NFL draft: Ranking all 24 quarterback classes since 2000

The 2024 NFL Draft offers yet another pool of potential franchise quarterbacks. Before we welcome those prospects into the club, let’s take stock of where we stand today. Marc Sessler has once again updated his rankings of each QB draft class that has entered the NFL since the turn of the millennium. Last offseason’s rankings have been altered to reflect a scenery-shifting 2023 campaign.

NOTE: Pro Bowlers are denoted by an asterisk (*).

24) 2007

Round 1: JaMarcus Russell (No. 1 overall), Brady Quinn (No. 22)
Round 2: Kevin Kolb (No. 36), John Beck (No. 40), Drew Stanton (No. 43)
Round 3: Trent Edwards (No. 92)
Round 4: Isaiah Stanback (No. 103)
Round 5: Jeff Rowe (No. 151), Troy Smith (No. 174)
Round 6: Jordan Palmer (No. 205)
Round 7: Tyler Thigpen (No. 2017)
Notable undrafted: Matt Moore

We begin our journey in grim territory. The 2007 NFL Draft was “headlined” by JaMarcus Russell, arguably the most severe quarterback bust of all time and a first-overall whiff who set the Raiders back years. The 6-foot-6, 265-pound LSU star produced a grotesque 7-18 mark as a starter and finished 2009 — his final year in the league — as the worst passer in football. Russell netted $39.4 million, while the Raiders, in return, were handed a raging headache. Ugly vibes for the Browns, too, who reached for Brady Quinn at No. 22, only to turn around three years later and trade him to the Broncos for fullback Peyton Hillis — who at least managed to sneak onto the cover of Madden. Career backup Drew Stanton is one of the few to earn points inside a flatlining class that handed us John Beck, Trent Edwards and the overhyped Kevin Kolb. High-level busts and zero reliable starters make this the worst crop of them all.

23) 2002

Round 1: David Carr (No. 1), Joey Harrington (No. 3), Patrick Ramsey (No. 32)
Round 3: Josh McCown (No. 81)
Round 4: David Garrard* (No. 108), Rohan Davey (No. 117)
Round 5: Randy Fasani (No. 137), Kurt Kittner (No. 158), Brandon Doman (No. 163), Craig Nall (No. 164)
Round 6: J.T. O’Sullivan (No. 186), Steve Bellisari (No. 205)
Round 7: Seth Burford (No. 216), Jeff Kelly (No. 232), Ronald Curry (No. 235), Wes Pate (No. 236)
Notable undrafted: Shaun Hill, Chad Hutchinson

The best of the lot? My vote goes to Josh McCown, the persistent and exciting occasional starter who could possibly become a head coach one day. Although David Carr didn’t fulfill the expectations of a No. 1 overall pick, his situation brings to mind Tim Couch’s experience in Cleveland: a young quarterback thrust into a challenging situation with a struggling expansion team. David Garrard had many standout moments with the Jaguars, while Shaun Hill, who went undrafted, lasted 15 years in the league. This group was also tarnished by two first-round disappointments, Joey Harrington of Detroit and Patrick Ramsey of Washington, who together had a 28-51 record with the teams that inaccurately picked them. For the hardcore fans, this group also presented us with the undrafted enigma that is Chad Hutchinson.

22) 2013

Round 1: EJ Manuel (No. 16)
Round 2: Geno Smith* (No. 39)
Round 3: Mike Glennon (No. 73)
Round 4: Matt Barkley (No. 98), Ryan Nassib (No. 110), Tyler Wilson (No. 112), Landry Jones (No. 115)
Round 7: Brad Sorensen (No. 221), Zac Dysert (No. 234), B.J. Daniels (No. 237), Sean Renfree (No. 249)
Notable undrafted: Matt McGloin

Teams were surprised when the Bills reached for EJ Manuel with the 16th overall selection. Seen by most as a project with potential, the Florida State product was a turnover-prone flop in Buffalo — a player Doug Marrone replaced with Kyle Orton before Rex Ryan signed Tyrod Taylor, to avoid leaning on Manuel.

No first-round love poems here, but second-rounder Geno Smith is one of football’s better tales. Tabbed as a post-Russell Wilson patch in Seattle, the ex-washout went on to earn Comeback Player of the Year honors (and his first career Pro Bowl nod) in 2022, then made the Pro Bowl again in 2023. That alone can’t rocket this class up the list, but Geno stands out from an otherwise putrid crop.

