Another week down, another week to evaluate the performances of the three rookie starting quarterbacks in the league. We once again saw a mixed bag from all three rookies, but also saw some flashes.
Let’s take a look at each rookie and rank their Week 2 performances from best to worst:
1. CJ Stroud, QB, Houston Texans
In CJ Stroud’s second performance of the year we saw everything that made the rookie great during his time at Ohio State. With a quarterback rating of 103.5 and 380 yards in the air, Stroud looked every bit the efficient passer we saw as a Buckeye. Stroud looked calm, collected, and like he was able to diagnose what was in front of him to deliver an accurate ball consistently through the day. Though the Texans ultimately lost the game, it’s hard to place much blame on the shoulders of this rookie signal caller.
2. Anthony Richardson, QB, Indianapolis Colts
We only got to see Colts’ rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson for a small portion of their win against the Texans last week before he was ultimately ruled out with injury. What we did see of Richardson remained consistent with what he showed off in week one. With a rocket arm, and perhaps the most electric running ability in the league at the position, Richardson was able to notch two rushing touchdowns and looked solid throwing the football as well. Richardson should be back this week, and will look to take over the game once again.
3. Bryce Young, QB, Carolina Panthers
The number one overall pick once again finds himself at the bottom of this list for the second week in a row. While it is hard to fully put the blame on the shoulders of Young given his two starting guard are out and none of his receivers seem to be able to separate, it does ultimately become the quarterbacks responsibility to create offense. Young made some solid throws especially towards the end of the game, which does alleviate some anxiety about his future, but eventually this Carolina offense will need to start scoring some points.
