The 2023 Quarterback Draft Class: A Tale of Non-Linear Development
The 2023 quarterback draft class has now had nearly two full NFL seasons, and yet, they still bring more intrigue than certainty as to who they will become in the league. The group, which includes Texans’ C.J. Stroud, Panthers’ Bryce Young, Colts’ Anthony Richardson, and Titans’ Will Levis, has faced varying levels of success and struggles.
Stroud, last year’s Offensive Rookie of the Year, put together an impressive rookie season, but this year, all the talk has been about regression. Young and Richardson, both of whom were benched earlier this season, have shown steady improvement since being reinserted as QB1. Levis, who has been one of the league’s most efficient quarterbacks since returning from a three-game shoulder injury, has similarly shown growth.
As the varying experiences of these top four quarterbacks demonstrate, the development of young passers can be non-linear. Consistency in practice and learning from mistakes are key, according to Titans coach Brian Callahan.
So, why has Stroud struggled this season? Why have Young, Richardson, and Levis made strides? Here’s a snapshot of where each quarterback stands with five weeks left in the regular season:
C.J. Stroud
* Last season: 63.9% completion rate, 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, 5 interceptions, 100.8 passer rating, 46.7% passing success rate
* This season: 63.3% completion rate, 3,117 yards, 15 touchdowns, 9 interceptions, 87.9 passer rating, 42.9% passing success rate
* Why the dip: Defenses are playing him differently, with a focus on Cover 2, and he’s seeing less base defense. Injuries to key Texans players, including wide receiver Stefon Diggs, have also affected his performance. The offensive line, which has been one of the worst in the NFL this season, has also been a factor.
Bryce Young
* First two games of the season: 55.5% completion rate, 245 yards, 0 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, 44.1 passer rating
* Past five games: 60.3% completion rate, 1,082 yards, 6 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, 83.5 passer rating
* Why the improvement: Young has become more comfortable in Dave Canales’ system, with a focus on his decisiveness and play in critical situations. His numbers have improved dramatically on third down and in the red zone.
Anthony Richardson
* First six games this season: 44.3% completion rate, 958 yards, 4 touchdowns, 7 interceptions, 57.2 passer rating; 41 carries for 242 yards and a touchdown
* Past three games: 52.4% completion rate, 553 yards, 3 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 75.9 passer rating; 29 carries for 141 yards and 3 touchdowns
* Why the improvement: Richardson is still struggling to find consistency as a passer, but the Colts are willing to lean into his rushing ability, which has resulted in three rushing touchdowns in the past three games.
Will Levis
* First five games this season: 66.4% completion rate, 699 yards, 5 touchdowns, 7 interceptions, 70.7 passer rating; 3 lost fumbles
* Past four games: 61.7% completion rate, 960 yards, 7 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 101.4 passer rating; 1 lost fumble
* Why the improvement: Levis has rediscovered his ability to throw the deep ball, which had been a strength of his in college and last year. His confidence has grown, and he’s shown improved decision-making, with a 101.4 passer rating over the past four games.