21) 2010

Round 1: Sam Bradford (No. 1), Tim Tebow (No. 25)
Round 2: Jimmy Clausen (No. 48)
Round 3: Colt McCoy (No. 85)
Round 4: Mike Kafka (No. 122)
Round 5: John Skelton (No. 155), Jonathan Crompton (No. 168)
Round 6: Rusty Smith (No. 176), Dan LeFevour (No. 181), Joe Webb (No. 199), Tony Pike (No. 204)
Round 7: Levi Brown (No. 209), Sean Canfield (No. 239), Zac Robinson (No. 250)

One could make the case that Sam Bradford significantly influenced the establishment of a necessary rookie pay scale in 2011. Bradford’s rookie contract, a six-year deal worth $78 million with an astonishing $50 million guaranteed, was a key example. Despite winning the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, Bradford’s performance was not entirely convincing. His final two seasons with St. Louis were marred by a series of devastating injuries, causing him to miss 25 games and earning him the label of an ill-fated quarterback.

Bradford’s career was derailed due to persistent knee problems, but he still stands out in a group that includes career backups like the diligent Colt McCoy and the unexciting Jimmy Clausen. Additionally, this group includes a notable first-round gamble, Tim Tebow, who became a global sensation during his exceptional performance with the Broncos in 2011, before his career abruptly ended. Later, he played in the minor leagues for the Mets.

20) 2006

Round 1: Vince Young* (No. 3), Matt Leinart (No. 10), Jay Cutler* (No. 11)
Round 2: Kellen Clemens (No. 49), Tarvaris Jackson (No. 64)
Round 3: Charlie Whitehurst (No. 81), Brodie Croyle (No. 85)
Round 4: Brad Smith (No. 103)
Round 5: Ingle Martin (No. 148), Omar Jacobs (No. 164)
Round 6: Reggie McNeal (No. 193), Bruce Gradkowski (No. 194)
Round 7: D.J. Shockley (No. 223)

This course fundamentally hinges on your opinion of Jay Cutler. Despite the powerful thrower’s tally of 153 total starts, his balanced 51-51 record during regular-season games with the Bears is fitting. He certainly executed a fair share of impressive plays – some of his passes were simply exquisite – but it would be challenging to compile a top-five list of Cutler’s most inspiring comeback victories. He never quite evolved into an outstanding player in his role, but he persevered long after his fellow first-round peers, Vince Young and Matt Leinart, faded out. Although Charlie Whitehurst was not particularly remarkable, he earns merit in this context for his flowing hair and for dating singer Jewel in the mid-2010s.

19) 2015

Round 1: Jameis Winston* (No. 1), Marcus Mariota (No. 2)
Round 3: Garrett Grayson (No. 75), Sean Mannion (No. 89)
Round 4: Bryce Petty (No. 103)
Round 5: Brett Hundley (No. 147)
Round 7: Trevor Siemian (No. 250)

After melting away in Tampa and toiling away in NOLA, Jameis Winston is now set to back up Deshaun Watson in Cleveland.

Marcus Mariota has always fallen short of expectations. Now moving onto his fifth team, he’ll be partnering with any new recruit the Commanders get in the draft. The remaining team is a dull and confusing mix.

18) 2022

Round 1: Kenny Pickett (No. 20)
Round 3: Desmond Ridder (No. 74), Malik Willis (No. 86), Matt Corral (No. 94)
Round 4: Bailey Zappe (No. 137)
Round 5: Sam Howell (No. 144)
Round 7: Chris Oladokun (No. 241), Skylar Thompson (No. 247), Brock Purdy* (No. 262)
Notable undrafted: Anthony Brown

This gaggle of arms doubles as a reminder of how quickly it all moves: Kenny Pickett’s stint as King of the Steelers was over by lunchtime. Same goes for Desmond Ridder in Atlanta. Malik Willis looms as an afterthought. Bailey Zappe, too. I like Sam Howell more than anyone above, but the Commanders shipped him to Seattle in March without hesitation. Not all is lost, though, with Brock Purdy stringing together two magical campaigns and falling a whisker short of lifting the Lombardi as San Francisco’s storybook hero.

