Trying to predict who will win the Browns QB competition seems to have a lot of emotional backing. Granted Watson (the big swing) has been a huge failure and an embarrassing reputational blotch on our team. While Sanders (SS) and Gabriel (DG) both played more than normally expected from QBs drafted after the first round neither provided a clear indication that they can be average NFL QBs. I was interested in looking at the four QBs in camp in an unemotional manner.
This is a key season as we now have significant talent across the offense and have maintained a superior defense. The goal needs to be a winning record and competitive for the divisional crown. To accomplish this we need at least average NFL quarterback play.
I decided that there are ten identifiable traits for a QB. I didn’t include leadership as it is hard to identify unless you are in the locker room or the sidelines. I believe that if you have a QB generally capable in the ten traits who is also a great leader he will be able to elevate the team. Conversely a poor leader will not be successful despite his traits. There are a variety of leadership styles and evaluation is impossible from my remote vantage point.
First trait: Experience which I graded DW-4, SS-2, DG-2, TG-1. All of the youngsters played extensively in college and two are past their rookie season. DW would be a 5 but for having played little over the past five seasons.
Second trait: Arm strength which I graded TG-4, the others all as 3s.
Third trait: Accuracy throwing long DG-2 and the others as 3s.
Forth trait: Accuracy throwing short DW & DG-4, SS-3 and TG-1
Fifth trait: Managing the pocket DG-4, DW-3, SS & TG - 2. In Houston DW took a lot of sacks, SS & TG have an annoying trait of retreating in the pocket.
Sixth trait: Escape and create out of the pocket DW & TG-4, SS-3, DG-2. I elevated TG as a projection due to his extreme athleticism which will severely stress a defense when he leaves the pocket. DW has a lesser ability to run but was very dangerous throwing in that situation in the past.
Seventh trait: Rushing either as a breakdown or as a play TG-4, DW-3, SS-2, DG-1
Eighth trait: Height DW-5, TG-4, SS-3, DG-1. Historically most modern great QBs are 6’-2” or taller. Secondly there has been a significantly lower percentage of successful QBs 6’-6” or taller. SS is slightly shorter than ideal. DG is significantly shorter.
Ninth trait: Ball security (fumbles) TG-1 the others are 3. TG’s long release leads to strip sacks and he often runs without tucking the ball.
Tenth trait: Ball security (interceptions) DG-4, DW-3, SS-2, TG-1 Past performance predicts future performance.
From my scoring DW has the superior traits that should better provide the opportunity to win games this year. Although there could be an argument that SS (or maybe DG or TG) would benefit from playing time to develop them as future franchise QB. I don’t think that we can stand another rebuilding season and the roster with the possible exception of QB is in good shape. Further wouldn’t it be a Browns’ karma to release DW and he pulls a Darnold type turn around for another team? Let’s see what he can do in his last season with us. Additionally it is possible but unlikely that a 3rd, 5th or 6th round QB is our future.