Josh Allen's Draft Class: Ranking The QBs
Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2018 NFL Draft class, a year that brought us some seriously talented quarterbacks. Of course, the headliner of this group is none other than Josh Allen. But how do his fellow QBs from that year stack up? We're going to break down the entire class, examining their careers to date, their strengths, weaknesses, and overall impact on their respective teams. Get ready for some hot takes and in-depth analysis!
The Quarterbacks of 2018: A Deep Dive
The 2018 NFL Draft was teeming with quarterback talent, each prospect possessing a unique blend of skills and potential. While Josh Allen has undeniably become a superstar, let's not forget the other signal-callers who entered the league that year. This wasn't just about Allen; it was about a whole cohort of players looking to make their mark. We saw guys with cannon arms, pinpoint accuracy, and the kind of leadership qualities that could turn a franchise around. For example, Baker Mayfield came in with a ton of hype, fresh off a Heisman Trophy win. Lamar Jackson, though some doubted him as a pure passer, possessed electric athleticism. Sam Darnold was the polished prospect with the prototypical build. And then there were the later-round guys, hoping to defy the odds and carve out a career. This draft class was like a box of chocolates – you never knew what you were going to get! It's fascinating to look back and see how these careers have unfolded, the twists and turns, the successes and the setbacks. Some have exceeded expectations, while others haven't quite lived up to the hype. What makes the 2018 class so compelling is the sheer diversity of skill sets and playing styles. You had pocket passers, dual-threat dynamos, and everything in between. This variety made for some fascinating comparisons and debates, both leading up to the draft and in the years that followed. Whether it's been leading their teams to the playoffs or battling through injuries, each quarterback's journey has been unique and captivating. The stories behind these players are what make the NFL so interesting, and the 2018 quarterback class has provided plenty of storylines to follow. Ultimately, evaluating a draft class isn't just about who becomes a Hall of Famer. It's about assessing the value that each player brought to their team, the impact they had on the game, and the legacy they leave behind. The 2018 quarterback class is still writing its story, and it's exciting to see what the future holds for these talented players.
Josh Allen: The Clear Standout
Okay, let's be real – Josh Allen is the undisputed king of this class. From his rocket arm to his surprising mobility, he's transformed the Buffalo Bills into a genuine Super Bowl contender. When you think about Josh Allen, you immediately think about his incredible arm strength. The guy can sling the ball a mile, making throws that most quarterbacks wouldn't even dream of attempting. But it's not just about raw power; Allen has also developed into a much more accurate passer over the years. He's worked tirelessly on his mechanics and decision-making, turning himself into a complete quarterback. And let's not forget about his running ability. Allen is a load to bring down in the open field, often lowering his shoulder and picking up crucial yards. This dual-threat ability makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Beyond his physical gifts, Allen possesses the kind of leadership qualities that you can't teach. He's a natural motivator, inspiring his teammates and rallying them in the face of adversity. You can see the passion and determination in his eyes every time he steps onto the field. The Bills Mafia has embraced Allen as their savior, and he's certainly lived up to the hype. He's brought a renewed sense of hope and excitement to Buffalo, a city that has waited a long time for a franchise quarterback. Of course, Allen's journey hasn't been without its challenges. He struggled with accuracy early in his career, leading some to question whether he could ever become a truly elite quarterback. But he never gave up, putting in the extra work to refine his skills. And now, he's reaping the rewards of his dedication. Allen's impact extends beyond the football field. He's become a beloved figure in the Buffalo community, known for his charitable work and his down-to-earth personality. He's a role model for young athletes, showing them that anything is possible with hard work and perseverance. As Allen continues to evolve and mature as a player, there's no telling what he might accomplish. He has the potential to become one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, and he's already well on his way to building a Hall of Fame resume. So, let's raise a glass to Josh Allen, the clear standout of the 2018 quarterback class. He's a true game-changer, and he's just getting started.
Baker Mayfield: A Rollercoaster Ride
Ah, Baker Mayfield. Talk about a rollercoaster! Drafted first overall, he initially brought a swagger and excitement to the Cleveland Browns that fans hadn't seen in decades. There was so much hype surrounding Baker Mayfield coming out of Oklahoma. He was the Heisman Trophy winner, the guy who could finally turn the Browns around. And for a while, it looked like he might actually do it. He led the Browns to their first playoff appearance in years, breaking a long and painful drought. Mayfield's confidence and playmaking ability were infectious, and the city of Cleveland fell in love with him. But things started to unravel after that initial success. Injuries, inconsistent play, and clashes with the coaching staff all contributed to Mayfield's downfall in Cleveland. The magic seemed to disappear, and the Browns eventually moved on. Mayfield's career since leaving Cleveland has been a mixed bag. He's had flashes of brilliance, but he hasn't been able to recapture the consistency and success he had early on. He's bounced around to a few different teams, trying to find the right fit. Despite the ups and downs, Mayfield still possesses the talent and potential to be a successful quarterback in the NFL. He has a strong arm, good accuracy, and the ability to make plays under pressure. But he needs to find the right system and the right coaches to help him unlock his full potential. It's easy to forget that Mayfield is still relatively young. He has plenty of time to turn his career around and prove that he can be a franchise quarterback. But he needs to stay healthy, stay focused, and continue to work hard on his craft. Whether he becomes a star or a solid backup, Mayfield's career will always be remembered for the excitement and hope he brought to Cleveland. He's a reminder that even the most highly touted prospects can face adversity and challenges in the NFL. And he's a testament to the resilience and determination it takes to keep fighting for your dreams.