17) 2021

Round 1: Trevor Lawrence* (No. 1), Zach Wilson (No. 2), Trey Lance (No. 3), Justin Fields (No. 11), Mac Jones* (No. 15)
Round 2: Kyle Trask (No. 64)
Round 3: Kellen Mond (No. 66), Davis Mills (No. 67)
Round 4: Ian Book (No. 133)
Round 6: Sam Ehlinger (No. 218)

The Class of 2021 sits in flux.

Liberated from the oppressive regime of Urban Meyer, Trevor Lawrence blossomed under the guidance of Doug Pederson in 2022. His erratic play was substituted with consistent, powerful throws, improved decision-making, and a talent for overpowering opponents with his towering 6-foot-6 stature. Although his performance in 2023 was not as flashy, with careful observation, one could discern the potential of a top-10 quarterback.

A year ago, I wrote that Justin Fields was “the most exciting prospect Chicago’s possessed in eons.” Now he’s in Pittsburgh.

After a star-crossed start in Foxborough, Mac Jones was dealt to Jacksonville to back up our friend above, Mr. Lawrence.

Trey Lance was traded from San Francisco to Dallas, Zach Wilson appears to be one of the bigger quarterback busts of the century and Davis Mills fades into the woodwork in Houston. Rough-and-tumble territory.

16) 2014

Round 1: Blake Bortles (No. 3), Johnny Manziel (No. 22), Teddy Bridgewater* (No. 32)
Round 2: Derek Carr* (No. 36), Jimmy Garoppolo (No. 62)
Round 4: Logan Thomas (No. 120), Tom Savage (No. 135)
Round 5: Aaron Murray (No. 163), AJ McCarron (No. 164)
Round 6: Zach Mettenberger (No. 178), David Fales (No. 183), Keith Wenning (No. 194), Tajh Boyd (No. 213), Garrett Gilbert (No. 214)

This class spans the spectrum, with a blend of prominent beginners and regrettable draft errors stirred into a tumultuous mix.

Derek Carr has joined the Saints after being disregarded by the Raiders organization. While he deserved better, Carr is still a mid-level player who is likely to disappoint as much as he impresses. Meanwhile, Jimmy Garoppolo, despite being on his fourth team and his career seeming to decline, remains a desirable player.

Blake Bortles fizzled out in Jacksonville, while Johnny Manziel remains a haunting quarterback selection by the Browns. Taken 10 picks later, Teddy Bridgewater had his career sideswiped by a devastating knee injury before emerging as a journeyman with upside. Now he’s a high school coach.

15) 2009

Round 1: Matthew Stafford* (No. 1), Mark Sanchez (No. 5), Josh Freeman (No. 17)
Round 2: Pat White (No. 44)
Round 4: Stephen McGee (No. 101)
Round 5: Rhett Bomar (No. 151), Nate Davis (No. 171)
Round 6: Tom Brandstater (No. 174), Mike Teel (No. 178), Keith Null (No. 196), Curtis Painter (No. 201)
Notable undrafted: Chase Daniel, Brian Hoyer

Aside from Matthew Stafford, who has a Super Bowl victory under his belt, there’s little else of note here except for the early career highlights of Mark Sanchez. Sanchez had a few standout moments in consecutive trips to the AFC championship game with the Jets, but his shortcomings as a starter were laid bare by 2011. Josh Freeman turned out to be a misguided first-round pick, and the Dolphins erred in using the 44th pick on Pat White, who never started a game as a quarterback for Miami or for any other team. Chase Daniel deserves recognition for remaining in the game until the 2022 season, and Brian Hoyer is always only a phone call away.

14) 2019

Round 1: Kyler Murray* (No. 1), Daniel Jones (No. 6), Dwayne Haskins (No. 15)
Round 2: Drew Lock (No. 42)
Round 3: Will Grier (No. 100)
Round 4: Ryan Finley (No. 104), Jarrett Stidham (No. 133)
Round 5: Easton Stick (No. 166), Clayton Thorson (No. 167)
Round 6: Gardner Minshew* (No. 178), Trace McSorley (No. 197)
Notable undrafted: David Blough, Devlin Hodges

Kyler Murray brought good vibes to Arizona as a rookie, flashing his powerful arm and jitterbug mobility. His late-season swoon in 2021 — capped by a hideous playoff performance and public demands for a new deal — left Cardinals faithful piqued. A torn ACL late in the 2022 campaign didn’t help, but Kyler looked the part down the stretch last season. He’ll run the show again for a rebuilding Cardinals roster.

