The recent NFL Drafts have seen rookie quarterbacks making significant impacts right out of the gate. Can a quarterback from the 2024 NFL Draft replicate CJ Stroud’s impressive rookie season? Well, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. With the depth of talent in this year’s quarterback class, it wouldn’t be surprising to see at least a couple of them achieve similar success to Stroud with the Houston Texans.
Stroud’s inaugural season saw him throw 23 touchdowns with just five interceptions, boasting an impressive 100.8 passer rating. He played a pivotal role in leading the Texans to a 10-win season and even clinching a playoff victory, positioning the team as a serious Super Bowl contender for both the present and future.
So, who among the 2024 NFL Draft quarterbacks could potentially make a comparable impact in their first year? The obvious candidate appears to be Caleb Williams. He’s entering a favorable situation with the Bears, where GM Ryan Poles has overhauled the offense, assembling a talented group of playmakers and solidifying the offensive line. Additionally, the Bears’ defense closed out the 2023 season strong, setting the stage for potential success akin to the Texans’ trajectory from 2022 to 2023. It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Bears finish the season with a winning record, barring Williams experiencing a significant setback.
Another contender worth considering is Bo Nix, who stands out as the most NFL-ready quarterback aside from Caleb Williams. While other prospects like Drake Maye and JJ McCarthy might require some development time, and doubts linger around Jayden Daniels and Michael Penix Jr, Nix seems primed for success. His skill set, particularly his football IQ, aligns well with what is needed for a successful NFL starter.
A potential landing spot for Nix could be with the Denver Broncos under the guidance of Sean Payton, whose offensive system mirrors what Nix excelled in at Oregon. Nix may not ascend to the ranks of elite quarterbacks, but he could certainly perform at a level comparable to quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, Jared Goff, and Kirk Cousins.
In summary, Caleb Williams and Bo Nix are the two quarterbacks from the 2024 draft class who have the potential to make an immediate impact akin to CJ Stroud’s with the Houston Texans.
