesser prospect. In these moments, though, we saw glimpses of what makes Williams special. He's a magician when evading rushers and has an incredibly powerful arm that he often unleashed only after avoiding multiple defenders. He expended far too much energy attempting to stay upright, and by the time Chicago's protection improved, Williams had developed a fear of making a mistake, leading to him holding onto the ball too long. He needs to become more decisive in his second season, but hopefully the new Ben Johnson-led staff won't make the going so difficult for him in 2025. I have a feeling we've yet to see what Williams is truly capable of in the NFL, and I can't wait to see him start to deliver on his potential.
2024 stats: 9 games | 63.4 pct | 1,612 pass yds | 6.6 ypa | 8 pass TD | 4 INT | 30 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 2 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 27
By the end of the season, it was very clear O'Connell was the best quarterback on the Raiders' roster. Injuries -- and a preseason competition for the job that didn't produce noticeable separation, but led coach Antonio Pierce to choose Gardner Minshew II -- got in the way of O'Connell commanding the job, but by the time he'd officially taken over as QB1 late in the season, O'Connell was ready to seize the opportunity. He's not threatening most starters, but he's done enough to carve out what is likely to be a long run as a plus backup. He's already exceeded expectations despite the Raiders' fluid dysfunction over the last two years. Now with Las Vegas expected to find yet another replacement candidate for him, I expect him to find a new home before long.
2024 stats: 5 games | 58.1 pct | 775 pass yds | 7.4 ypa | 3 pass TD | 3 INT | 11 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 2 fumbles
Penix got the late-season promotion most believed wouldn't come for a year or two, and he proved the Falcons right in their decision, throwing for 737 yards and a 3-3 TD-to-INT ratio in three starts. He only won one of those games but went toe-to-toe with Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels in a wildly thrilling Sunday night showdown in Washington, announcing his presence to the football world with clutch throws. He has room to grow, but the tools that made him a first-round pick have carried over. Now, it's about building around him and moving together as a unified organization.
2024 stats: 7 games | 74.1 pct | 550 pass yds | 10.2 ypa | 3 pass TD | 0 INT | 138 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 0 fumbles
2023 final ranking: N/A | 2022: 55 | 2020-18: N/A
Willis is a perfect example of how a situation can determine the direction a quarterback's career can proceed. He was headed toward lost cause status in Tennessee in the preseason, and when the Titans shipped him off to Green Bay, nobody thought twice about the move. In the end, we all discovered it was precisely what Willis needed. Matt LaFleur did a masterful job of crafting the game plan around Willis when he was pressed into action, and the athletic Liberty product thrived, leading the Packers to two wins and showing off his natural talents along the way. It's refreshing to see a gifted player finally receive a chance to use those abilities and succeed. Green Bay has its backup to Love for a while, I think.
2024 stats: 12 games | 61.1 pct | 2,121 pass yds | 7.2 ypa | 13 pass TD | 12 INT | 83 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 5 fumbles
2023 final ranking: N/A | 2022: 26 | 2021: 21 | 2020: N/A | 2019: 22 | 2018: 20 | 2017: 17 | 2016: 15 | 2015: 20
Winston played up (and down) to his reputation almost too predictably in his first season with the Browns, replacing Deshaun Watson and enjoying the highs of a snow-covered win over the Steelers and an upset triumph over the Ravens, then falling to the lows of multiple turnover-laden outings in a handful of losses. Even in an incredible 497-yard, four-touchdown performance in Denver, Winston's penchant for giveaways proved to be his downfall. That is and has been the Winston experience: He'll sling the ball all over the yard and produce some thrilling moments, but it comes with the near guarantee he'll make some crushing mistakes. At this point, we know who he is, but that won't preclude him from finding employment somewhere in 2025. Just don't bank on it happening in Cleveland.
2024 stats: 12 games | 63.1 pct | 2,091 pass yds | 6.9 ypa | 13 pass TD | 12 INT | 183 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 10 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 33
This was the season when Levis was supposed to show the Titans he could be the guy. In the end, he showed them he could ... be the turnover guy. Levis self-sabotaged frequently enough to get benched in favor of Mason Rudolph and drive the Titans back into the quarterback market in 2025, and even after his encouraging mid-season stretch, I only see him returning to their lineup as a camp battle winner -- and even then, it feels like his days in Nashville are numbered.
