NFL Futures: Rookie Quarterbacks Debuts

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Rookie QB Faces Mixed Results in NFL Week 1 Debut

In week 1 of the NFL season, they introduced fans to the first starts for rookie quarterbacks Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, and Bo Nix. While their performances varied, each faced the challenges of transitioning to the professional level. 

Only Caleb Williams left the weekend with a win, but none of the three rookies threw for a touchdown. Here’s a breakdown of their performances and how they fared in their debuts.

Caleb Williams Struggles But Gets the Win

Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall pick, led the Chicago Bears to a 24-17 victory over the Tennessee Titans despite a demanding performance. Williams completed 93 passing yards, with no passes longer than 13 yards. While his scrambling ability at USC, where he found the end zone 27 times with his legs, was a highlight, it didn’t translate well in Week 1. He managed only 15 yards on five rushes.

Despite his struggles, the Bears overcame a 14-point deficit thanks to key plays on special teams and a defense that forced two Will Levis interceptions. This marked the first time a No. 1 pick won in Week 1 of his rookie year since 2001. In terms of advanced metrics, Williams posted a -0.39 EPA per dropback, ranking 36th among 39 rookie quarterbacks since 2001, and a passer rating of 55.7, ranking 30th in that sample.

Bo Nix’s Tough Debut in Denver

Bo Nix, making his first start for the Denver Broncos, couldn’t live up to expectations in a 26-20 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Nix struggled to move the ball downfield, totaling 138 yards on 42 attempts, with most completions coming within a few yards of the line of scrimmage. It took Nix 34 attempts to surpass the 100-yard mark.

As the Broncos trailed, Nix was relied on more heavily, but their third-quarter drives resulted in just one first down. A crucial mistake came when Nix threw an interception late in the game while the Broncos were driving, which sealed their fate. 

Despite a rushing touchdown to cut the deficit, it was too late. Nix’s metrics reflect his struggles, with a -0.40 EPA per dropback, ranking 38th among rookie quarterbacks in Week 1, and a passer rating of 47.5, ranking 35th.

Jayden Daniels Shows Promise Despite Loss

Jayden Daniels, the No. 2 pick, had the most statistically successful debut of the three rookie quarterbacks, though his Washington Commanders fell 37-20 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Daniels showcased his dual-threat ability, rushing for 88 yards and two touchdowns while throwing for 184 yards.

Daniels scored both touchdowns on quarterback keepers from the goal line, and he completed over 70% of his passes without turning the ball over, finishing with a passer rating of 93.1, the highest among rookie quarterbacks. His advanced metrics were also promising, with a 0.14 EPA per dropback, the sixth-best in this study of Week 1 rookie performances, and his passer rating ranked 11th.

These rookies ‘ performances will play a significant role in shaping NFL futures for their respective teams. Caleb Williams’ leadership, Bo Nix’s potential for improvement, and Jayden Daniels’ dynamic playmaking could influence their teams’ long-term success, making them key players to watch.