Each member of our NFL Insiders panel offers his pick for the best 25-and-under quarterback in the league. Plus: Offensive coordinators who have been the most impressive, and grades of Aaron Rodgers' performance so far this season.
Which 25-and-under QB would you like for the long term?
Matt Bowen, NFL writer: Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr is the pick because of his development this season and the tremendous upside to his game. Carr has top-tier arm strength and the athleticism to make plays off rhythm, and we've seen growth in the pocket. Carr can throw from multiple platforms and anticipate windows with touch passes, and he is using his entire toolbox to attack opposing secondaries. But along with the numbers this year -- 17 touchdowns and just three interceptions -- the tape shows us the quick rise in Carr's learning curve. He's beating pressure and winning in critical game situations. The young QB has a super-high ceiling and is an ideal fit for today's NFL game, which features a blend of pro-style and spread concepts.
John Clayton, senior NFL writer: I'd go with Carr. As one GM put it, Carr's release and the way he pinpoints some throws reminds him of Tom Brady. Carr also has that Brett Favre fearlessness. I like the fact that he's perfecting comeback wins. Plus, he wins games on the road, and that's tough for any 25-and-under quarterback. There's a good young group of QBs -- but Carr is at the head of that class. You also like the fact that he is a good pocket passer and doesn't have to rely on his legs to make plays; that gives him more longevity in the league. Carr has it all. It will be interesting to see how quickly he starts to move up into the group of elite quarterbacks. That is coming.