The Top 5 NFL free agents at the QB position
Mar 1, 2023, 7:00 AM
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - DECEMBER 04: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens watches the game against the Denver Broncos at M&T Bank Stadium on December 04, 2022 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
(Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
Entering the month of March means a new league year for the NFL is upon us, starting with NFL free agency on March 15th.
Among the biggest fish to enter the market this year are the quarterbacks, a variety of experienced to risk we haven’t seen in a few seasons. Headlined by the pursuit of Lamar Jackson & Aaron Rodgers, there are several NFL franchises eager to find their next QB of the future, whether that be through the draft or in free agency.
While the NFL Combine is getting started this week, let’s take a look at a few options that playoff-ready teams should be waiting for.
1. Lamar Jackson
Previous Team: Baltimore Ravens
Previous Contract: 4-years, $ 9.4 million (Rookie Deal)
While technically not a free agent, the future of Lamar Jackson could be the first domino to fall in the QB carrousel this spring.
Jackson has been in stronghold of negations with the Ravens’ front office for a full year, looking for a full guaranteed deal similar to Deshaun Watson received with the Cleveland Browns. Baltimore has offered substantial money (reportedly turning down a five-year, $250 million deal with $133 million guaranteed) but the two sides haven’t been able to find an agreement.
Now the Ravens have a decision to make with the franchise tag: Non-exclusive or exclusive. Which way they go will indicate the team’s willingness to deal Jackson. If it’s the former option, Jackson can be had for two first-round picks, able to negotiate a deal with any other franchise. If it’s the former, Lamar is likely staying in Baltimore.
Jackson, 26, has been as electric as advertised since joining the league in 2018, winning league MVP in 2019. The Louisville alum has accumulated 16,646 yards from scrimmage, 125 total TDs, and holds a 45-16 record in his career.
2. Derek Carr
Previous Team: Las Vegas Raiders
Previous Contract: 3-years, $121.5 million
After nine years with the Raiders, Derek Carr is officially a free agent for the first time.
The long-time Raiders signal caller was released from his contract last month, and has already been taking visits with teams entering free agency. Carr will also be in attendance at the NFL Combine, speaking with various organizations. Looking for $35 million annually, Carr’s services are expected to be in demand this spring.
Derek Carr finished his Raiders’ career with a 63-79 record as a starter. He has threw for 35,222 passing yards, 217 TDs and 99 INTs in nine seasons, making the Pro Bowl four times. His biggest achievement occurred in 2021, taking the Raiders to the playoffs for the first time since 2016.
3. Geno Smith
Previous Team: Seattle Seahawks
Previous Contract: 1-year, $3.5 million
The AP Comeback Player of the Year, Geno Smith, is on the market.
Smith had his best season as a pro in 2022, helping a rebuilding Seahawks’ team to a 9-8 record. The West Virginia alum finished with 4,282 passing yards, 30 TDs and 11 INTs, making his Pro Bowl roster last season. Now entering age 33, Smith will be looking to get paid handsomely this offseason.
Both Seattle and Smith’s camps have shown interest in a reunion, likely meaning he’ll stick around in the NFC West awhile longer.
4. Jimmy Garoppolo
Previous Team: San Francisco 49ers
Previous Contract: 1-year, $7 million
Another steady QB for any franchise, Jimmy Garoppolo.
Jimmy G had an usual 2022 season to say the least, going from almost getting traded to taking over for Trey Lance in Week 2 to a season-ending foot fracture in Week 13. A wild ride indeed for Garoppolo, who will officially part ways with San Francisco after six seasons in The Bay.
Garoppolo, 31, finished his 49ers’ career with a 38-17 record. He threw for 13,599 passing yards, 87 TDs and 43 INTs. His best achievement is leading the Red & Gold to Super Bowl LIV.
5. Daniel Jones
Previous Team: New York Giants
Previous Contract: 4-years, $25.66 million (Rookie Deal)
A candidate for most improved in 2022, Daniel Jones & the New York Giants were the feel-good story of the season. Jones especially, using his unique blend of athleticism and arm talent to become a dual-threat QB in 2022.
Jones lead the Giants to a 9-6-1 record, losing in the Wildcard round of the playoffs to the Philadelphia Eagles. The 25-year-old threw for 3205 passing yards, 15 TDs and five INTs. He also added 708 yards & seven TDs with his legs.
Entering free agent after his fifth-year option was declined, Jones is looking to cash in for a massive extension. It could take some negotiating, but expect sides to remain together long-term.
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