2024 stats: 5 games | 64.7 pct | 829 pass yds | 6.2 ypa | 3 pass TD | 3 INT | 135 rush yds | 2 rush TD | 6 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 53 | 2022: 52 | 2021: 26 | 2020: N/A
In 2024, Huntley embodied the benefits of having multiple weeks to digest an offense before taking the field. He joined the Dolphins in a time of extreme need after Tua Tagovailoa suffered a concussion, and Huntley appeared to be swimming mentally. Yet, when Huntley returned to the field late in the season, he looked much more like the Huntley we saw earn a Pro Bowl nod while with the Ravens. He's a veteran backup who can be trusted if given time to acclimate. He carried the Dolphins to a late-season win over the Browns and should attract interest from teams seeking a veteran backup in 2025.
2024 stats: 11 games | 47.7 pct | 1,814 pass yds | 6.9 ypa | 8 pass TD | 12 INT | 499 rush yds | 6 rush TD | 9 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 18
Richardson's second season was supposed to be the one in which he got back on track and quickly took off toward the stratosphere in which his potential resides. It went much differently. Richardson displayed plenty of inconsistency as a passer, finishing with a completion percentage below 48 and throwing 12 interceptions. He was ineffective enough to get benched in favor of Joe Flacco. But Richardson was also still an effective runner and found moments of precision, especially in key moments (See: Indianapolis' comeback win over New England). Overall, Richardson isn't nearly consistent enough to make most believe he's the answer for the Colts -- yet. He's not at the stage most expected him to be at after two years, and Year 3 is going to be pivotal. But if he figures it out, watch out.
2024 stats: 10 games | 66.3 pct | 2,013 pass yds | 6.6 ypa | 9 pass TD | 10 INT | 58 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 6 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 24 | 2022: 41 | 2021: 37 | 2020: 34 | 2019: 25
The quarterback I lauded for keeping the Colts afloat in 2023 ran the Raiders' vessel aground in 2024. It wasn't with bad intention or without effort; Minshew just couldn't refrain from taking risks that ended up costing the Raiders. Antonio Pierce grew so frustrated with the veteran, he benched him on multiple occasions and likely would have again had a collarbone injury not ended Minshew's season. His Vegas stint will end up a negative mark on an odyssey of a football résumé, but I expect him to find an opportunity elsewhere as a backup in 2025.
2024 stats: 10 games | 63.3 pct | 2,070 pass yds | 6.1 ypa | 8 pass TD | 7 INT | 265 rush yds | 2 rush TD | 4 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 46 | 2022: 18 | 2021: 24 | 2020: 24 | 2019: 23
Jones ended the regular season on the Vikings' practice squad. I should leave it at that, considering we all know what happened to him by now, but I can't help myself: Jones was collateral damage in an effort by Giants leadership to save their jobs. He was their scapegoat, and when none of the rest of the Giants' quarterback options -- save for Drew Lock's one shining moment against the Colts -- fared any better, that much became clear. I'm hoping Jones lands in a situation that allows him to develop, because he deserves as much after what he endured in New York. Whether that's in Minnesota or elsewhere remains to be seen.
2024 stats: 12 games | 60.7 pct | 1,844 pass yds | 6.0 ypa | 12 pass TD | 5 INT | 18 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 9 fumbles
2023 final ranking: N/A | 2022: 43 | 2021: 44 | 2020-17: N/A
Depending on the week, our impressions of Rush varied widely. In some outings, he was surprisingly productive. In others, he was dreadful. Ultimately, Rush proved why he had maintained his hold on the Cowboys' No. 2 job behind Dak Prescott, posting a 4-4 record as a starter while confirming his standing as nothing more than a backup. He was certainly more reliable than Dallas' alternative, Trey Lance.
2024 stats: 7 games | 57.0 pct | 1,317 pass yds | 5.8 ypa | 4 pass TD | 5 INT | 146 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 5 fumbles
The former four-star high school recruit saw his first NFL action in place of an injured Derek Carr in Week 6, making the start and beginning the game with a surprising amount of poise. That fell apart by the end thanks to two interceptions, but it intrigued the Saints enough to turn back to him later in the season once Carr was again forced out of action. Rattler brings a mobile element to the Saints offense, was the best remaining option late in the season and offers enough upside to validate keeping him as a long-term prospect. He just needs to be more consistent in order to capitalize on whatever opportunity awaits him. He's definitely one of the more interesting young backups out there right now.
