Predicting The Starting Quarterback For Each NFL Team In 2023

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens: Trey Lance

After trading away Lamar Jackson for a slew of draft capital, the Baltimore Ravens can still acquire a quarterback like Trey Lance for a fraction of that cost. Lance, who may be the odd man out in San Francisco after the breakout of Brock Purdy, is somewhat of an unknown player, as the quarterback has failed to play two full games in either of his first two seasons. Despite being unproven, Lance might be the best option available for a young team that can’t wait around with a bridge quarterback.

Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow

After reaching the AFC Championship in his only two seasons as a healthy, full-time starter, Joe Burrow has done everything you expect a first overall quarterback to do for your team and then some. This season, Burrow finished fifth in passing yards and tied for second in passing touchdowns, and as one of the league’s best quarterbacks at any age, Cincinnati will likely give Burrow a long-term contract before the 2023 season.

Cleveland Browns: Deshaun Watson

Year one of Deshaun Watson with the Cleveland Browns didn’t prove a whole lot, as the quarterback totaled nearly 1,300 total yards with eight total touchdowns in just six games after a lengthy suspension. Watson will be paid nearly $55 million per year through 2026, so even if the team wanted to go a different direction under center, they are tied to him for the immediate future, especially considering that his contract is fully guaranteed.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Kenny Pickett

Kenny Pickett’s career with the Pittsburgh Steelers got off to a slower start, but his play at the end of the season suggests that he might be the true successor to Ben Roethlisberger. In 13 games, Pickett only averaged 185 yards per game and had seven total passing touchdowns. However, Pickett dramatically improved throughout the season, as his interception total went from eight picks in his first five games to just one over his final seven.