The 2018 NFL Draft quarterback class was highly anticipated, featuring names like Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, Josh Allen, Josh Rosen, and Lamar Jackson. These quarterbacks were selected with high hopes of becoming franchise cornerstones, forever changing the trajectory of their respective teams. Six years later, it’s time to revisit this celebrated group and assess their career trajectories, examining the successes, struggles, and current situations of each player. This article dives deep into the 2018 NFL QB Draft Class.
The Top Picks: High Hopes and Mixed Results
The 2018 NFL Draft saw three quarterbacks selected in the top ten, each carrying enormous expectations. This section assesses how each quarterback has performed since being drafted. — Donald Trump's Hair: The Latest Updates And Evolution
Baker Mayfield: From No. 1 Pick to Journeyman
Baker Mayfield was selected first overall by the Cleveland Browns, ending a decades-long search for a franchise quarterback. Mayfield showed flashes of potential, leading the Browns to their first playoff appearance since 2002 during the 2020 season. However, inconsistencies and injuries plagued his tenure in Cleveland, leading to his eventual departure. Ultimately, Mayfield's time with the Browns was marked by a mix of promise and frustration, as he struggled to consistently elevate the team to contender status.
Following his time in Cleveland, Baker Mayfield embarked on a journeyman phase, making brief stops with the Carolina Panthers and the Los Angeles Rams. In 2023, Mayfield signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he experienced a career resurgence. He led the Buccaneers to an unexpected division title and a playoff victory, earning himself a new contract with the team. Baker Mayfield's ability to revive his career in Tampa Bay has been a testament to his resilience and adaptability as a player.
Sam Darnold: The Lingering "Bust" Label
The New York Jets selected Sam Darnold with the third overall pick, hoping he would be their long-awaited savior. Darnold's time with the Jets was marred by poor offensive lines, a lack of supporting talent, and inconsistent coaching. Despite showing glimpses of talent, he struggled to consistently perform at a high level. The Jets eventually traded him to the Carolina Panthers after three seasons. Ultimately, Darnold's tenure with the Jets was defined by unfulfilled potential and a challenging environment that hindered his development.
After an unsuccessful stint with the Panthers, Sam Darnold became a backup quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers. In 2024, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings, seeking an opportunity to revive his career. Darnold's journey has been a stark reminder of how crucial team context and support are for a quarterback's success. His career trajectory underscores the challenges that young quarterbacks face when thrust into unfavorable situations early in their careers.
Josh Allen: The Late Bloomer Who Became a Superstar
Josh Allen was selected seventh overall by the Buffalo Bills, a pick that was initially met with skepticism. Allen's raw talent was evident, but his accuracy and decision-making were major concerns. The Bills coaching staff, however, saw his potential and committed to developing him. Through dedicated coaching and Allen's own hard work, he transformed into one of the league's most dynamic quarterbacks.
Josh Allen has led the Bills to multiple division titles and deep playoff runs. Allen has established himself as a perennial MVP candidate and one of the faces of the NFL. His remarkable transformation from a raw prospect to a superstar quarterback is a testament to the power of player development and the importance of patience in evaluating young talent. Allen's success story serves as an inspiration for other quarterbacks who enter the league with perceived flaws but possess the potential to become elite players.
The Rest of the Class: Finding Success in Unexpected Places
While the top picks garnered most of the attention, other quarterbacks from the 2018 draft class have carved out their own paths in the NFL.
Josh Rosen: A Cautionary Tale
Josh Rosen was selected tenth overall by the Arizona Cardinals, but his career quickly derailed. Rosen struggled mightily during his rookie season, and the Cardinals drafted Kyler Murray the following year, effectively ending Rosen's tenure in Arizona. He then bounced around to several different teams, never finding a stable role. Rosen's career serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of evaluating quarterback prospects and the importance of fit within a particular system.
Rosen's struggles highlight the challenges that young quarterbacks face when they are thrust into unfavorable situations or lack the support system necessary for development. His experience underscores the importance of patience and careful evaluation when assessing the potential of quarterback prospects. As of 2024, Rosen continues to search for an opportunity to revive his career, hoping to prove that he still has the talent to compete at the NFL level.
Lamar Jackson: The League MVP and a Ravens Icon
Lamar Jackson was the last quarterback selected in the first round, taken 32nd overall by the Baltimore Ravens. Jackson's unique running ability and unconventional passing style led some to question whether he could succeed as a traditional NFL quarterback. However, Jackson quickly proved his doubters wrong, leading the Ravens to the playoffs in his first full season as a starter.
In 2019, Lamar Jackson won the NFL MVP award in unanimous fashion, showcasing his exceptional talent and electrifying playing style. He has continued to be a dominant force in the league, leading the Ravens to multiple playoff appearances and solidifying his place as one of the NFL's most exciting players. Jackson's success has changed the way teams evaluate quarterback prospects, emphasizing the importance of athleticism and versatility in the modern game.
Revisiting the Draft Grades: Hindsight is 20/20
Looking back at the 2018 NFL Draft, it's clear that initial evaluations were far from accurate. While some top picks lived up to their potential, others faltered, and a few late-round selections exceeded all expectations. This section examines how the draft grades have changed over time, reflecting the actual performance of each quarterback.