2024 stats: 8 games | 65.3 pct | 1,761 pass yds | 7.1 ypa | 12 pass TD | 7 INT | 26 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 4 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 13 | 2022: 51 | 2021: 51 | 2020: 46 | 2019: 33 | 2018: 26 | 2017: 25 | 2016: 21 | 2015: 18 | 2014: 11 | 2013: 16
Flacco's magic from the 2023 season did not carry over. He found a bit of the pixie dust when he was called into action when Anthony Richardson suffered a hip injury and did enough to convince Shane Steichen to give him another shot at starting once Richardson underwhelmed later in the year. But Richardson eventually regained the job because Flacco proved he couldn't handle it. At this stage, the 40-year-old is showing his age in his lack of mobility. His arm is still live, but he needs to work behind an elite offensive line to truly lead a team to victory. If he wants it, he'll likely get another backup job in 2025, though.
2023 stats: 4 games | 68.1 pct | 948 pass yds | 8.4 ypa | 5 pass TD | 1 INT | 24 rush yds | 50 rush TD | 3 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 28 | 2022: N/A | 2021: 53 | 2020: 44 | 2019: T-48 | 2018: N/A
There isn't much to write about Rudolph that isn't already known. He's a low-ceiling, high-floor backup who will keep an offense level without threatening to take the top off most defenses. He's a calming influence on a chaotic operation, which will get him looks for backup jobs. That's what happened when he replaced Will Levis in 2024. That's about it.
2024 stats: 10 games | 65.3 pct | 1,672 pass yds | 6.4 ypa | 8 pass TD | 8 INT | 92 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 2 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 50 | 2022: 29 | 2021: 16
In some weeks, Jones played surprisingly well. In others -- and often, in the same games -- Jones reminded us of who he is. Most of the time, Jones did little to nothing to propel the Jaguars forward offensively, but he'd occasionally find himself in back-and-forth affairs in which he'd keep Jacksonville competitive. He's a firm backup at this stage in his career and was in the right situation in 2024. We'll see if he returns there or finds a backup job elsewhere in 2025.
2024 stats: 6 games | 66.3 pct | 989 pass yds | 6.2 ypa | 7 pass TD | 6 INT | 34 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 2 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 29 | 2022: 24 | 2021: 33 | 2020: 25 | 2019: T-30 | 2018: 17 | 2017: 26 | 2016: 17 | 2015: 6 | 2014: 18 | 2013: 20
When Dalton replaced Bryce Young after Week 2, it appeared to signal the end of the Young era in Carolina. Dalton was clearly the better option at the time and helped the Panthers at least compete, but he wasn't able to maintain the same level of production in ensuing weeks, casting doubt on the Panthers' situation under center. Strangely enough, a car accident forced Dalton out of action and gave Young a second chance, which he seized. At the same time, Dalton's struggles made me wonder whether he's now in the twilight of his career as a backup. There are worse situations elsewhere that could use his help, but at 37 years old, I wouldn't be surprised if we don't see much more of him before he retires.
2024 stats: 8 games | 59.0 pct | 826 pass yds | 5.1 ypa | 2 pass TD | 1 INT | 62 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 4 fumbles
2023 final ranking: N/A | 2022: 21 | 2021: 34 | 2020: N/A | 2019: 27 | 2018: N/A | 2017: 28 | 2016: N/A
Brissett is a beloved teammate who has proven in the past he can handle the duties of a veteran starter without crashing the car. He's also an experienced passer who looked incredibly overwhelmed by most defenses when playing behind New England's leaky offensive line, and his performance aged poorly after rookie Drake Maye replaced him and played far better. Brissett should continue to attract interest from teams seeking veteran backups, but I can feel his ceiling slowly lowering. In hindsight, it's surprising it took the Patriots five weeks to bench him, even if it made sense as a protective measure for Maye.
2024 stats: 8 games | 59.1 pct | 1,071 pass yds | 5.9 ypa | 6 pass TD | 5 INT | 133 rush yds | 2 rush TD | 5 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 41 | 2022: N/A | 2021: 47 | 2020: 33 | 2019: 29
Lock wasn't great in most of his starts in 2024. He was essentially guaranteed to throw an interception per outing, and while he might pile up a respectable amount of passing yards, he likely wouldn't propel the Giants to victory. That one late-December explosion -- 17-for-23, 309 yards, four touchdowns in a win over the Colts -- however, will leave many wondering what could be with Lock under center. I'm here to tell you that was a blissful anomaly that won't be replicated in a month-long sample, let alone a full season. It was nice, though, and might buy Lock enough juice for another shot elsewhere in 2025, much like his heroic 2023 outing in Seattle earned him a job with the Giants.
