AFC West: Ranking The Franchise Quarterbacks

With no argument, the AFC West could be the most competitive in all of the NFL. Quarterbacks exemplify this point clearly.

For the last few years, the AFC West quickly evolved into the toughest division. Now, blessed with four outstanding quarterbacks, the West looks just a bit wilder. In adding Russell Wilson via blockbuster trade, the division boasts four Top-20 quarterbacks. With that said, how do they rank?

Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City)

The gold standard in the division, Mahomes still sits atop the AFC West. Despite losing Tyreek Hill via trade, the Chiefs still employ an elite passer. Last year, he threw more regular-season passes than ever (658). At the same time, his thirteen interceptions also were career highs. However, what sets Mahomes apart from the other talented three is the burden. On the field, the Chiefs display an offensive juggernaut that enables a rather mundane defense to pin their ears back with large leads. Additionally, throwing to Travis Kelce, arguably the best tight end in football won’t hurt.

Justin Herbert (Los Angeles)

Herbert enters his third year, looking to add to a statistically outstanding start to his career. Herbert, ever confident in his arm, increased his on-target throw percent to eighty percent. Surprising considering the Chargers dropped thirty-eight passes last season. The next step needs to involve a playoff appearance. Herbert, along with Ekeler, Allen, Williams, and Palmer must find a way to get the Chargers into the playoffs. The film shows a supremely talented passer with touch and the mobility to escape the pocket. The standings say that great stats must begin to translate to wins.

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Derek Carr (Las Vegas)

This one took a while to decide. Granted, Russell Wilson is a Hall of Fame quarterback. Yet, his left tackle holds at an exceedingly high clip. As a result, Carr slides into the third spot. No quarterback in the AFC West possesses the tenure of Carr. However, few quarterbacks possess a constant change in staff and philosophies. Granted, entering his ninth year, Carr will now throw to a top-five receiver in Davante Adams. Josh McDaniels will tailor an offense that highlights Carr’s strengths while minimizing his flaws.

Russell Wilson (Broncos)

After a monster trade that sent multiple high picks to Seattle, the Broncos land their best quarterback since Peyton Manning. Wilson, steps into Colorado with a talented receiving corps, led by Jerry Jeudy. On the other side, Courtland Sutton’s ability to muscle corners downfield should benefit them in the red zone. Meanwhile, the run game needs to provide balance. How much does Melvin Gordon have left? Wilson throws the best ball in the AFC West. At 33. how much of the prime Wilson will the Broncos see?

Overview

The AFC West will come down to the final few weekends. With four stellar quarterbacks, the days of a division week off ended. Now, the schedule looks like a gauntlet, with teams surviving, as they make their way into the playoffs.