Grading NFL's next generation of quarterbacks: Trevor Lawrence, other Year 2 pros struggle in Week 1 - CBSSports.com

2022-09-16 20:34:00 By : Ms. Macy Chiang

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The 2022 NFL draft class didn't have near as much glitz and glam at the quarterback position as the class before it, but that 2021 group of passers have now entered the ever-important Year 2, so it's time to begin meticulously assessing them as they represent part of the new era at the game's most critical position.

A grand total of five quarterbacks selected in the past two NFL draft classes -- all from 2021 -- saw considerable playing time during a wild Week 1, and some of the performances weren't exactly as expected.

Let's dive deep into the individual efforts of each quarterback and assign a grade on a per-snap basis, taking every individual aspect of their performance into account. At least 10 attempts were needed to qualify for this debut piece, which will come out weekly on Tuesdays

Summary: Lawrence's arm talent really popped in the opener. Everything else about his effort on the road was blah to really bad. His accuracy was shoddy for most of the contest and he was frenetic in the pocket -- although his offensive line got demolished in most cases. Not the best season debut for Lawrence. However, altogether, Jacksonville's offense looks more organized and competent than it did a year ago.

Grade: D+ Season Grade: D+

Summary: Jones didn't look much different than what he showed during the majority of 2021 -- significant attacking of the flats, quick checkdowns and arm strength that limits his ceiling. There were a few quality touch passes but also times when he looked out of sorts and physically incapable of doing what was necessary for a connection to be made.  

Grade: D+ Season Grade: D+

Summary: This game needs to be graded with a curve, because Fields dealt with significant rain for the majority of it. Naturally, the Bears weren't too keen on throwing the ball, and there were some clearly wayward misfires likely due to the soaked conditions. However, after a rough start, Fields slowly battled back by first leaning on his athleticism and then made some critical throws late in the upset victory. 

Grade: C- Season Grade: C-

Summary: Lance was not outstanding in this game. Far from. But it looked like he got the worst of the heaviest rain in this monsoon contest, particularly in the fourth quarter. He clearly doesn't look comfortable reading through his progressions in the pocket, and accuracy issues will arise at times. But the second-year passer also did some nice things as a passer, too, especially considering the conditions.

Grade: C- Season Grade: C-

Summary: Much like the Texans afternoon against the Colts, it was a rollercoaster of a day for Mills. He had high-caliber, hey-he-might-be-a-franchise-quarterback tosses followed by the throws that will make it easy for the Texans to draft a quarterback high in next year's draft and move on from Mills next year. 

Grade: C- Season Grade: C-

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