There are currently seven starting NFL quarterbacks in their first or second season. Three of those quarterbacks were among the top five picks of the 2023 NFL draft (Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud & Anthony Richardson).
The other four come from the 2022 NFL draft; only one was a first-round pick (Pittsburgh’s Kenny Pickett).
Of the three rookies, Stroud is off to the best start. The former Ohio State star has the Houston Texans competitive for the first time in what seems like forever.
Of course, one quarterback from the past two classes stands above all: Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers. Unbelievably, Purdy was Mr. Irrelevant in the 2022 draft, yet he improved to 10-0 as a starting quarterback after the 49ers’ blowout win over the Dallas Cowboys.
The other two quarterbacks we haven’t mentioned: Sam Howell (Washington Commanders) and Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons). Interestingly enough, Howell and Ridder meet in Week 6.
Howell was a fifth-round selection in 2022, while Ridder a third-round selection. While rankings are subjective, how do all seven of these quarterbacks stack up against one another?
According to NFL draft analyst Chris Trapasso of CBS Sports, Howell and Purdy sit at the top, with Stroud close behind.
With the long-term in mind, here's how I'd rank 1st and 2nd year QBs based on what they've done individually, entering Week 6 (must have started 2+ games):
1a. Sam Howell
1b. Brock Purdy
3. C.J. Stroud
4. Anthony Richardson
5. Desmond Ridder
6. Kenny Pickett
7. Bryce Young— Chris Trapasso 🏈 (@ChrisTrapasso) October 10, 2023
Some will argue these rankings, but again, we remind you, they are subjective. There are so many variables when ranking quarterbacks, such as the team around them, what they’ve done and what you project them to be moving forward.
Howell has opened eyes around the NFL, despite a league-high 29 sacks. He makes multiple high-level throws each week and went toe-to-toe with the Eagles in an overtime loss.
Purdy has unfairly been dubbed a system quarterback, playing for Kyle Shanahan.
In watching each of these young passers, Trapasso is right in ranking Howell, Purdy and Stroud above all, whether you disagree with the order or not.
Something else Trapasso has done is grade each of the passers each week. He gave Howell a “B” for his performance in Week 5, and he has a “B-” for the season. Trapasso gives Purdy a “B” for the season and Stroud a “B-” like Howell.