Lamar Jackson: The Electric Playmaker
Lamar Jackson is a human highlight reel. His electrifying running ability and unique passing style made him an instant sensation in Baltimore. When you watch Lamar Jackson play, it's hard not to be amazed by his athleticism. He's like a video game character come to life, weaving through defenders and making seemingly impossible plays. His speed and agility are unmatched, and he has a knack for making defenders miss in the open field. But Jackson is more than just a runner. He's also a talented passer, with a strong arm and the ability to make accurate throws to all levels of the field. He's developed a unique passing style that takes advantage of his athleticism and allows him to make plays on the move. Jackson's impact on the Baltimore Ravens has been undeniable. He's transformed their offense into one of the most exciting and dynamic in the league. He's led them to multiple playoff appearances and has won an MVP award. He's a true game-changer who has redefined the quarterback position. Of course, Jackson's career hasn't been without its critics. Some have questioned his durability and his ability to stay healthy while running the ball so much. Others have doubted his accuracy as a passer and his ability to make throws from the pocket. But Jackson has consistently defied his doubters, proving that he's one of the most unique and talented players in the NFL. He's a true original who has inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams. Jackson's legacy is still being written, but he's already cemented his place as one of the most exciting and innovative quarterbacks of all time. He's a reminder that football is a game of creativity and improvisation, and that the best players are the ones who can find new and exciting ways to make plays. Whether he wins multiple Super Bowls or continues to break records, Jackson's impact on the game will be felt for years to come. He's a true icon who has changed the way we think about the quarterback position.
Sam Darnold: The Underachiever
Poor Sam Darnold. Once considered a can't-miss prospect, he's struggled to find his footing in the NFL, battling inconsistent play and unfortunate circumstances. Sam Darnold entered the league with immense potential, but he's faced numerous challenges that have hindered his development. From playing on struggling teams to dealing with injuries and inconsistent coaching, Darnold has had a tough road. His talent is undeniable – he possesses a strong arm, good mobility, and the ability to make plays under pressure. But he hasn't been able to put it all together consistently. Darnold's biggest issue has been his decision-making. He's prone to making costly turnovers, which have often put his team in difficult situations. He needs to improve his ability to read defenses and make smarter decisions with the ball. Despite his struggles, Darnold still has time to turn his career around. He needs to find the right system and the right coaches to help him unlock his full potential. He also needs to stay healthy and develop more consistency in his play. It's easy to write Darnold off as a bust, but he still possesses the raw talent that made him a top prospect. He needs to focus on improving his weaknesses and building on his strengths. Whether he becomes a star or a solid backup, Darnold's career will be a testament to the challenges and uncertainties of the NFL. He's a reminder that even the most talented players can struggle to find success, and that perseverance and hard work are essential for overcoming adversity.
The Rest of the Pack: Honorable Mentions
While Allen, Mayfield, Jackson, and Darnold grabbed most of the headlines, there were other quarterbacks drafted in 2018 who deserve a mention. Guys like Kyle Lauletta and Mike White, while not stars, have carved out careers as backups and spot starters. These guys represent the hard work and dedication it takes to make it in the NFL, even if you're not a top prospect. They've embraced their roles, learned from their mistakes, and continued to grind. They're a reminder that every player has a story, and that even the backups play an important role in the success of a team. These quarterbacks may not have reached the heights of Allen or Jackson, but they've still made their mark on the league. They've provided valuable depth, contributed to team success, and served as mentors to younger players. They're a testament to the importance of perseverance, resilience, and a positive attitude. And they deserve recognition for their contributions to the game.
Final Thoughts: A Quarterback Class for the Ages
The 2018 quarterback class is a fascinating study in player development, expectations, and the unpredictable nature of the NFL. While Josh Allen has emerged as the clear superstar, the other quarterbacks from that year have all had their own unique journeys. Whether they've achieved greatness, battled through adversity, or carved out careers as backups, each player has contributed to the rich tapestry of the NFL. This class will be remembered for its highs and lows, its triumphs and tribulations, and its lasting impact on the game. It's a reminder that success in the NFL is not guaranteed, and that even the most talented players can face challenges and setbacks. But it's also a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and a unwavering belief in oneself. The 2018 quarterback class is a story that is still being written, and it will be exciting to see what the future holds for these talented players.