2024 stats: 1 game | 65.9 pct | 334 pass yds | 8.1 ypa | 2 pass TD | 1 INT | 5 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 0 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 49 | 2022: 20 | 2021: 20 | 2020: T-30 | 2019: 15 | 2018: N/A | 2017: 12 | 2016-14: N/A
Those who forgot about Garoppolo were pleasantly surprised to see him take the field for the Rams in Week 18 and nearly lead them to a win in a game they effectively conceded in favor of rest. Garoppolo was rather sharp in the game, completing 27 of 41 passes for 334 yards while playing with a collection of backups. If anything, he provided a showing similar to that of Sam Darnold in San Francisco a year earlier, which might make some wonder if Garoppolo still has value left in him beyond the role of an experienced backup. Just don't expect Garoppolo to get the same opportunity -- or enjoy the same success -- that Darnold did in Minnesota in 2024.
2024 stats: 5 games | 59.5 pct | 291 pass yds | 6.9 ypa | 2 pass TD | 1 INT | 15 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 1 fumble
2023 final ranking: 35 | 2022: 25
Frankly, Pickett played better than I thought he would when he was called into action in a late-season game at Washington. Other than an early interception, he was surprisingly accurate on a day in which his teammates repeatedly failed him by dropping passes in crucial moments. Sure, he had some weird moments, like when he threw a fumble early in the Eagles' runaway win over Dallas, but he played decent ball when Philadelphia needed him.
2024 stats: 2 games | 66.7 pct | 323 pass yds | 7.4 ypa | 4 pass TD | 0 INT | -1 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 0 fumbles
2023 final ranking: N/A
I like McKee's long-term trajectory as a backup in this league. At 6-foot-6, he's obviously built for it physically, and I personally believed he had done enough to earn the backup gig behind Jalen Hurts entering 2024. He did a solid job in his lone start, too, completing 65.9 percent of his passes for 269 yards and two touchdowns against the lowly Giants before returning to the shadows of the bench. It was a nice little showing for a passer most didn't expect to see at all this season.
2024 stats: 2 games | 68.1 pct | 361 pass yds | 7.7 ypa | 2 pass TD | 2 INT | 24 rush yds | 2 rush TD | 2 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 31 | 2022: 45 | 2021-17: N/A
After a whirlwind 2023 season, Dobbs' 2024 campaign was much quieter. He made just one start and largely matched the previous season's production within a one-game sample, tossing two touchdowns and two interceptions in a loss to Arizona. San Francisco is a stable place for a player like Dobbs, but I think he could provide more to a team in need of a backup. I also was left wondering why San Francisco had selected Brandon Allen over Dobbs as QB2 earlier in the season, even when it was moot by the time he took the field.
2024 stats: 3 games | 56.7 pct | 199 pass yds | 7.3 ypa | 1 pass TD | 2 INT | -1 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 2 fumbles
2023 final ranking: N/A | 2022: N/A| 2021: 58 | 2020: 47 | 2019: T-48 | 2018-16: N/A
In his one start, Allen handled the job like a veteran who wasn't interested in putting his team at risk. He was happy to take the short, immediate throws but also threw a bullet to George Kittle for a score. Otherwise, it was a forgettable outing that saw Allen turn it over twice and fail to keep the 49ers in striking distance of the red-hot Packers, which effectively explains most of Allen's career as a spot starter.
2024 stats: 1 game | 51.6 pct | 179 pass yds | 5.5 ypa | 1 pass TD | 2 INT | 2 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 0 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 42 | 2022: 47
Zappe ended up looking like the second-best quarterback on the Browns' roster in 2024, which isn't much of a compliment given the state of the position in Cleveland. He made one start in Week 18 and did enough to keep the Browns competitive against an on-fire Ravens squad until the Browns fell apart in the fourth quarter, a meltdown capped by an ugly (and hilarious) interception thrown to defensive tackle Michael Pierce. Zappe was a mid-season mercenary who could hang around because of the Browns' lack of options under center, but isn't much more than that.
2024 stats: 4 games | 61.0 pct | 266 pass yds | 6.5 ypa | 0 pass TD | 1 INT | 41 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 0 fumbles
2023 final ranking: N/A | 2022: 31 | 2021: 36
It's telling that Lance only saw action in an otherwise lost season in the final week of the campaign. To his credit, Lance did well enough to lead the Cowboys into field-goal range on a number of possessions in their eventual close loss to the Cardiac Commanders, but a season-finale spot start is an incredibly far cry from where the former first-round pick was expected to reside when San Francisco traded up to select him in the 2021 draft. I'm not sure this reality is going to change anytime soon, either, but maybe we'll see some changes under new coach Brian Schottenheimer.
