While the playoffs decide the rest of the draft order, I thought it would be good to hit positional specifics. One of my favorite positions in the draft to scout is quarterback. I may not always get it right (see Justin Herbert), but it’s about the memories we make along the way.
This group is unique to past QB classes because there is no clear QB1. Trevor Lawrence, Joe Burrow, and even Kyler Murray sat comfortably at the top of their class. While they may not be the most talented QB in that specific class (again, see Justin Herbert), they certainly were the surefire pick in their class. I could make the case for maybe 4 QBs to be the first one taken in the draft. As we progress through the offseason, maybe more are added to the list. But for now, I am left with the near impossible decision of ranking my top 5.
1. Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
In terms of draft stock growth through the year, Pickett probably achieved the most. His rise was Joe Burrow-esque, coming out of seemingly nowhere to the top of many expert’s draft boards. Pickett’s success didn’t come from huge additions and top level talent being added to the team. He showed massive improvement as the year progressed, specifically in the areas of decision making, pocket presence, and accuracy. He might be the most pro ready QB in this class, definitely worthy of the #1 slot.
Comp: Joe Burrow
2. Desmond Ridder, Cincinnati
Ridder was a projected late first round pick for me last year. This year, I expect more of the same, if not better. Watching him play gives me flashbacks to Jalen Hurts and even Lamar Jackson, but his size and arm talent certainly sets him apart. He very comfortable with the football, leading to only 4 multi-interception games in 4 years as a starter. Ultimately his success will come down to fit and teams’ willingness to adapt their play style to suit him best.
Comp: Dak Prescott
3. Carson Strong, Nevada
Although it is early in the process, Strong possesses a lot that you want out of a young QB prospect. The Air Raid offense does boost a lot of his stats, which a lot of guys knock him for. But the quality of the throws he makes are that of a high level QB in the NFL. It may be best for him to develop for a year or two behind a proven starter. The raw talent is some of the best there is in the 2022 QB class.
Comp: Pre-injury Carson Wentz
4. Malik Willis, Liberty
Willis is one of the most intriguing QBs in this class. Consistency will be the difference between him as a potential star in the NFL and a perennial back up. Willis has an ideal build with the arm talent to make every throw on the field he wants to. But his lack of willingness to take the check down or throw it away has gotten him into trouble. Ultimately, it is difficult to determine was the cause of his problems were at Liberty. Which is the job of many experts in scouting departments across the county to determine. Many eyes will be on him throughout the draft process to try and answer this question.
Comp: Jordan Love
5. Matt Corral, Ole Miss
Matt Corral is a jack of all trades, master of none. He did just enough in his junior season to keep the scouts interested, but the upside of the other QBs mentioned is tough to ignore. He slots in as a guy with a high floor and a proven record at the top level of college football, but likely without a ton of room to grow.
Comp: Baker Mayfield