The NFL’s Quarterback Conundrum: 10 Signal-Callers Under the Microscope
After a tumultuous first month of the 2024 NFL season, quarterback play has been a mixed bag. With the league’s passing yards per game at its lowest average in over two decades, teams are searching for answers under center. We checked in with 10 signal-callers after Week 4, and our reporters answered big questions about key situations at the game’s most important position.
**Buffalo Bills**
What is the main takeaway from Josh Allen’s hot start with a new receiving core?
Allen is still showcasing his elite skills, adapting well to new targets and playing at an MVP level. Despite a downturn in Week 4, his larger body of work demonstrates strong connections with Khalil Shakir and tight end Dalton Kincaid.
**Cleveland Browns**
What is the coaching staff’s level of concern about Deshaun Watson’s struggles?
The staff believes there have been bright moments to build on, despite Watson’s low QBR and yards per attempt. They’re focusing on improving his supporting cast, which has been plagued by drops and leaky protection.
**Jacksonville Jaguars**
How are the Jaguars addressing Trevor Lawrence’s early struggles as they try to get their first win of the season?
They’re trying to get him into a rhythm, using short, quick throws and play-action to get him rolling. Coach Doug Pederson believes that once Lawrence has a run of success, he’ll look like the quarterback he was in the first half of 2023.
**Minnesota Vikings**
What is most surprising about Sam Darnold’s hot start?
Darnold has played only five snaps when the Vikings are trailing, and all five snaps came in the first quarter of Week 1. He’s benefited from playing from ahead, which has given him flexibility in playcalling and put stress on opposing defenses.
**New England Patriots**
When might we see Drake Maye get his first start?
Veteran Jacoby Brissett has taken 40 quarterback hits, so Maye could start as soon as Week 6 if this pace continues. The eventual passing of the torch to Maye will depend on Brissett’s performance, Maye’s growth, and improved offensive line play.
**New York Giants**
What is the biggest thing that Daniel Jones can do to prove he’s the Giants’ guy beyond this year?
Win games and put up massive numbers. Jones needs to be one of the league’s best quarterbacks over the final 13 games to be the Giants’ starter beyond this season.
**New York Jets**
Was it ambitious to expect Aaron Rodgers to already be in top form?
Yes, it was unrealistic to expect vintage Rodgers on a week-to-week basis in the first month of the season. He’s a 40-year-old quarterback coming off Achilles surgery, and he’s flashed his MVP form in some games but looked his age in others.
**Philadelphia Eagles**
What can the Eagles do to mitigate Jalen Hurts’ turnover issues?
Hurts needs to get the ball out of his hands quickly with short rhythm throws to his playmakers. Leaning into the ground game and putting Hurts in more favorable second- and third-down situations will help keep the turnovers to a minimum.
**Pittsburgh Steelers**
What’s the latest on the Steelers’ QB1 situation going forward? Is this officially Justin Fields’ job?
Coach Mike Tomlin isn’t touching the depth chart until Russell Wilson is healthy enough to play, so Fields won’t be anything other than an interim starter until then. Fields has improved with each game despite slow starts and recurring miscues.
**Washington Commanders**
What three words best describe Jayden Daniels’ rookie campaign so far?
Poise, accuracy, humility. Daniels has shown impressive pocket presence, accuracy, and humility, leading his team to victories and earning the respect of his teammates.
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