Shuttershock
The NFL season is almost upon us, and with it comes the anticipation of which team will make it to the Super Bowl. Arguably the most influential player in a team – and a determining factor in their success – is the Quarterback.
The QB is the player you need for the win, and this list will go through the QB’s that you should not only pay attention to but could also be the players that have the biggest effect on their team’s success.
Patrick Mahomes
Patrick Mahomes has been the name on everyone’s lips since his stellar performance that led the Chiefs to win The Super Bowl in 2019. A disappointing loss to the Bucs in last season’s Super Bowl has most definitely lit a fire under the young QB.
The Chiefs are blessed with one of the strongest offenses in the league, and Mahomes has certainly found the best way to not only utilize this attack, but keep his opponents guessing. If he manages to stay fit, he could lead his team to a third consecutive Super Bowl.
Tom Brady
Tom Brady, the man who can seemingly go forever, has proved that age will never trump natural skill and talent. Joining the Bucs and winning the Super Bowl was a shock to most people, but Brady made it look easy.
He also showed that his relationship with teammate Gronk is as strong as it was during their time in New England. A few seasons ago you might say the Bucs were dark horses to win it all, but right now they can easily be viewed as favorites.
Russell Wilson
Coming off a season where he let 13 interceptions go (more than his 2018 and 2019 seasons combined) Russell Wilson is looking to prove once again that he should be considered one of the best QBs in the league.
What can’t be ignored is his consistency. If the Seahawks can protect him properly and have their offense run like a well-oiled machine, we could see Wilson cause serious damage against opponents that take them lightly.
Dak Prescott
Dak Prescott is in a tough position. He is a QB with tremendous ability and an eye for the game, but he plays for a team that has been disappointing at best. Dallas is going to have to step up if they want Prescott to do the same.
As mentioned, he is praised as an individual player, but he is often let down by his team. This, in turn, makes him look bad. If they can get themselves together and play like the team Cowboys fans know and love, Dak is going to be a problem for the rest of the league.
Matthew Stafford
Matthew Stafford is a player that many have wanted to see out of Detroit for a long time. Much like Dak Prescott, he is a seriously talented player who just hasn’t been on the right team. However, a trade to Los Angeles could be the change he needs.
Sean McVay has sung Stafford’s praises since he joined the Rams, and considering McVay is one of the strongest offensive-minded coaches in the league, he will be giving Stafford everything he needs to succeed.
Tua Tagovailoa
The Tua Project down in Miami hasn’t quite gone to plan just yet. While he hasn’t been terrible, he hasn’t lived up to the expectations that were surrounding him for so long. That has the potential to all change.
The Dolphins signed wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, the former teammate of Tua back in Alabama. They had a Brady/Gronk relationship in college, and if they find that fire again, this could be Tua’s season.
Trevor Lawrence
One of the brightest young talents has signed with a team coming off one of their worst seasons in history. The Jags finished off 2020 with a 1-15 record, and Lawrence is the man who is supposedly going to turn that all around.
While his talent is clear, he has a ton of weight on his shoulders. This coming season could be one where Lawrence and the Jags instantly click and go positive by the time the regular season ends. Or he’ll make no difference at all – only time will tell.
Joe Burrow
This is going to be Burrow’s rookie season redo. An ACL injury quickly ended a season that was heading towards Burrow being the Offensive Rookie of the Year. However, he is now back, and stronger than ever.
With Ja’Marr Chase and Pooka Williams Jr added to the mix, this Bengals team can easily become play-offs and even Super Bowl dark horses. We’re hoping that Burrow stays injury-free because we could see the best he has to offer this season.
Justin Herbert
The reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year is looking to turn his debut season success into a bit of a run. The Chargers have been simmering for a while now, and Herbert looks like the man that can take them to the top.
There is some apprehension as there has been a coaching change in the team, but hopefully, the system stays the same – because it can only get better, along with Herbert’s natural throwing and leadership abilities.
