Dynasty Rookies: QBs
Bradford, Tebow, Clausen, McCoy. We heard more about these players during the NFL Draft process than all others because, well, quarterbacks are the rock stars. For fantasy owners, nobody here will be considered more than a backup singer for some time. In at least one case, today's promise will likely be the high water mark of their pro career. Factoring in the questions that surround each player and the rather bleak fantasy outlook for the near future, tread lightly when drafting from this group.
QB Sam Bradford, ---
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Based on the investment the Rams have made in him, Bradford will have the most rope with which to succeed amongst the top passers drafted this year. A.J. Feeley is expected to challenge for the starting role, but even if he gets it he will be as stopgap and a 3-5 week run at that. Bradford's accuracy at Oklahoma was off the charts and at this point the NFC West does not house anything close to a top-tier defense for him to fear. For now Bradford does not have a lot of weapons to work with and Steven Jackson will not last forever, but the rebuilding Rams drafted a star left tackle and should continue to add pieces so there is more hope long term.
QB Jimmy Clausen, ---
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The best bet to have a positive impact this year and next is the former Golden Domer. Not only does Clausen not have to deal with the pressures that go along with being a first round pick, but he comes to a team with a stellar ground game, a stud receiver and a stout offensive line. If Matt Moore does not grab the starting job by the throat, Clausen has a chance to be this year's Joe Flacco or Mark Sanchez as a QB caretaker, but the skill set to be a long-term fantasy notable.
TE Tim Tebow, ---
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For any rookie QB, I think the wise course of action is to sit them on the sideline for at least one full season. In the case of Tebow, who has much in the way of adjustments to make, that should be the case regardless. I'm with those that question his style in a pro offense, but at some point the Broncos are going to give him a shot. As I mentioned in my recent AFC West blog post, considering it is in his football DNA to be a runner, I think it's reasonable to assume that Tebow could augment his potential so-so passing stats with yards and scores on the ground.
QB Colt McCoy, ---
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The former Longhorn star landed in a good spot because the Browns do not have much in the way of a QB for the short or long term. Jake Delhomme is a short term option that might not see the second half of the season (let alone a second season) if he plays like he did last year with the Panthers. Also, having a QB guru like Mike Holmgren overseeing everything should provide McCoy with plenty of guidance and direction even if he is not actually on the coaching staff. McCoy is the least attractive of the most talked about rookie QBs, but he will be given a chance to compete as soon as the 2011 season.
QB John Skelton, ---
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I for one have not given up on Matt Leinart, if for no other reason than having believed so heavily in him when he first arrived on the scene. Suffice it to say, his actual on the field play lately has not been terribly impressive, albeit in limited looks. If he ultimately does not show he has the staying power to remain a starter, Skelton likely gets the next crack. The Cards' fifth round pick will need time to adjust from 1-AA Fordham to the NFL, but the 6-5 gunslinger has a major league arm and you would have to think he can throw for a few scores as long as Larry Fitzgerald is on the roster.