2024 stats: 6 games | 61.2 pct | 458 pass yds | 5.4 ypa | 2 pass TD | 2 INT | 36 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 3 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 36 | 2022: 34
Frankly, there isn't much to write about Ridder. He looked a lot like he did in Atlanta, a team that happily shipped him off to the desert in the offseason, and lost a training camp competition to Clayton Tune for the backup job. Ridder's 2024 can be captured in one outing: a 23-for-39, 208-yard, one-touchdown, two-interception showing in a 15-9 loss to the Falcons that most competent quarterbacks likely would have found a way to win. He's hovering around camp arm status at this point.
2024 stats: 8 games | 46.2 pct | 226 pass yds | 5.8 ypa | 1 pass TD | 1 INT | 22 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 0 fumbles
2023 final ranking: N/A
Familiarity helped the second-year pro earn the backup job out of camp, but when he was thrown into the fire following an early-season injury to Derek Carr, Haener failed to impress enough to keep his hold on the backup job, opening the door for Rattler. Haener made one start over eight appearances, finished with one touchdown and one interception, and should be expected to fill the third-string spot on New Orleans' depth chart at best in 2025.
2024 stats: 3 games | 63.6 pct | 187 pass yds | 5.7 ypa | 0 pass TD | 0 INT | 4 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 2 fumbles
2023 final ranking: N/A | 2022: 49
I'm curious if we'll see Thompson take the field for the Dolphins again anytime soon, if at all. He's been their pet project for the last few seasons but didn't show any signs of progress in his start against Seattle, completing 13 of 19 passes and struggling so significantly, Miami eventually replaced him with Tim Boyle before signing Huntley. Thompson has intrigued this club enough for it to keep him as Tagovailoa's backup, but Huntley also taught Miami there are better backup options out there. That could spell the end for Thompson, who looked unequipped to handle the job in his lone start.
2024 stats: 7 games | 51.7 pct | 440 pass yds | 3.7 ypa | 0 pass TD | 6 INT | 122 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 3 fumbles
2023 final rankings: 59
Cleveland's strange fascination with Thompson-Robinson likely reached its end in 2024. The UCLA product looked entirely overwhelmed by the speed of the game and failed to push the Browns offense forward at all as they trudged toward the merciful end of a miserable season. If anything, he regressed from 2023 to 2024 and if he does stick around, it's only because he's under a rookie contract.
2024 stats: 3 games | 63.2 pct | 118 pass yds | 6.2 ypa | 0 pass TD | 0 INT | 0 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 0 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 52 | 2022: 36 | 2021: 19 | 2020: 35 | 2019: 10 | 2018: 14 | 2017: 3 | 2016: 25
It's difficult to judge Wentz in one game played with an assortment of backups against a rival desperate for a win, but we can all agree he certainly didn't inspire much confidence. He completed 10 of 17 passes in a contest the Chiefs lost the time of possession battle by more than 20 minutes. He never looked comfortable or confident, reminding many of his final days in previous stops. The stakes and expectations are low for him now, so don't be surprised to see him continue to hang around on one-year deals.
2024 stats: 3 games | 70.5 pct | 257 pass yds | 5.8 ypa | 0 pass TD | 0 INT | 32 rush yds | 0 rush TD | 0 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 37
Tommy Cutlets' second episode in New York was not nearly as thrilling as his first. He made two starts, didn't throw a touchdown or an interception, and exited both games due to injury. Because Jones was already released and Lock is headed to free agency, DeVito will be the only quarterback to return to the Giants in 2025, and perhaps he'll fare better when healthy.
2024 stats: 7 games | 63.4 pct | 1,148 pass yds | 5.3 ypa | 5 pass TD | 3 INT | 148 rush yds | 1 rush TD | 5 fumbles
2023 final ranking: 26 | 2022: 28 | 2021: N/A | 2020: 4 | 2019: 5 | 2018: 11 | 2017: 13
Watson proved in 2024 he's not fit to play quarterback in the NFL anymore. He quickly lost his trust in his offensive line, rarely gave plays time to develop before pulling his eyes down in anticipation of the rush, lacked arm strength, wasn't mobile enough to elude defenders and flat-out failed to help his offense in any situation. With Watson at quarterback, the Browns owned what was indisputably the worst offense in the NFL. They were significantly better with Winston at quarterback, which is damning for Watson's case to remain in the NFL. He'd be long gone from Cleveland if not for his albatross of a contract, and I'd be surprised if Watson, who has ruptured his Achilles twice in the last four months, ever played another down for the Browns.
