Some NFL teams feature elite quarterbacks, while others do not. So, which of the league's eight divisions have the strongest overall talent at quarterback? In other words, which divisions offer the most entertainment based on their combined star power at the position, and which ones are expected to be the most competitive?
Here’s a ranking of all eight divisions, from least to best, as we head into the 2024 NFL season:
8. **NFC South**
- Kirk Cousins (Falcons)
- Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers)
- Derek Carr (Saints)
- Bryce Young (Panthers)
This division is generally considered the weakest. Cousins is a reliable and mechanically sound pocket passer but is nearing 36 and recovering from a serious injury while adjusting to a new lineup. Mayfield is scrappy but inconsistent, Carr is resilient yet streaky, and Young, despite his poise, is still a major unknown after a sluggish debut. Betting on any of these quarterbacks carries risk.
7. **AFC West**
- Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs)
- Justin Herbert (Chargers)
- Aidan O'Connell (Raiders)
- Bo Nix (Broncos)
This division is top-heavy. Mahomes, a future Hall of Famer with three Super Bowl titles in five years, is always a thrilling watch. Herbert, a prototype quarterback with a laser arm, faces challenges due to questionable coaching. The rest are uncertain: O'Connell showed promise as a rookie fill-in but might be replaced by Gardner Minshew, and Nix, despite his efficient college career, remains an unknown. This is largely a two-horse race.
6. **AFC South**
- C.J. Stroud (Texans)
- Trevor Lawrence (Jaguars)
- Will Levis (Titans)
- Anthony Richardson (Colts)
This division is defined by young talent and potential. Stroud, after a dynamic debut, aims to meet MVP expectations. Lawrence is looking to live up to a hefty contract with mixed results. Levis and Richardson both have the potential to become game-changers but come with limited experience and injury concerns. If all stay healthy, this division could be explosive.
5. **NFC North**
- Jordan Love (Packers)
- Jared Goff (Lions)
- Sam Darnold (Vikings)
- Caleb Williams (Bears)
This group has seen significant changes. Love, with a lively arm, promises to be a major asset for Green Bay. Goff has rejuvenated himself and leads one of the league's most balanced offenses. Darnold might be a placeholder for rookie J.J. McCarthy but has potential for career-high marks. Williams, though yet to play in the NFL, has natural playmaking skills. This division could rise rapidly in the near future.
4. **NFC East**
- Jalen Hurts (Eagles)
- Dak Prescott (Cowboys)
- Daniel Jones (Giants)
- Jayden Daniels (Commanders)
This division features top-heavy talent but with more proven production and potential upside. Hurts, though more mercurial, has shown Super Bowl-caliber ability. Prescott, one of the NFL's savviest all-around passers, lacks a strong postseason resume. Jones has had turnover and injury issues but led a playoff run as a dual threat. Daniels, despite concerns about his frame, could bring significant excitement. At least two of these quarterbacks are likely playoff-bound.
3. **NFC West**
- Brock Purdy (49ers)
- Matthew Stafford (Rams)
- Geno Smith (Seahawks)
- Kyler Murray (Cardinals)
This division is about winning. Purdy has been remarkably effective for San Francisco, showing efficiency and play-extending skills. Stafford, despite injury concerns, still has a strong arm and experience. Smith, though inconsistent, has shown clutch ability. Murray, while erratic, is elusive and finally has support. This division could be highly competitive.
2. **AFC East**
- Josh Allen (Bills)
- Aaron Rodgers (Jets)
- Tua Tagovailoa (Dolphins)
- Jacoby Brissett (Patriots)
This is the boom-or-bust division. Allen is a dynamic force as a scrambler and deep-ball launcher. Rodgers, despite age and injury concerns, remains a skilled thrower. Tagovailoa, a precise passer, is still proving himself on the big stage. Brissett, better suited as a backup, is a solid bridge to rookie Drake Maye. This division could feature three Pro Bowl-caliber quarterbacks.
1. **AFC North**
- Joe Burrow (Bengals)
- Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
- Deshaun Watson (Browns)
- Russell Wilson (Steelers)
This division, aside from the Mahomes-weighted AFC West, features a top-two with two NFL MVPs and three conference championship appearances. Burrow, when healthy, is an elite passer under pressure. Jackson is a dynamic threat with improved aerial skills. Watson, though unpredictable, has shown Pro Bowl flashes. Wilson, although past his prime, has significant experience and could be challenged by Justin Fields. This division is known for tough competition and could be very competitive.
