As anticipation grows around NFL prospects like quarterbacks Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Bo Mix, Drake Maye, J.J. McCarthy, and Michael Penix, Jr., it’s worth tempering expectations regarding the touted depth of talent in the 2024 draft.
Looking back at the 2021 draft, where five quarterbacks were selected within the top 15 picks, the outcomes have been largely underwhelming.
For instance, Trey Lance, chosen third overall by the 49ers, was recently traded to the Cowboys for a mere fourth-round pick. Mac Jones, the fifteenth pick, found himself dealt to the Jaguars for just a sixth-round pick. Similarly, Justin Fields, selected eleventh overall, was traded to the Steelers for a sixth-round pick in 2025.
Surprisingly, three of these quarterbacks were picked ahead of Micah Parsons, who has emerged as a standout player.
Meanwhile, the Jets are struggling to find a taker for Zach Wilson’s hefty contract, indicating a disappointing return on the consensus second-overall pick.
The overall performance of the 2021 quarterback class has been lackluster. Other quarterbacks drafted that year, including Kyle Trask, Kellen Mond, Davis Mills, Ian Book, and Sam Ehlinger, have not made significant impacts either.
With teams once again eyeing rookie quarterbacks in the upcoming draft, it’s essential to remember the uncertainty inherent in such selections. While this year’s class holds promise, the 2021 draft serves as a reminder that success is far from guaranteed when it comes to drafting quarterbacks.
