NFL: 5 non-rookie QBs with most to prove in 2021
Entering the 2021 NFL regular season, these five veteran quarterbacks have the most to prove on the field.
5. Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins
Only in his second year, but Tagovailoa desperately needs to make something good happen in Miami. After the Dolphins went 10-6 and missed the playoffs in 2020, there’s pressure on Tagovailoa to get the talented squad into the postseason. Last year, Tagovailoa was benched twice in starts for veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick, but the latter man is gone. The former No. 5 overall pick needs to step up with receivers Will Fuller and Jaylen Waddle added to the mix.
Want $250 to bet on NFL futures?
4. Baker Mayfield, Cleveland Browns
After helping the Browns to the Divisional round in 2020, Mayfield is now playing for a massive extension. Another quality season for player and team could make the former No. 1 overall pick an extremely rich man in the upcoming offseason, but a bad year and suddenly questions will arise. Mayfield has one of the most talented teams in football surrounding him, led by receivers Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry, and running backs Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt. He must take advantage.
3. Carson Wentz, Indianapolis Colts
Wentz comes over from the Philadelphia Eagles, are are taking $34 million cap charge to watch him play in the midwest. With expectations being an AFC South title, Wentz needs to play up to standard or face the possibility of being on a third team in as many years come 2022. Indianapolis will be a run-first team that can play top-10 defense, but Wentz still needs to make something happen and reestablish his value as a quality quarterback.
Read: Bruce Arians Banning Players From Socialising, Doesn’t ‘Give A Crap’
2. Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams
The Rams are banking on Stafford being the missing piece to a championship. However, while the 32-year-old is talented, he never won a single division or playoff game with the Detroit Lions. Now, he’s flanked by head coach Sean McVay and receivers Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp. If Los Angeles makes a deep postseason run, the move for Stafford will be lauded as brilliant. If not, Stafford will have a reputation as a great NFL talent with a poor resumé.
1. Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals
Entering his third year, Murray is clearly talented in both arm and legs. The question is whether he’s simply a good player or an ascending youngster with greatness ahead. The Cardinals have excellent weapons led by receivers DeAndre Hopkins and A.J. Green, and a veteran center in Rodney Hudson. Arizona isn’t a title contender, but the team is good enough for Murray to showcase his immense potential.
