With the 2024 NFL Draft just around the corner, the conversation is once again fixated on the quarterback position. Three quarterbacks are expected to be taken within the first three picks, which would mark just the fourth time in history that’s happened. However, as we approach the draft, it’s worth revisiting the 2021 NFL Draft and the downfall of most of its quarterbacks to use as a cautionary tale.
No. 1 overall: Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars
Lawrence is far and away the most successful quarterback from his class, as the former No. 1 overall pick is the lone player who remains with the franchise that drafted him. That said, his first three seasons in the league have been a bit of a rollercoaster. He’s shown flashes of greatness, but he’s also struggled with consistency and injuries.
No. 2 overall: Zach Wilson, New York Jets
Wilson’s Jets tenure has been a disaster. He was drafted as the Jets’ franchise quarterback, but he has failed to live up to expectations. He’s been injured, he’s played poorly, and he’s been benched multiple times. The Jets have now traded Wilson to the Denver Broncos.
No. 3 overall: Trey Lance, San Francisco 49ers
Lance may be the biggest flop of the bunch. The 49ers traded a monumental haul to move up to No. 3 for the opportunity to select Lance, but it blew up in their face. Lance suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 2 of the 2022 season, and he was traded to the Dallas Cowboys in August 2023.
No. 11 overall: Justin Fields, Chicago Bears
Fields has shown some flashes of elite play, particularly with his rushing ability. However, his development as a passer has left little to be desired. The Bears traded Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers in March 2023.
No. 15 overall: Mac Jones, New England Patriots
Jones looked like a promising young quarterback in his rookie season. However, his development went off the rails in his sophomore season after the Patriots installed Joe Judge and Matt Patricia to run the offense. Jones was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars in March 2023.
So, as we approach the 2024 NFL Draft, it’s important to remember that investing heavily in quarterbacks in the first round doesn’t come without plenty of risk. Just ask the decision-makers from the 2021 NFL Draft.
