Why NFL Teams Gamble on Starting Rookie Quarterbacks

Blitzed: Why NFL Teams Gamble on Starting Rookie Quarterbacks

by Ken Xiao

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2762 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	202 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In the NFL, there is always a lot of talk about rookie quarterbacks. Every year, teams draft young signal-callers with the hope that they will one day be the face of their franchise. But how often do rookie quarterbacks actually start? And is it worth it to gamble on a rookie quarterback?

In the past decade, there have been a number of rookie quarterbacks who have made an immediate impact on their teams. Cam Newton, Russell Wilson, and Dak Prescott are just a few examples of rookie quarterbacks who have led their teams to the playoffs in their first season. However, there have also been a number of rookie quarterbacks who have struggled to find success in the NFL. For every Cam Newton, there is a Ryan Leaf or a JaMarcus Russell.

So, why do NFL teams gamble on starting rookie quarterbacks? There are a few reasons.

1. Potential: Rookie quarterbacks have a lot of potential. They are young, athletic, and have not yet developed any bad habits. If a team can find a rookie quarterback with the right skills and intangibles, they have the potential to be a franchise-changing player.
2. Cost: Rookie quarterbacks are relatively inexpensive. They are paid on a rookie contract, which is much cheaper than the contract of a veteran quarterback. This can save a team a lot of money, which can be used to improve other areas of the team.
3. Excitement: Rookie quarterbacks can bring excitement to a team. They represent the future of the franchise, and they can give fans hope for a brighter tomorrow. This can be a valuable asset for a team that is trying to rebuild or generate buzz.

Of course, there are also some risks associated with starting a rookie quarterback.

1. Inconsistent play: Rookie quarterbacks are often inconsistent. They can make mistakes that veteran quarterbacks would not make. This can lead to losses and frustration for the team.
2. Pressure: Rookie quarterbacks are under a lot of pressure. They are expected to lead their team to success, and they are often criticized when they make mistakes. This can be overwhelming for a young player.
3. Injury: Rookie quarterbacks are more likely to get injured than veteran quarterbacks. This is because they are not as experienced and they are not as strong. An injury to a rookie quarterback can derail a team's season.

So, is it worth it to gamble on a rookie quarterback? There is no easy answer to this question. It depends on a number of factors, including the team's situation, the quarterback's potential, and the risks involved. However, if a team can find the right rookie quarterback, it can be a very rewarding gamble.

Here are some of the factors that NFL teams consider when deciding whether or not to start a rookie quarterback:

• The team's record: If a team is struggling, they may be more likely to start a rookie quarterback in an effort to spark a turnaround. If there's no other option for the team, then a rookie quarterback can be thrown into the fire and see if they can get the team a win.
• The quarterback's experience: If a rookie quarterback has a lot of experience playing in a pro-style offense, they may be more ready to start in the NFL. But, if a rookie quarterback hasn't played in a pro-style offense, it's a great idea to have them sit for a year and learn from a veteran quarterback.
• The quarterback's physical skills: Rookie quarterbacks should possess the following physical skills: arm strength, accuracy, mobility, and athleticism.
• The quarterback's intangibles: Rookie quarterbacks should possess the following intangibles: leadership, intelligence, competitiveness, and toughness.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to start a rookie quarterback is a difficult one. However, if a team does its due diligence and considers all of the factors involved, they can increase their chances of making the right decision.

Here are some examples of rookie quarterbacks who have been successful in the NFL:

• Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs
• Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
• Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
• Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals
• Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars

These are just a few examples of rookie quarterbacks who have made an immediate impact on their teams. Of course, there are also many examples of rookie quarterbacks who have struggled to find success in the NFL. However, if a team can find the right rookie quarterback, it can be a very rewarding gamble.

The decision of whether or not to start a rookie quarterback is a difficult one. However, if a team does its due diligence and considers all of the factors involved, they can increase their chances of making the right decision. If a team can find the right rookie quarterback, it can be a very rewarding gamble.

Blitzed: Why NFL Teams Gamble on Starting Rookie Quarterbacks

by Ken Xiao

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2762 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	202 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE