Robert Griffin III: Eagles QB Jalen Hurts will show 'extreme growth' as a passer this season

The former Baylor Bears signal-caller's view comes on the heels of last week's "NFL Quarterback Tiers 2022" being released by Mike Sando of The Athletic, which placed Hurts in Tier 3 along with the likes of Kirk Cousins, Jimmy Garoppolo and Ryan Tannehill. Furthermore, Hurts sits in a tie with Washington Commanders quarterback Carson Wentz for 20th place overall, behind Cousins, "Jimmy G.," Tannehill, Mac Jones and Baker Mayfield -- who rank 15th through 19th respectively.

Hurts and Wentz edge out the QBs at the bottom of Tier 3, including Jared Goff, Trevor Lawrence and Jameis Winston (22nd, 23rd and 24th respectively). According to Sando's rankings, those under center in Tier 3 are classified as a "legitimate starter but needs a heavier running game and/or defensive component to win. A lower-volume dropback passing offense suits him best."

"Hurts jumped 10 spots from last season, the largest year-over-year gain (Burrow climbed nine spots). Some of that was because Hurts debuted so low as a player with minimal experience and a modest pedigree, but voters also admire Hurts for his approach to the game despite seeing limitations that most feel will prevent Hurts from climbing into Tier 2," Sando wrote. "The prevailing thought on Hurts is that he’s doing an excellent job running an offense that the Eagles’ coaching staff has effectively tailored to his strengths, and that he’ll need to grow considerably as a passer for Philly to contend."

Hurts finished his second NFL regular season last year with a 61.3 percent completion percentage for 31,44 passing yards, 16 touchdowns and nine interceptions. The 23-year-old added 139 carries for 784 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in 15 games played.