.png){kind=small}
When evaluating the potential of second-year QBs in the NFL, it's crucial to understand the surrounding cast and overall situation. At Football Scout 365, we emphasize how the supporting cast and coaching staff can influence a player's ceiling potential. In 2024, we have four quarterbacks from the 2023 NFL Draft class who will enter the season with high expectations.
Today's analysis will provide each of the top year-two QBs' 2024 stat projections and their 2024 fantasy football projections. Additionally, I will summarize each player's rookie season and discuss their 2024 expectations.
*Note: Fantasy projections use 6 points per passing TD format.
➡️ C.J. Stroud, Houston Texans (QB6)
2024 Fantasy Football Points Projection: 370
Summary Analysis: C.J. Stroud had an impressive rookie season, achieving a passer rating of 100.8 with 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions in 15 games. He earned a Pro Bowl selection and the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, returning to Houston after offseason head-coaching interviews, recognizes the importance of Stroud's second year. Stroud, Slowik, and head coach DeMeco Ryans will refine the offense to suit Stroud’s strengths. As Stroud gains more experience, he will have greater input in play-calling and responsibilities at the line of scrimmage. Building on last season's success, Stroud aims to elevate the system and his teammates further.
C.J. Stroud 2024 Stats Projections:
Passing Yards: 4,500
Passing TDs: 27
Interceptions: 9
Rushing Yards: 200
Rushing TDs: 3
➡️ Anthony Richardson, Indianapolis Colts (QB18)
2024 Fantasy Football Points Projection: 319
Summary Analysis: Anthony Richardson had a promising yet brief rookie season with the Colts, posting a passer rating of 87.3, 577 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception in 4 games. Despite his limited experience, Richardson showed remarkable composure, particularly in a game against the playoff-bound Rams where he led a comeback from a 23-point deficit, displaying his athleticism and playmaking ability. Colts offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter and head coach Shane Steichen praised Richardson's improvisational skills and resilience. Unfortunately, his season was cut short due to a shoulder injury, but Richardson is now returning, ready to build on his initial success with the support of a creative coaching staff.
Anthony Richardson 2024 Stats Projections:
Passing Yards: 3,575
Passing TDs: 17
Interceptions: 13
Rushing Yards: 500
Rushing TDs: 6
➡️ Will Levis, Tennessee Titans (QB24)
2024 Fantasy Football Points Projection: 296
Summary Analysis: Will Levis had a mixed rookie season with the Tennessee Titans, starting strong with a four-touchdown debut but struggling with consistency, ending with eight touchdowns, four interceptions, and a 9.9% sack rate. The Titans' weak offensive line and limited pass-catching options contributed to his challenges. In 2024, with a new aggressive offensive approach led by head coach Brian Callahan and key additions like center Lloyd Cushenberry, running back Tony Pollard, and wide receivers Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd, Levis is poised for improvement. The upgraded roster aims to give Levis a better-supporting cast, potentially elevating his performance.
Will Levis 2024 Stats Projections:
Passing Yards: 3,650
Passing TDs: 20
Interceptions: 10
Rushing Yards: 200
Rushing TDs: 3
➡️ Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers (QB28)
2024 Fantasy Football Points Projection: 254
Summary Analysis: Former Alabama quarterback Bryce Young had a challenging rookie season with the Carolina Panthers, finishing with a 2-15 record. Despite being the first overall pick in 2023, his performance was overshadowed by C.J. Stroud, who won the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. Young had a passer rating of 73.7, with 2,877 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 16 games. With the arrival of head coach Dave Canales, Young feels he is growing into a leadership role. Having endured a tough first year, Young now has a dependable coach to guide him. The Panthers also added much-needed skill player talent by adding WR Diontae Johnson in the offseason and then drafting a three-down versatile RB in Jonathon Brooks, an elite after-the-catch WR out of South Carolina in Xavier Legette, and then they added an athletic TE in Ja'Tavion Sanders. The Panthers appear to be on the right track.
Bryce Young 2024 Stats Projections:
Passing Yards: 3,100
Passing TDs: 17
Interceptions: 10
Rushing Yards: 250
Rushing TDs: 2