2022 NFL Quarterback Predictions: Kirk Cousins and Sam Howell Among Potential Moves
The quarterback carousel is spinning, and the 2022 NFL offseason could involve significant changes at the quarterback position for nearly a dozen teams. With the legal tampering period for free agency opening soon, it’s time to look ahead and predict what teams will do at quarterback.
Locked in, nothing to see here (15)
Safe, but with something to prove (3)
Young, unaccomplished, but safe (2)
Young, unaccomplished, but probably safe (1)
To be determined (2)
Open for business (9)
Notable options
Let’s run through the starting-caliber quarterbacks who could be available this offseason. In the NFL Draft, Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels, J.J. McCarthy, Michael Penix Jr., Bo Nix are potential options. In free agency, Kirk Cousins, Baker Mayfield, Gardner Minshew, Mason Rudolph, Ryan Tannehill, Russell Wilson, Jacoby Brissett, Joe Flacco, Tyrod Taylor, and Jimmy Garoppolo (after he’s released) could be on the market. There’s also the possibility of quarterbacks being available through trades, such as Justin Fields, Mac Jones, Zach Wilson, and Sam Howell.
Predictions
The table is set for at least nine teams to figure out their quarterback situation in the 2022 NFL season. Here are some predictions for how that might play out:
Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams
The Bears are expected to draft Caleb Williams as their clear-cut No. 1 prospect and build their team around him. Despite distractions surrounding Williams, the Bears have been searching for a franchise quarterback for decades and are willing to take a chance on his talent.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Baker Mayfield
If Baker Mayfield becomes a free agent, he could have a robust market, with the Buccaneers potentially being interested in him as the second-best option behind Cousins. The Buccaneers have no plans to rebuild and may choose to pay up before Mayfield hits free agency.
Atlanta Falcons: Kirk Cousins
The Falcons are believed to be interested in Kirk Cousins, as they see him as a player who can move them from a fringe playoff team to a contender. Head coach Raheem Morris and offensive coordinator Zac Robinson have familiarity with Cousins, making him an attractive option for Atlanta.
Minnesota Vikings: Sam Darnold and Zach Wilson
If the Vikings lose Cousins, their top target may be Baker Mayfield. However, if Mayfield doesn’t become a free agent, the Vikings might turn to a young option with upside. Sam Darnold, who has shown arm talent but hasn’t had much success as a starter, could be a possibility. Another option for the Vikings could be Zach Wilson, who still has the talent to be a high-end backup or potential starter in the right environment.
Denver Broncos: Sam Howell
After the Russell Wilson disaster, the Broncos find themselves in a tough spot. With limited cap flexibility and appeal for top free agents like Cousins, they may look to add a young quarterback through a trade. Sam Howell could be an interesting target for Denver, offering them a fresh start without the mess in Washington.
Washington Commanders: Drake Maye
Drake Maye could be a potential option for the Washington Commanders. While Jayden Daniels is also a possibility, Maye seems like a perfect quarterback for Washington to build around under their new regime.
Las Vegas Raiders: Jayden Daniels
The Raiders may be willing to trade up in the draft to get Jayden Daniels, who has a close relationship with Raiders coach Antonio Pierce. Daniels would bring excitement to Las Vegas and force opponents to defend him like Lamar Jackson.
New England Patriots: Jacoby Brissett and Bo Nix
If the Raiders trade up with the Patriots, New England might consider accumulating draft capital and building up their roster. Jacoby Brissett could sign on as a stopgap with the team that drafted him, giving the Patriots an opportunity to take a flier on a quarterback like Bo Nix in later rounds.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Kenny Pickett and Ryan Tannehill
The Steelers have expressed their desire to run it back with Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph. However, with the addition of offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, a marriage with Ryan Tannehill could make sense. Tannehill, although not the same player he once was, would provide competition for Pickett and potentially push him to become the Steelers’ preferred starter.
Seattle Seahawks: Geno Smith and Michael Penix Jr.
The Seahawks may bring back Geno Smith as their starting quarterback but could add some competition through the draft. Michael Penix Jr., who had an impressive career at the University of Washington, could be an exciting option for Seattle.
Conclusion
The 2022 NFL offseason promises to be an exciting one for quarterback moves. With several potential options available through the draft, free agency, and trades, teams will be looking to find their franchise quarterbacks and improve their chances of success in the upcoming season. Only time will tell which predictions come true, but one thing is for sure – there will be plenty of quarterback drama in the months to come.