The 2024 NFL Draft is expected to bring some intriguing changes to the league, particularly for the Chicago Bears who hold the first overall pick. The NFL Quarterbacks carousel is already anticipating potential surprises this offseason.
Will the Bears retain Justin Fields and use the pick for a different position, or will they be unable to resist USC quarterback Caleb Williams’ talent? This choice may initiate a series of quarterback transactions.
In 2023, Aaron Rodgers was traded from Green Bay to the New York Jets. Other veteran quarterbacks such as Kirk Cousins and Russell Wilson may also be on the move, while a talented rookie class featuring Heisman Trophy winners Williams and Jayden Daniels, as well as Drake Maye and J.J. McCarthy, is emerging.
In 2023, a grand total of 66 quarterbacks were the starting players in an NFL game, demonstrating the significance of having multiple options on the roster.
Who begins where? Sporting News is evaluating the quarterback situation for each of the 32 teams as we near 2024.
2024 NFL Starting Quarterbacks Schedule
Cardinals of Arizona
Who began the previous year? Kyler Murray made a comeback from an ACL injury suffered in week 14 of the 2022 regular season, following a 1-8 record by Joshua Dobbs and Clayton Tune. Murray guided the Cardinals to a 3-5 record, throwing for 1,799 yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions. He also ran for 244 yards and three touchdowns.
Who will begin in 2024? Murray will commence. He agreed to a 230-year, five-year deal in 2023, mirroring new head coach Jonathan Gannon. The Cardinals now must locate a legitimate number one receiver – and this opportunity may be open with the fourth pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Greetings, Marvin Harrison Jr.
Selection: Kyler Murray (Confidence level: 10/10)
Atlanta Falcons
Who was the starting quarterback in the previous year? The Falcons ended with a record of 7-10 for the third year in a row, resulting in the firing of coach Arthur Smith. Desmond Ridder played in 13 games last season, throwing for 2,836 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. However, Ridder was benched twice and did not return to the field. Taylor Heinicke also started four games. The new head coach Raheem Morris and offensive coordinator Zac Robinson have multiple choices with the eighth overall pick.
Who will be the starting quarterback in 2024? The Falcons have had three different starters, Matt Ryan, Marcus Mariota, and Ridder, in the past three seasons. With a new coaching staff, there is a chance to either select a quarterback in the draft – which may involve a trade – or acquire one through a trade. Here, Morris may rely on a veteran. The Falcons are bringing in Kirk Cousins, which could potentially affect the development of young players on the team in Atlanta.
Baltimore Ravens
Who initiated this year? In May of 2023, he inked a five-year, $260 million deal and subsequently earned his second NFL MVP award. Jackson recorded 3,678 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, while also rushing for 821 yards and five touchdowns. The Ravens made it to the AFC Championship game, but ultimately fell to Kansas City 17-7.
Who will be the starting quarterback in 2024? Jackson played in all 16 games for the first time since 2018. John Harbaugh is entering his 17th season as head coach. The expectations to make it to the Super Bowl will rise in 2024. Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley will become a free agent.
