Top 2023 Free Agent Quarterbacks
What You Expect is always here to provide you with details when it comes to an NFL-free agent, specifically quarterbacks. The quarterback position is the most important position on the field and the key to a successful season. We will take a deep dive into the players that will be looking to return home or explore a new team.
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The QB class of 2023 has a few redemption stories but has a few solid starters overall is a top-heavy class.
1 Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson wants a Deshaun Watson-level contract and I think Baltimore would make the biggest mistake not backing up the Brinks truck. Lamar has done so much without the help that other top-tier quarterbacks have.
There is always a stigma of ‘running quarterbacks’ getting injured but when you take into account that this game is a violent sport where players are always at risk, why not invest in your team's leader and catalyst on offense?
Prediction: Lamar was tagged but I believe the Ravens give Lamar the extension he is looking for.
2 Geno Smith
Smith had a breakout season in year 10 - surpassing even the loftiest of expectations. The majority of the public looked like Seattle was going to be a top-5 draft slot but ended up making the playoffs.
Geno was one of 4 QBs to throw for 4,000 yards and 30+ TDs - in the same breath as Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Josh Allen.
Prediction: At this point of his career I expect Geno to look at stability and with him finding success in Seattle I expect him to extend his stay in Seattle.
3 Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones earned a lot of respect in his first year with coach Brian Daboll. Giants earned a wild card birth with an offensive cast led by running back Saquon Barkley, and wide receivers Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins. While Slayton and Hodgins performed admirably no one outside optimistic fans expected this team to make the playoffs.
Jones’ development as a runner and his improved decision-making may have just turned the trajectory of his career.
Prediction: The Giants found success with a new coaching staff and Jones performed well - Giants commit long term.
4 Jimmy Garoppolo
Jimmy G, one of the average quarterbacks, entered the season as a backup to QB Trey Lance. When called upon he played well within the 49ers system and with recent comments from coach Kyle Shanahan all but confirming there will be no attempt to retain him.
Garoppolo has shown he is more than capable as a starter and will be looking to join a team he can call his own.
Prediction: Jimmy G will be a New York Jet joining former 49er coach Robert Saleh. The Jets were a QB away from rallying to make the playoffs.
5 Jacoby Brissett
Brissett was the starter for the first 12 games of the season for the Browns and has proven to be a game manager.
Prediction: The Raiders are projected to get a shot at Florida QB Anthony Richardson - Brissett would get the opportunity to start while allowing the Raiders to develop Richardson.
6 Mike White
Mike White became a fan favorite once taking the reins from Zach Wilson. He showed flashes and the willingness to take the shot downfield.
Prediction: Mike White will suit up for the Washington Commanders and joins the QB battle with Sam Howell.
7 Baker Mayfield
Baker was a part of 3 franchises this season and made the most out of his Rams stint. Baker is a former number-one overall pick who will more than likely earn another shot.
Prediction: Baker signs with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Tom Brady retired and the Bucs will want to bring in some veteran arms to battle it out for the top spot.
8 Gardner Minshew
Gardner Minshew had an opportunity to show his growth when Jalen Hurts went down but ended up showing he is a solid guy as a backup but not capable of being your long-term starter.
Prediction: Minshew signs with the San Francisco 49ers and backs up Trey Lance.
9 Sam Darnold
Sam Darnold had some solid games in relief - there will be interest in picking him up and giving him the #2 job.
Prediction: Darnold stays in Carolina and may be the fill-in in case the Panthers think one of the rookies they draft at quarterback is not ready.