History was made Thursday in the 2024 NFL Draft, with six quarterbacks become first round picks. Only one other time has the draft seen many signal-callers go off the board on day one, and that was in 1983. But now comes the more important conversation: Which of this year’s half-dozen quarterback investments is best positioned for long-term investments? long-term success?
Here’s how we would rank first-round team-quarterback pairs:
Selection: 12th overall
Stylistically, there might not have been a better fit for Nix than Denver, with coach Sean Payton preferring an effective point guard for his controlled system. The problem is the surrounding configuration. At 24 years old, with no legitimate challenger in the quarterback room, Nix will be asked to produce immediately, even if his supporting cast doesn’t necessarily look like a true contender.
Selection: 8th overall
Penix has the deep ball that new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson oversaw with Matthew Stafford in Los Angeles. And the Falcons are built to compete for the playoffs right now. But, boy, is it hard to get a good read on the current plan when the ink is practically still drying on Kirk Cousins’ $180 million deal to lead this franchise. In a perfect world, Penix would sit back and learn, but he would also be 24 as a rookie.
Selection: 2nd overall
The LSU product certainly adds electricity to Washington, and coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is used to mentoring dual-threat types. But Kingsbury’s Kyler Murray duo hasn’t developed exactly as expected in Arizona, and Daniels’ wiry frame and tendency to run will cause durability issues. Call it a boom-or-bust duo for a new regime determined to find a home run hitter under center.
Selection: 3rd overall
Much like the guy who went No. 1 overall, Maye would have been a solid pick for just about any team because of his prototypical blend of size, mobility, and arm talent. He just fits the total package, and a more conservative regime led by coach Jerod Mayo and offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt could actually help him early in his career alongside veteran Jacoby Brissett.
Selection: 10th overall
This is a classic case of landing more limited prospects in an ideal setting. That’s not to say McCarthy isn’t good; he’s just a harsher projection, coming from a game- and action-intensive system. Good for him, though, as his composure now heads to a playoff-caliber roster loaded with star talent and led by proven coaches on both sides of the ball. He should make Minnesota competitive right away.
Selection: 1st overall
How can you go with someone else? Williams’ unmatched dynamism against the dual threat would have been a major asset to any organization. The Bears have also better improved their offensive infrastructure this offseason, ensuring Williams won’t enter a barren scene. His gunslinger will inevitably get him into trouble, but he and Chicago will be one of the must-see teams in 2024 thanks to their extra juice.