Daniel Jones notched a career year in 2022 — earning a king’s ransom — but tumbled back to Earth in 2023. He rests on the hot seat in New York.

Drew Lock serves as a backup, as does Jarrett Stidham. Gardner Minshew, though also a fringe starter, is a bit more exciting with his 59:24 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Unfortunately, we lost Dwayne Haskins all too soon.

13) 2023

Round 1: Bryce Young (No. 1), C.J. Stroud* (No. 2), Anthony Richardson (No. 4)
Round 2: Will Levis (No. 33)
Round 3: Hendon Hooker (No. 68)
Round 4: Jake Haener (No. 127), Stetson Bennett (No. 128), Aidan O’Connell (No. 135)
Round 5: Clayton Tune (No. 139), Dorian Thompson-Robinson (No. 140), Sean Clifford (No. 149), Jaren Hall (No. 164)
Round 6: Tanner McKee (No. 188)
Round 7: Max Duggan (No. 239)
Notable undrafted: Tyson Bagent, Tommy DeVito

Massive TBDs.

Bryce Young endured a challenging debut season with a struggling Panthers team. While I’m inclined to erase this entire unpleasant experience, there is a lot of less-than-impressive footage out there. Here’s hoping that the new Carolina leader, Dave Canales, can assist Young in rapid development.

Anthony Richardson displayed remarkable skill on the field for the Colts, but his season was cut short due to a concussion and an AC sprain. As we approach the new season, he emerges as one of the AFC’s most intriguing “what if” players.

Both Carolina and the Colts likely turned green watching C.J. Stroud transform into a legitimate MVP candidate months into his NFL career. Attached to the white-hot Texans, Stroud can do it all, whipping 23 touchdowns to just five picks as a newbie. With Stefon Diggs and Joe Mixon added to Houston’s laundry list of weapons, Stroud finds himself in prime position to push this organization to the brink.

Aidan O’Connell and Dorian Thompson-Robinson went to battle in the regular season. Clayton Tune, too. Hendon Hooker’s on hold as long as Jared Goff runs the show in Detroit. This class, though, houses genuine promise — and evidence that its lead horse might be a centerpiece for years to come.

12) 2000

Round 1: Chad Pennington (No. 18)
Round 3: Giovanni Carmazzi (No. 65), Chris Redman (No. 75)
Round 5: Tee Martin (No. 163)
Round 6: Marc Bulger* (No. 168), Spergon Wynn (No. 183), Tom Brady* (No. 199), Todd Husak (No. 202), Ja’Juan Seider (No. 205)
Round 7: Tim Rattay (No. 212), Jarious Jackson (No. 214), Joe Hamilton (No. 234)
Notable undrafted: Doug Johnson, Billy Volek

One could make a case that this group should be placed higher… or perhaps significantly lower. Despite being filled with names that barely left a mark, the 2000 class also proudly showcases the finest quarterback of the 21st century, if not of all time in my opinion, in the form of seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady. It’s almost unreal to comprehend that he moved to Tampa at the age of 43 to secure the ultimate victory. The next assignment: Generating excitement for Sunday’s FOX-based games from the commentator’s booth.

Chad Pennington is lost in Tommy’s shadow, but the group’s only first-rounder was a rare find for the Jets and produced nicely for most of his 11-year career. An anonymous sixth-rounder, Marc Bulger went on to start 95 games for the post-Kurt Warner Rams over eight seasons. It’s incredible the 49ers made Giovanni Carmazzi the second quarterback off the board with Brady — a Bay Area resident — still available, but the blame falls on every single team in the NFL who failed to recognize what the future Patriots star would become. Pennington, Carmazzi, Chris Redman, Tee Martin, Bulger and Spergon Wynn all found homes before fate intervened to pair TB12 with Bill Belichick.

