As we approach the start of the 2024 Free Agency period, there are many quarterbacks around the league unsure of where, or even if, they will play next season. In this article, we will break down 3 of the most intriguing QB stories, what there options are for next season, and how that will effect their careers in the future.
#1) Sam Howell: Washington Commanders
Howell, who was once projected to be a top 10 pick, ended up going in the 5th round, #144 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. He got his first chance to start late in the 22-23 season, and looked solid while doing so. Heading into his second year, he was given the chance to takeover, and would start in week 1. For the first half of the season, fans thought they had found the one. Even though his turnovers were an issue, Howell was able to take on a heavy number of passes game after game as he made his way to the top of the league in terms of passing yards.
Shortly thereafter, however, things went downhill. The interception levels rose as the touchdowns went down, and fans started to call for backup Jacoby Brissett to step in, and that he did. Both times, Brissett showed that the team was entirely capable of winning with capable QB play.
Now, the Commanders hold the number 2 overall pick in the draft, and are almost certainly selecting a Quarterback. There are reportedly several teams interested in Howell as a project guy that could turn into a Franchise QB. As of right now, it appears he will be a backup next year, but a team like the Vikings or Seahawks could be interested in him, as they have older QBs on expiring contracts.
#2) Russell Wilson: Denver Broncos
Late in the 23-24 season, the Broncos benched Wilson in favor of Jarret Stidham, reportedly because of a clause in his contract involving injuries and guaranteed money. However, after a rough start to his Broncos tenure, Wilson bounced back in 2023 and had the team contending in just about every game. The organization is expected to make a decision on his future with the team within the week, but in my opinion, his Denver career is all but over.
If released, there will surely be several team's vying for Wilson's experience and playstyle. The only factor that I expect to worry team's is the money he will ask for, the same thing that is causing the end of his time in Denver. Although, if a team truly needs his services, there will likely not be a strict limit on the money they can spend.
It is important to not rule out Wilson staying with the Broncos, but assuming he is let go, a team like the Falcons that has talented skill players but generally inconsistent QB play could look to sign him. Or, the Raiders, an inter-division team with a star WR in Davante Adams and an excellent defense could get Wilson to try and get over the hump. No matter where he goes, though, Russell Wilson is sure to make a positive impact on his new (or current) team.
#1) Justin Fields: Chicago Bears
Justin Fields is one of the most intriguing stories of the entire offseason. The Chicago Bears hold the #1 Overall pick via a previous trade with the Carolina Panthers. However, much of the Bears' struggles throughout the past few years could not be traced back to Fields. There have been constant coaching changes, as well as an ever-changing WR core and horrific offensive line play. Despite all of this, Justin Fields has made a name for himself as one of the best running QBs in the game whilst elevating receivers around him.
Still, the front office is being forced to decide between Fields and Caleb Williams, the surefire #1 QB in the draft who is being advertised as a generational talent. If they do decide to pass on Williams, they could get much needed O-line help or instant star WR Marvin Harrison Jr., although WR is nowhere near their top concern.
Let's say they do take Williams, and Fields is left on a team where there is clearly no place for him. Once again, the Raiders, Seahawks, Falcons, or Vikings could be in play. Separate from that, though, the Denver Broncos could look to inject some more youth into their team and get an explosive QB to pair with receivers Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton (assuming they are both still their). Much like Wilson, Fields should make an immediate impact if he were to go to a new team, but it is still entirely possible he stays with the Bears.
-Eli Knight
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