Before free agency, DNA of Sports offers you its traditional Top 5 free agents who will be available at each position on March 13. Start of the overview with the quarterback position.
The centerpiece of an NFL team, the quarterback position is the most sought after by any franchise and few quarterbacks reach the free agency. But 2024 changes things a bit with one of the best quarterbacks in the league.
1 – Kirk Cousins – 35 years old
2023 stats: 8 games played, 2,331 yards thrown, 18 touchdowns, 5 interceptions
Despite his 35 years and an injury in 2023, Kirk Cousins will be the big fish of this free agency. On record highs in 2023 before his injury, Cousins was one of the most reliable quarterbacks this season.
Mature in his game and efficient, if his medical assessments are correct, Kirk Cousins will find a base without problem for the 2024 season.
The ideal destination: Atlanta Falcons
It's the hot rumor of the moment: Kirk Cousins and the Falcons are reportedly flirting. A logical relationship on paper. In Atlanta, Cousins could benefit from a better offensive line than in Minnesota. In addition, Kirk Cousins could finally allow the Falcons to exploit the potential of players like Kyle Pitts, Drake London and Bijan Robinson. Protection, weapons and a viable division to go to the playoffs, Atlanta and Cousins seem made for each other.
2 – Baker Mayfield – 29 years old
2023 stats: 17 games played, 4,044 yards thrown, 28 touchdowns, 10 interceptions
Former number 1 in the Draft, Mayfield never really broke through, to the point of being let go by the Browns then ending up with the Buccaneers in 2023. A year which allowed the quarterback to revive his rating. Author of a decent season, Mayfield took advantage of Dave Canales' game plan to progress.
Capable of making some spectacular plays and a true leader by example, it is certain that Baker Mayfield will have his place in a squad in 2024.
The ideal destination: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The loss of offensive coordinator Dave Canales could affect Mayfield's desire to return to Tampa Bay in 2024. But the Florida franchise remains a meaningful destination. For Mayfield, it was the assurance of starting again in a familiar setting that gave him a second chance. For the Buccanners, without a high draft pick, without a big salary opportunity and with an “experienced” group, Tampa won't really have a better solution than Mayfield.
3 – Gardner Minshew – 28 years old
2023 stats: 17 games played, 3,305 yards thrown, 15 touchdowns, 9 interceptions
Having started almost the entire season for the Colts following the injury to Anthony Richardson, Gardner Minshew was not unworthy. Motivated and combative, the quarterback was able to count on Shane Steichen's schemes to give his all and almost lead the Colts into the playoffs.
Of course it is a “plan B”. Minshew is too limited, with poor footwork in the pocket and poor reading skills. But his qualities should allow him to obtain a position without worries in 2024.
The ideal destination: Minnesota Vikings or Pittsburgh Steelers
Hypothesis #1: The Vikings fail to keep Kirk Cousins. With the No. 11 pick in the Draft, a rookie quarterback ready to replace him from Day 1 seems unlikely. Minnesota could then be tempted by Minshew to be in the center while waiting for the real replacement. Under the orders of Kevin O'Connell and with good targets at his disposal, Minshew will not find much better opportunity.
Hypothesis #2: Minnesota kept Kirk Cousins. Minshew then decided to try his luck in Pittsburgh. His goal ? Put pressure on young Kenny Pickett to take his place.
4 – Ryan Tannehill – 36 years old
2023 stats: 10 games played, 1616 yards thrown, 4 touchdowns, 7 interceptions
Troubled by injuries for several seasons and benched for rookie Will Levis, Ryan Tannehill is certainly at the end of his career. Nevertheless, the pitcher could still be effective behind a good offensive line and in a system with a lot of play action.
Tannehill should mostly be recruited as a backup or potential quarterback playing a few games before a rookie is ready.
The ideal destination: Cleveland Browns
With a quarterback who has made a habit of missing several games during the season, Cleveland must have a solid 2nd quarterback. The idea is to not have to call on Joe Flacco again when he gets off the couch. Under the leadership of Stefanski and behind a good offensive line, Tannehill could do the trick in a few games.
5 – Jacoby Brissett – 31 years old
2023 stats: 3 games played, 224 yards, 3 touchdowns
The ideal backup quarterback! Praised everywhere for his professionalism, Brissett is a player that any franchise should target to be on their bench.
Sure, his play isn't anything spectacular and it won't make the team win, but he won't make your team lose either. And that’s all we ask of a backup quarterback. Capable of effectively replacing an injured top quarterback, but also capable of holding the ball until a rookie is ready…
The ideal destination: New York Jets
Avoiding the drama of 2023 by having a decent quarterback on the bench, that's the challenge for the Jets during this free agency.
Other names to follow: Carson Wentz, Jameis Winston, Joe Flacco, Tyrod Taylor, Drew Lock…