11) 2016

Round 1: Jared Goff* (No. 1), Carson Wentz* (No. 2), Paxton Lynch (No. 26)
Round 2: Christian Hackenberg (No. 51)
Round 3: Jacoby Brissett (No. 91), Cody Kessler (No. 93)
Round 4: Connor Cook (No. 100), Dak Prescott* (No. 135), Cardale Jones (No. 139)
Round 5: Kevin Hogan (No. 162)
Round 6: Nate Sudfeld (No. 187), Jake Rudock (No. 191), Brandon Allen (No. 201), Jeff Driskel (No. 207)
Round 7: Brandon Doughty (No. 223)

First overall pick Jared Goff authored a troubling, deer-in-headlights Super Bowl start and underwhelmed for a Rams team that shipped him off to Detroit. Instead of withering away, though, Goff has churned out his best tape yet for the Lions; in 2023, he helped lead them to the playoffs for the first time since 2016 and to the NFC title game for the first time since 1991.

Carson Wentz, the second overall pick, crumbled in Philadelphia before his performance dwindled in Indianapolis and Washington. His career took a downturn after a knee injury in 2017 ended his MVP-level season with the Eagles. Now no longer regarded as a starting quarterback, Wentz serves as a backup to Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City.

Dak Prescott has massively exceeded his fourth-round pedigree and deserved that big second contract from Dallas. He’s the best of the bunch with star-level traits — until January hits. Will he re-up with the ‘Boys again after this season or be wearing a different uniform in 2025?

Jacoby Brissett is an exceptional backup who has the ability to win games as a starting player. On the other hand, Paxton Lynch turned out to be a significant miss for Denver, and Cody Kessler never really developed.

10) 2011

Round 1: Cam Newton* (No. 1), Jake Locker (No. 8), Blaine Gabbert (No. 10), Christian Ponder (No. 12)
Round 2: Andy Dalton* (No. 35), Colin Kaepernick (No. 36)
Round 3: Ryan Mallett (No. 74)
Round 5: Ricky Stanzi (No. 135), T.J. Yates (No. 152), Nathan Enderle (No. 160)
Round 6: Tyrod Taylor* (No. 180)
Round 7: Greg McElroy (No. 208)
Supplemental draft: Terrelle Pryor (Round 3)

This class was marked by stellar starting talent and potential franchise-changing failures. In 2011, the Panthers smartly disregarded their choice of Jimmy Clausen from the previous year’s draft and committed fully to Cam Newton, selecting him as their No. 1 pick in the draft. Newton performed admirably, earning an MVP award and leading the team to a Super Bowl, thereby meeting expectations and positioning the Panthers as a notable franchise. However, this now seems like ancient history after Carolina let Newton go, leading him to spend 2020 in New England before making an unexpected return to a declining Panthers team in 2021.

Ace Boogie’s success is offset by a trio of first-round whiffs — Jake Locker, Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder — that would be enough to shuttle this class down the list if it weren’t for the supporting cast. Andy Dalton is no Joe Burrow, but he gave the Bengals nearly a decade’s worth of perfectly average performances. Tyrod Taylor offers starting experience, but a lack of durability has unspooled too many adventures. Colin Kaepernick’s career morphed into a radioactive talking point, but he brought the Niners within one completed pass of a Super Bowl title and was seen by many as the most exciting quarterback in football for a two-season stretch.

9) 2008

Round 1: Matt Ryan* (No. 3), Joe Flacco (No. 18)
Round 2: Brian Brohm (No. 56), Chad Henne (No. 57)
Round 3: Kevin O’Connell (No. 94)
Round 5: John David Booty (No. 137), Dennis Dixon (No. 156), Josh Johnson (No. 160), Erik Ainge (No. 162)
Round 6: Colt Brennan (No. 186), Andre’ Woodson (No. 198)
Round 7: Matt Flynn (No. 209), Alex Brink (No. 223)
Notable undrafted: Caleb Hanie

The 2008 group gave us one-time MVP Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco, who led the Ravens to a Super Bowl title after a month-plus of pristine postseason play. Ryan became an announcer, while Flacco returned to the field — in Cleveland of all places — to author one of the more unpredictable Comeback Player of the Year campaigns around. The names lack sizzle from there, with Chad Henne underwhelming as a starter and Brian Brohm serving as a second-round disappointment. Matt Flynn offered hopeful moments, but he failed to become a QB1.