The Importance of Player Development and Coaching
The success stories of Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson highlight the crucial role of player development and coaching in shaping a quarterback's career. Both players entered the league with raw talent but needed time and guidance to refine their skills and reach their full potential. The Bills and Ravens coaching staffs deserve credit for their patience and commitment to developing these quarterbacks. — The Hunting Wives Season 2: Unveiling Secrets And Suspense
In contrast, the struggles of Sam Darnold and Josh Rosen underscore the challenges that young quarterbacks face when they are thrust into unfavorable situations or lack the support system necessary for development. These players were drafted into teams with poor offensive lines, limited supporting talent, and inconsistent coaching, which ultimately hindered their growth.
The Evolving Landscape of NFL Quarterbacks
The 2018 NFL Draft class also reflects the evolving landscape of NFL quarterbacks. Lamar Jackson's success has paved the way for more mobile and athletic quarterbacks to thrive in the league. Teams are now more willing to embrace quarterbacks with unconventional playing styles, recognizing the value of versatility and adaptability in the modern game. The rise of quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Kyler Murray further exemplifies this trend, as teams prioritize players who can make plays with both their arms and their legs.
Lessons Learned: What the 2018 Draft Class Teaches Us
The 2018 NFL Draft quarterback class offers several valuable lessons for teams evaluating quarterback prospects. It highlights the importance of thorough scouting, patient player development, and creating a supportive environment for young quarterbacks to succeed. It also underscores the unpredictable nature of the draft and the challenges of projecting future performance.
Beyond the Stats: Intangibles and Leadership
While statistics and physical attributes are important, the 2018 NFL Draft class also emphasizes the significance of intangibles such as leadership, work ethic, and mental toughness. Josh Allen's transformation from a raw prospect to a superstar quarterback is a testament to his unwavering dedication and his ability to inspire his teammates. Similarly, Baker Mayfield's resilience and competitive spirit have allowed him to overcome adversity and revive his career.
In contrast, the struggles of some other quarterbacks in the class highlight the challenges that arise when players lack the mental fortitude or leadership qualities necessary to thrive in the NFL. These intangibles are often difficult to measure, but they can be crucial determinants of a quarterback's long-term success.
The Need for Patience and Long-Term Vision
The 2018 NFL Draft quarterback class also underscores the need for patience and a long-term vision when evaluating quarterback prospects. Some quarterbacks may take time to develop and require a supportive environment to reach their full potential. Teams that are willing to invest in player development and provide young quarterbacks with the necessary resources are more likely to reap the rewards in the long run.
Ultimately, the success stories of Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson serve as a reminder that patience and perseverance can pay off handsomely when it comes to developing quarterback talent. These players were not immediate successes, but they were given the time and opportunity to grow into the superstars they are today.
FAQ About the 2018 NFL QB Draft Class
What quarterbacks were drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft?
The quarterbacks drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft were Baker Mayfield (1st overall), Sam Darnold (3rd overall), Josh Allen (7th overall), Josh Rosen (10th overall), and Lamar Jackson (32nd overall).
Which quarterback from the 2018 NFL Draft has had the most successful NFL career?
Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson have had the most successful NFL careers among the quarterbacks drafted in 2018. Allen has transformed into one of the league's most dynamic quarterbacks, while Jackson has won an NFL MVP award and led the Ravens to multiple playoff appearances.
Why did Baker Mayfield not succeed with the Cleveland Browns after being the first overall pick?
Baker Mayfield's lack of consistent success with the Browns can be attributed to a combination of factors, including inconsistencies in his performance, injuries, and changes in coaching staff and offensive schemes. Although he showed flashes of potential, he couldn't consistently elevate the team to contender status.
What factors contributed to Josh Allen's development into a star quarterback after a shaky start?
Josh Allen's transformation into a star quarterback is due to the Bills' coaching staff's commitment to his development, his own hard work and dedication, and the team's patience in allowing him to learn and grow. The Bills provided him with the support and resources he needed to refine his skills and reach his full potential.
How has Lamar Jackson changed the perception and evaluation of quarterback prospects in the NFL?
Lamar Jackson's success has led teams to place greater emphasis on athleticism, mobility, and versatility in quarterback prospects. His unique playing style and MVP-winning performance have demonstrated that quarterbacks don't need to fit the traditional mold to succeed in the NFL. — Raptors Vs. Pistons: Game Stats, Highlights & Analysis
What lessons can NFL teams learn from the successes and failures of the 2018 quarterback draft class?
NFL teams can learn the importance of thorough scouting, patient player development, and creating a supportive environment for young quarterbacks. The 2018 draft class highlights the unpredictable nature of the draft and the challenges of projecting future performance, underscoring the need for a long-term vision and a willingness to invest in player development.
What were the initial reactions and grades given to the Buffalo Bills for drafting Josh Allen, and how have those perceptions changed over time?
Initially, the Buffalo Bills received mixed to negative grades for drafting Josh Allen, with many analysts questioning his accuracy and decision-making. However, as Allen developed into a star quarterback, those perceptions have changed dramatically, and the Bills are now praised for their vision and patience in selecting and developing him.
What impact did the team environment and coaching staff have on the success or failure of quarterbacks from the 2018 NFL Draft?
The team environment and coaching staff played a significant role in the success or failure of quarterbacks from the 2018 NFL Draft. Quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson, who had supportive coaching staffs and stable environments, thrived, while those in less favorable situations, such as Sam Darnold and Josh Rosen, struggled to reach their potential.
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