1. Rookie QBs are Overhyped.
2020 had a tremendous class of instant impact QBs including Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Tua, and Jalen Hurts. But 2021’s rookies are underperforming. Trevor Lawerence struggles, to say the least. Meanwhile, Zach Wilson is improving but started off rough. The three most impactful rookie QBs: 1. Trey Lance, who only started three games. 2. Mac Jones, who has been good for a playoff team. 3. Davis Mills, who has been the bright spot on the Texans. There was too much hype for Lawerence and Wilson and they failed to deliver.
2. Cleveland Needs a New QB.
Baker Mayfield excelled in his rookie year, struggled in his sophomore season, but bounced back in year three. Unfortunately, year four has been a different story. Baker flailed, sustained injuries, and drove off his best receiver. Seemingly, Baker continues to deal with his issues on social media instead of focusing on football. Cleveland needs to trade or release Baker and build around Nick Chubb and Myles Garrett. A veteran QB would be a great fit (Marcus Mariota, Nick Foles, Gardner Minshew).
3. The Saints Would Have Been a Contender With Jameis.
The Saints experienced great QB play from 2005-2020. After Drew Brees retired, the keys were handed to Jameis Winston. Jameis led the Saints to a 5-2 record with wins over Tampa, Green Bay, and New England. Jameis tore his ACL in Week 8, as a result, Trevor Sieman and Taysom Hill stepped up to the plate. Things did not go well and the Saints lost more than they won, although they beat Tampa twice. Jameis should get another chance with the Saints or he will be starting on another team.
4. Las Vegas is Not a Good Environment for Young Talent.
The Las Vegas Raiders’ season has truly been a roller coaster ride. Firstly, Head Coach Jon Gruden was fired for offensive emails. Secondly, Henry Ruggs Jr., a young wide receiver, was arrested for vehicular manslaughter and DUI charges. Thirdly, Damon Arnette Sr. was released following an Instagram post of him threatening people with a weapon. And most recently, rookie corner Nate Hobbs was arrested for DUI. Is Vegas the best place for impressionable young athletes?
5. The Titans Are Still Good Without Derrick Henry.
When Derrick Henry was injured early in the season, people thought the Titans were finished, but Tennessee rebounded. The Titans went 12-5 with Ryan Tannehill, an injured Julio Jones, and AJ Brown for eight weeks. Donta’ Foreman performed very well in Henry’s absence and the defense stepped up. Henry will return in the playoffs and the Titans hold the #1 seed, expect a playoff run.