8) 2003

Round 1: Carson Palmer* (No. 1), Byron Leftwich (No. 7), Kyle Boller (No. 19), Rex Grossman (No. 22)
Round 3: Dave Ragone (No. 88), Chris Simms (No. 97)
Round 4: Seneca Wallace (No. 110)
Round 5: Brian St. Pierre (No. 163)
Round 6: Drew Henson (No. 192), Brooks Bollinger (No. 200), Kliff Kingsbury (No. 201)
Round 7: Gibran Hamdan (No. 232), Ken Dorsey (No. 241)
Notable undrafted: Tony Romo*

The best passer in this class wasn’t even drafted. Tony Romo was brought to Dallas when former Cowboys assistant Sean Payton pitched him to Bill Parcells. The rest is history, with Romo taking the starting job from Drew Bledsoe in 2006 and never looking back. Heavily critiqued early in his career for the occasional high-profile gaffe, Romo ultimately retired as one of the NFL’s most reliable quarterbacks — and now he’s a Sunday fixture on CBS. No. 1 overall pick Carson Palmer proved to be well worth the selection, which was made by the Bengals, though some of the best work of his 14-year career came later on with Arizona. Byron Leftwich gave the Jaguars 44 up-and-down starts, while Kyle Boller and Rex Grossman were largely annoying. Still, Grossman is the only passer from this class to start on the game’s biggest stage, helping guide Chicago to Super Bowl XLI, where the Bears were steamrolled by Peyton Manning‘s Colts.

7) 2001

Round 1: Michael Vick* (No. 1)
Round 2: Drew Brees* (No. 32), Quincy Carter (No. 53), Marques Tuiasosopo (No. 59)
Round 4: Chris Weinke (No. 106), Sage Rosenfels (No. 109), Jesse Palmer (No. 125)
Round 5: Mike McMahon (No. 149), A.J. Feeley (No. 155)
Round 6: Josh Booty (No. 172), Josh Heupel (No. 177)

Both Mike Vick and Drew Brees revolutionized the expectations of their positions. Vick’s superior athleticism and unique rushing skills drew attention to the potential of running quarterbacks in the league. His career trajectory leaves many speculating what could have been, had his dog-fighting scandal and subsequent jail term not occurred, even though he did return to make another Pro Bowl with Philadelphia in 2010. On the other hand, Brees consistently demonstrated that a quarterback’s height isn’t necessarily a disadvantage. After joining the Saints in 2006, he excelled as an elite superstar, winning an unforgettable Super Bowl for New Orleans and making their offense a spectacle every fall. He’s a surefire Hall of Fame candidate and an iconic quarterback. Despite their success, the class had its shortcomings, with second-round picks Quincy Carter and Marques Tuiasosopo quickly falling out of favor. Chris Weinke’s 2-18 record as a starter didn’t help, while A.J. Feeley is merely remembered for his brief stint in Miami.

6) 2012

Round 1: Andrew Luck* (No. 1), Robert Griffin III* (No. 2), Ryan Tannehill* (No. 8), Brandon Weeden (No. 22)
Round 2: Brock Osweiler (No. 57)
Round 3: Russell Wilson* (No. 75), Nick Foles* (No. 88)
Round 4: Kirk Cousins* (No. 102)
Round 6: Ryan Lindley (No. 185)
Round 7: B.J. Coleman (No. 243), Chandler Harnish (No. 253)
Notable undrafted: Case Keenum

If things had gone as planned, this class might have been remembered as a match for the star-studded class of 2004 — possibly even 1983. Andrew Luck, a player of Hall of Fame caliber, won’t make it to Canton due to his shocking retirement in 2019. Robert Griffin III was a promising talent, the most thrilling quarterback in his rookie season, until a knee injury altered his career. In the same draft, Washington found RGIII’s replacement in Kirk Cousins, who unexpectedly became the hot commodity of the 2018 and again in 2024 free agency. In the third round, the Seahawks transformed their franchise by gambling on Russell Wilson. Despite criticism for his small size, Wilson secured a starting position in his first training camp and claimed the Lombardi trophy in his second year. His highly anticipated move to Denver was a disappointment as he seemed out of place in a Broncos uniform. Two years later, he moved to Pittsburgh. Add in Super Bowl LII hero Nick Foles and 2019 Comeback Player of the Year Ryan Tannehill, and this class appears extremely productive, despite the misfortunes of Griffin, the major flop that was Brandon Weeden, and the unimpressive Brock Osweiler.

