There’s a new quarterback in the NFC South as the Carolina Panthers have acquired former top-overall pick Baker Mayfield in a trade that felt like it was a long time coming after the Browns welcomed Deshaun Watson to Cleveland.
Between Mayfield’s arrival in Carolina, additions and a notable subtraction in Atlanta, a change of heart in Tampa and the return of James Winston from injury in New Orleans, the division’s quarterback rooms are each intriguing in their own way, but how would you rank them?
Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
- Tom Brady
- Blaine Gabbert
- Kyle Trask
New Orleans Saints:
- Jameis Winston
- Andy Dalton
- Ian Book
Atlanta Falcons:
- Marcus Mariota
- Desmond Ridder
- Feleipe Franks
Carolina Panthers:
- Baker Mayfield
- Sam Darnold
- Matt Corral
*Teams listed by 2021 NFC South final standings
While Tom Brady lining up under center for the Bucs in week one against the Cowboys is a pretty safe bet along with Winston for the Saints barring any setbacks, quarterback battles are on the horizon for the Panthers and the hometown Falcons.
Atlanta jettisoned Matt Ryan to Indy after 14 seasons and brought in Mariota as the presumed starter, but with Ridder’s addition in the 3rd round of the NFL Draft, there’s a chance that the rookie could get the nod with a strong camp and preseason showing.
After Sam Darnold had an underwhelming first season in Carolina, the Panthers opted to bring in another retread from the 2018 draft in Mayfield. The two will be joined in their battle by rookie Matt Corral, who was taken in the 3rd round out of Ole Miss.
While Brady, back from his five-week retirement, is unquestionably the best quarterback in the league, there’s plenty of room to debate how the other three QB rooms rank behind Tampa. So, tell us what you think!