The NFC is home to the last of the dinosaurs at the QB position, minus Ben Roethlisberger in the AFC. Prior to Drew Brees’ retirement after the season, the NFC South division combined to have the highest average age for starting QBs, at 37 years old, meaning experience and skill were in no shortage. This year should be even more exciting, with a new era starting in New Orleans, the biggest trade this offseason in Atlanta, hopes for a repeat in Tampa Bay, and hopes to keep up with the rest in Carolina. Who has the best QB running the show in the division? Let’s find out.
4. Sam Darnold- Panthers
One of the more surprising moves this offseason, Sam Darnold will be the new starter in the pocket for Carolina. After a rough start in New York with the Jets, Darnold will get a chance to ignite his young career and live up to the pre-draft hype. The only problem is it won’t be as soon as we would all like. Darnold is in a new system and will have a few bumps along the way, especially in his first season. I believe Darnold could become a top QB in the league (just not in this year), but look for him to at least take a huge step this season.
3. Matt Ryan- Falcons
Early in the offseason, rumors of trading Matt Ryan were being floated around, but ultimately the team decided to stay with their long-time captain. Instead, they traded veteran WR Julio Jones to the Titans for a couple draft picks, leaving Matt Ryan to look for another downfield threat in the offense this season. Fourth overall pick Kyle Pitts should be the clear cut number two receiver behind Calvin Ridley, and the rookie will have to be ready early if the Falcons want to make a run. Unfortunately, there are just too many variables in Atlanta to make Matt Ryan the second best QB in the division.
2. Taysom Hill/Jameis Winston- Saints
The most interesting position battle in the league is at quarterback, and New Orleans is right in the thick of it with a huge question mark as to who will be the starter for the season. As of now, it seems as if Hill will get the start, since he has more experience in Sean Payton’s system, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Winston gets a few snaps per game. Whomever the starter may be, they should have a better season than the previous two QBs on this list, based on the Saints skill of their o-line. Alvin Kamara will also be a big help in taking the some of the weight off of these guys’ shoulders, plus a lot of fans are interested to see Winston get another chance after studying under Drew Brees last season.
1. Tom Brady- Buccaneers
The reigning Super Bowl MVP, Tom Brady is like a fine wine because it seems as if he’s only getting better with age. Heading into the season, Brady has faced a lot less scrutiny than in the last offseason, hugely due to his ability to change teams and bring home a ring in just his first year. This could be the year he begins to slow down… OR he could just keep on trucking through the record books and we wouldn’t be surprised! Bringing back the entire offensive line, and even using their first round pick on another tackle, should help solidify Brady’s protection this upcoming season and make him, BY FAR, the best QB in the division.