5) 2005

Round 1: Alex Smith* (No. 1), Aaron Rodgers* (No. 24), Jason Campbell (No. 25)
Round 3: Charlie Frye (No. 67), Andrew Walter (No. 69), David Greene (No. 85)
Round 4: Kyle Orton (No. 106), Stefan LeFors (No. 121)
Round 5: Dan Orlovsky (No. 145), Adrian McPherson (No. 152)
Round 6: Derek Anderson* (No. 213)
Round 7: James Kilian (No. 229), Matt Cassel* (No. 230), Ryan Fitzpatrick (No. 250)

The first round gave us long-range starter Alex Smith and four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers, one of football’s brightest stars. We’re all aware of Rodgers’ frustration as he watched 21 teams (including the Vikings and Cowboys who both had two picks in the top 23) overlook him before the Packers recruited him for a team that already had Brett Favre as quarterback. The opportunity to observe and learn benefited Rodgers, who later won a Super Bowl and is now a shoo-in for the Hall of Fame. With hindsight, Rodgers should have been picked before Smith — and everyone else in the 2005 draft — but Smith does deserve credit for his 99-67-1 record as quarterback.

This class provided an uncommonly long duration of active players beyond the major two. Ryan Fitzpatrick was a true joy to watch, teaming up with Matt Cassel to become two of the most effective seventh-rounders in history. Derek Anderson and the tempest that is Kyle Orton were also products of this group. It’s hard to believe that Washington had to settle for Jason Campbell just one pick after Rodgers went to Green Bay.

It should be noted that the Jets, who are currently hoping that Rodgers can turn things around following a disappointing 2023, did not have a first-round pick in that year’s draft.

4) 2018

Round 1: Baker Mayfield (No. 1), Sam Darnold (No. 3), Josh Allen* (No. 7), Josh Rosen (No. 10), Lamar Jackson* (No. 32)
Round 3: Mason Rudolph (No. 76)
Round 4: Kyle Lauletta (No. 108)
Round 5: Mike White (No. 171)
Round 6: Luke Falk (No. 199), Tanner Lee (No. 203)
Round 7: Danny Etling (No. 219), Alex McGough (No. 220), Logan Woodside (No. 249)
Notable undrafted: Kyle Allen

Lamar Jackson, a two-time MVP and one of the world’s most interesting athletes, has made a remarkable comeback from two injury-plagued seasons to excel in Todd Monken’s offense in 2023. His impressive career record clearly demonstrates his ability to confound defensive coordinators everywhere. However, his story seems unfinished without a triumphant postseason run culminating in victory.

Josh Allen stands out as one of the most captivating powerhouses in football and a consistent contender for MVP. His occasional slip-ups are overlooked due to his unique ability to dominate a game with his signature style. Despite the increased pressure on the Bills following the trade of Stefon Diggs, Allen’s exhilarating long throws and stunning sprints keep Buffalo in the running.

Baker Mayfield had his shining moments, such as aiding Cleveland in securing their first playoff win since 1994 and establishing a league-wide rookie record with 27 touchdown passes at the time. However, the Browns replaced him with Deshaun Watson amidst chaos. Mayfield had a difficult period in Carolina, but his career took a positive turn with the Rams. After a successful season in Tampa, Mayfield is back on track.

Kevin O’Connell is among those in the league who believe in Sam Darnold’s abilities. He trusts the former first-round pick enough to have him start for the Vikings until their yet-to-be-named rookie is ready to take over.

On this list, Rosen is the less fortunate version of Josh, now only a memory in NFL history.

3) 2017

Round 1: Mitchell Trubisky* (No. 2), Patrick Mahomes* (No. 10), Deshaun Watson* (No. 12)
Round 2: DeShone Kizer (No. 52)
Round 3: Davis Webb (No. 87), C.J. Beathard (No. 104)
Round 4: Joshua Dobbs (No. 135)
Round 5: Nathan Peterman (No. 171)
Round 6: Brad Kaaya (No. 215)
Round 7: Chad Kelly (No. 253)
Notable undrafted: Taysom Hill, Nick Mullens

The decision of former general manager Ryan Pace to trade up for the inconsistent Mitchell Trubisky, while letting Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson slip through the cracks, is something Bears fans will remember for a long time. Mahomes, who is on track to be the best player of his generation, already has two MVP titles and three Lombardi trophies to his name, leaving little else to accomplish. Despite his consistent stellar performances over the past two years, even with limited resources, Mahomes is somehow still underrated, perhaps due to our familiarity with his excellence.

Mahomes alone can elevate this class to higher levels.

