Ranking the top-10 draft-eligible quarterbacks
Using rankings done by Phil Steele, a blurry view of the 2022 NFL Draft quarterback class becomes crystal clear. A mix of Heisman contenders and underrated talents populate his top-10 draft-eligible quarterbacks.
Here are the top-10 draft-eligible quarterbacks, according to Phil Steele:
10. Matt Corral, Mississippi: Mississippi’s signal-caller put up gaudy numbers against some of the best in the SEC. He threw for 760 yards and 5 touchdowns combined against Florida and Alabama. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah even named Corral as the quarterback who could fly up draft boards in 2022, reminiscent of Zach Wilson.
9. Jayden Daniels, Arizona State: Even throughout an awkward PAC-12 season, Daniels’ lauded athleticism and arm strength were on display. His ranking among other draft-eligible quarterbacks could be much higher after the season.
8. Brock Purdy, Iowa State: He could’ve been one of the top-ten quarterbacks selected in the 2021 NFL Draft. Instead, Brock Purdy elected to return to Iowa State. He may not play his way into the first round, but nothing’s truly off the table if he can help the Cyclones reach new heights.
7. Malik Willis, Liberty: The Liberty Flames quarterback helped ignite a legendary season that ended with a bowl victory over Coastal Carolina. If he can work on his decision-making with the football, Willis could become a top-of-the-first-round selection.
Top-10 draft-eligible quarterbacks: Possible risers
6. Kedon Slovis, USC: Penciled in as a top pick for years, Slovis could be drafted higher than former Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold. His accuracy, ball-placement and all-around ability make USC a threat week-in and week-out. If he plays to his potential in 2021, he could realize his dream of being the top selection in the NFL Draft.
5. Desmond Ridder, Cincinnati: Everyone is trying to find the next Patrick Mahomes. Many believe Ridder possesses some of the traits that make Mahomes great. He moves exceptionally well, while also possessing boundless arm strength and athleticism.
4. Carson Strong, Nevada: If you haven’t heard of the Nevada signal-caller prior, it’s time to find out. Strong possesses the top deep ball among his peers, and his mechanics are top-notch.
Top-10 draft-eligible quarterbacks: Potential first overall picks
3. JT Daniels, Georgia: Once mentioned alongside Trevor Lawrence and Justin Fields, injuries have plagued Daniels. He still possesses five-star talent and can showcase it inside Todd Monken’s offensive system at Georgia. He may have lost his job at USC to Slovis, but he out-ranks his former teammate on Steele’s list of draft-eligible quarterbacks.
2. Sam Howell, North Carolina: From day one, Howell put himself firmly in the conversation to go number one overall once draft-eligible. A starter from his first day on campus, Howell excels at many things. He has impressive ball placement, an electrifying arm, stout intelligence and enough athleticism to make plays with his legs. His ability to do it all makes him a coveted prospect.
1. Spencer Rattler, Oklahoma: Some potential number one picks take years to establish themselves, but Rattler wasn’t one of those guys. A former five-star recruit, his name is at the top of watchlists for the Heisman, Maxwell and Davey O’Brien awards. Rattler’s quick release, ability to throw the ball on the run and beautiful deep ball elevate him. Another year in Lincoln Riley’s offensive system should solidify his standing as the top draft-eligible quarterback.