NFL Power Rankings: Ranking all starting QBs as training camp approaches

Bryce Young had an inconsistent 2024 NFL season, performing well late but struggling overall, leaving him viewed as more of a 'bad' quarterback and still an unknown in the league. His third year with the Carolina Panthers is considered crucial. The team's roster is seen as improved, bolstered by the selection of wide receiver Tet McMillan in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Young has significant offensive support to succeed, including two 1,000-yard rushers, Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle. This strong running game could allow the Panthers to utilize play-action effectively, potentially simplifying the passing game and making things easier for Young.

The article emphasizes that if Young fails to demonstrate significant improvement in this third season, the Panthers would have little reason to continue building around him, the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Sam Darnold, ranked 23rd in the quarterback power rankings, had a breakout 2024 season with the Minnesota Vikings, helping them win 14 games. His performance was so strong that the Vikings opted not to re-sign him in free agency.

However, Darnold now faces a significantly less favorable situation with the Seattle Seahawks compared to the near-perfect setup he had in Minnesota. Replicating his 2024 success is expected to be difficult, though not impossible. He enters the season ranked 23rd among quarterbacks.