2017 Chargers Analysis: Quarterbacks

We all know that the quarterback room next year will be led by none other than Philip Rivers. Currently ranking 12th on the all-time yardage mark, he’s within 4000 yards of 7th place. He sits at 8th in TD passes, 28 away from 6th. In passer rating, he ranks 8th over his career and is only 55th in INTs thrown. In terms of pure statistics, Philip Rivers looks like one of the best to ever play the game. Unfortunately, due to the incompetent ownership of the Chargers, his prime years have been wasted on mediocre rosters and bland coaches. Even so, he is just as capable as any of the other elite quarterbacks in the league to lead his team to the promised land. One year off leading the league in interceptions with 21, look for him to regain form with the return of Keenan Allen, Stevie Johnson, and his current targets. As good as Tyrell Williams appeared, many of Rivers’ picks this year came off of drops and misses off of Tyrell Williams. Without all the pressure on a young player (Tyrell Williams) to succeed as the team’s #1 WR, Philip Rivers will be put in a better position to play more efficiently.

Philip Rivers looks to have between 2-3 years left based on what he says during interviews and the general quality of his play. He will more than likely be a hall of fame quarterback in about 10 years time based solely on his statistics.

Kellen Clemens signed a one-year contract to cover the 2016 season and is currently not under contract for 2017, and at 33 years old, there is little chance that the Chargers will want to bring him back.

The Chargers will most likely look either into free agency or the draft. Currently, the best players on the free agent market include Kirk Cousin, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Case Keenum, Matt Barkley, and Landry Jones. Out of those choices, I would go for someone like Landry Jones or Matt Barkley (despite his U$C lineage) Go Bruins. Both are young, coming off of their rookie contracts, and both have had a few games to play. Matt Barkley had a strong college career until he decided he had “unfinished business” and was delivered this hit by Anthony Barr (now of the Vikings) which separated his shoulder and dropped his draft projection, to where he was drafted with the 1st pick of the 4th round.

I far prefer Landry Jones, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the Steelers re-sign him to eventually take over for Ben Rapelisberger... I’m sorry, Roethlisberger when he eventually gets hurt or retires.

As far as quarterbacks in the draft go, Pat Mahomes could be a great pick. Projected to go between rounds 2-4 (and yes, QB is a huge need this draft). He has all the intangibles and size you look for in a prototypical starting QB, but coming from Texas Tech’s Air Raid offense, it will be a struggle, and a slow process to convert him into a starting caliber quarterback. He reminds me a bit of Johnny Manziel with his abilities at extending the play, without the off the field concerns, and he has an absolute cannon. This season, he threw for 5052 yards and accounted for 53 touchdowns. He passed for 41 and rushed for 12. He has incredible arm talent and will need a few years to sit and learn NFL style offenses, and who better to sit and learn behind than Philip Rivers. Wilton Speight, at 6’6 and 243 lbs could be an intriguing prospect as well but only has one full season as a starter under his belt.

Tell us in the comments what you think about the 2017 Chargers Quarterback room!