Ranking the top 3 young quarterbacks in the NFL
By Luke Drage
3. Marcus Mariota
Leaving Dak Prescott out of the top three may not be the popular move but Mariota is a better pure quarterback. He may not have the charisma and likability of the Cowboys QB, but he is every bit the player.
The Heisman winner is unassuming but has put together an outstanding start to his career in Tennessee. He has made the Titans relevant again and should make the playoffs in 2017.
The number two pick from 2015 has become an excellent pocket passer in Mike Mularkey’s offense whilst retaining his lethal running threat. Mariota’s athletic ability outside the pocket make him hard to contain and defend.
He is excelling in a system that isn’t necessarily suited to his game. This makes his progression as a passer all the more impressive. His 2016 season saw him pass for 3426 yards with a td to interception ratio of 26 to 9.
In a run first offense, Mariota’s numbers are excellent. He has been accurate and has shown a willingness to adapt his game. His injury came at a bad time for Tennessee and he will hope to pick back up where he left off.
The 24-year-old has already score three rushing touchdowns in four games this season. His vision and decision-making in this regard make him one of the most dangerous red zone quarterbacks in the league.
Mariota’s physical tools and hard-working attitude will only see him improve more as he becomes more comfortable in the league and grows into his roll as a leader. He doesn’t quite have the ceiling of a Wentz or Watson but he makes very few glaring errors.
He can make all the throws required of him and some on the run that very few players can make.
His speed is also elite and separates him from almost every quarterback in the NFL. In the open field he can scorch teams for huge yardage.
He displayed his top end speed in his rookie year, burning the Jags for an 87-yard touchdown run in week 13.
As long as Mariota is healthy and firing, the Titans will be viable in the AFC.