Watson is a theoretical Pro Bowl talent (last nod was in 2020) whose serious off-the-field issues didn’t stop the Browns from handing him more guaranteed money than any quarterback in history. Following his 11-game suspension in 2022, Watson hit the field as a hyper-rusty version of the player we once knew. Injuries and iffy play made 2023 a problematic picture. He’s under considerable pressure to operate as a top-five quarterback in 2024. Don’t hold your breath.

Joshua Dobbs lifted himself into Nick Mullens territory last season, providing enough gritty play — while changing teams two times — to show why he remains employed, even if he and Mullens both ultimately failed to make up for the loss of Kirk Cousins in Minnesota. Taysom Hill looms as a better gadget-magician than starting quarterback, but Sean Payton would happily author a book of sea poems about the man after their time together in New Orleans.

2) 2020

Round 1: Joe Burrow* (No. 1), Tua Tagovailoa* (No. 5), Justin Herbert* (No. 6), Jordan Love (No. 26)
Round 3: Jalen Hurts* (No. 53)
Round 4: Jacob Eason (No. 122), James Morgan (No. 125)
Round 5: Jake Fromm (No. 167)
Round 6: Jake Luton (No. 189)
Round 7: Cole McDonald (No. 224), Ben DiNucci (No. 231), Tommy Stevens (No. 240), Nate Stanley (No. 244)

The Class of 2020, with its impressive roster of franchise cornerstones, has the unique potential to be recognized as the best group we’ve ever witnessed. Joe Burrow, after leading the previously underperforming Bengals to Super Bowl LVI, raised the bar further in 2022 by delivering an outstanding 40-touchdown season, ultimately securing another AFC title game spot. Despite last fall being marred by injury, Burrow’s old-school, unshakeable warrior spirit is poised to transform Cincinnati’s future.

I continue to believe in Hurts. Two seasons ago, he performed on par with an MVP, leading the Eagles to the verge of a championship. The team’s collapse last year wasn’t solely his fault — some of his best plays were obscured by losses — but it does demand that he step up and reveal his full potential this September. His ultimate capabilities are still unknown.

With a rocket-like arm, perfect size, and intense toughness, Justin Herbert embodies everything we dream of in a quarterback. Following a series of tumultuous seasons under the previous management, Herbert now embarks on a fresh journey under the guidance of Jim Harbaugh.

Tua Tagovailoa has been a statistical wonder, spinning magic with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle under coach Mike McDaniel. He’s a polarizing operator who looks like an MVP candidate to some while causing a wandering eye in others.

Here’s what I wrote a year ago: “If Jordan Love becomes a reliable starter for the Packers in a post-Aaron Rodgers universe, this gaggle of precious arms looms as the stuff of dreams.” Love proceeded to go 9-8 and win a playoff game.

1) 2004

Round 1: Eli Manning* (No. 1), Philip Rivers* (No. 4), Ben Roethlisberger* (No. 11), J.P. Losman (No. 22)
Round 3: Matt Schaub* (No. 90)
Round 4: Luke McCown (No. 106)
Round 5: Craig Krenzel (No. 148)
Round 6: Andy Hall (No. 185), Josh Harris (No. 187), Jim Sorgi (No. 193), Jeff Smoker (No. 201)
Round 7: John Navarre (No. 202), Cody Pickett (No. 217), Casey Bramlet (No. 218), Matt Mauck (No. 225), B.J. Symons (No. 248), Bradlee Van Pelt (No. 250)

The gold standard for quarterback classes of the 21st century. The 2004 collection of signal-callers boasts four Super Bowl wins, while the group’s big three — Eli Manning, Philip Rivers and Ben Roethlisberger — can all make cases for the Hall of Fame. The trio’s 721 regular-season starts also tell the tale of ironman passers counted on to dress game after game and year after year by their respective teams. The Chargers and Giants will always be linked because of the draft-day trade that sent Manning to New York and Rivers to San Diego. Deep history today, though, with Eli dipped in retirement and Rivers calling it quits in 2020 after a one-year stint with the Colts. Of the group, Big Ben put together the finest career before hanging it up in 2021. The first round also included a titanic bust in J.P. Losman, but third-rounder Matt Schaub beat the odds to play for 17 seasons. Shame on those of you who don’t recall the feats of Matt Mauck. If this class came around every year, the league would be turning signal-callers away at the door.