Six quarterbacks were selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft. As many as five of the rookie passers — all chosen within the first 12 picks — could start as rookies next season.
Most of the hype centered around the top three: Caleb Williams (Bears), Jayden Daniels (Commanders) and Drake Maye (Patriots). However, J.J. McCarthy (Vikings) could be an under-the-radar contender for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year if he can beat out veteran Sam Darnold for the starting job. After all, Minnesota’s starting quarterback will be throwing to the NFL’s best wide receiver, Justin Jefferson.
But most believe Williams and Daniels will be the top rookie passers. Both are expected to start Week 1 and have good supporting casts around them. The biggest concern with Daniels isn’t him or his weapons but his offensive line.
CBS recently ranked which five rookie passers would be the most productive, and it contained a surprise. A surprise at No. 5 and a surprise at who was left off the list. Hint: It’s Maye.
Here’s the top five: