Finding a franchise quarterback who can lead the team to victory is like finding a needle in a haystack during the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-running-in-nfl-history-20230104-SPD-3304.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL Draft</a>. Offensive quarterbacks often need more time than defensive players to get comfortable with the playbook, the scheme, and their bodies.



Inevitably, there will be an out. Joe Burrow, Kyler Murray, and Justin Herbert have dominated from the start of the season on. Historically speaking, it wasn’t standard practice for clubs to invest early draft selections in quarterbacks.



There are no sure bets since <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/tom-brady-takes-leave-from-buccaneers-until-august-20-for-personal-matters-2506-20220811-SPD-2506.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a> was the 199th choice in his Draft. Nonetheless, the following quarterbacks were widely regarded as future Hall of Famers, but they all but squandered their potential and eventually retired from the NFL due to poor performance.



<h2>3. Akili Smith (1999)</h2>



After his time at Oregon, Smith seemed to be a dangerous dual-threat quarterback with the ability to extend plays with his feet and rack up big yardage totals.



Smith seemed to be completely out of sync with his receivers from day one and was unable to make any necessary adjustments. He stopped playing after the 2002 season with a career-throwing stat line of 2,212 yards, 5 TDs against 13 INTs, and retirement.



<h2>2. Ryan Leaf (1998)</h2>



Ryan Leaf was compared to Peyton Manning very often. He thrived at Washington State and had all the physical qualities to become a lethal passer and the future face of the league. He spent only three seasons in the NFL before being demoted to practice squads.



All of Leaf’s endeavors were failures. He was clumsy, slow, and inaccurate when throwing to open receivers. He left the game with a quarterback rating of 50, 3,666 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and a shocking 36 interceptions.



<h2>1. JaMarcus Russell (2007)</h2>



Without a doubt, JaMarcus Russell is the most disappointing player in NFL history. Just two years after being selected, he had fallen from LSU legend status and the status of “can’t-miss talent” to the fringes of professional sports.



As he was high on codeine, Russell had stopped watching movies and working out. He was built for greatness and possessed the arm power and accuracy to become a legendary quarterback, but instead, he retired with 4,803 career passing yards, 18 touchdowns, 23 interceptions, and 15 fumbles. Six years and $68 million later, the Raiders still owed him $31.5 million of the total.

Top 3 quarterback flops in NFL draft history

Top 3 quarterback flops in NFL draft history - thesportsdrops NEWS

miniaturas

The running back position has been an integral part of the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-wide-receivers-in-nfl-history-20221231-SPD-3297.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> since its beginnings. In the modern era of American football, where quarterbacks and high-octane speed create the game, a dominant rush assault will prove to be the deciding factor in the outcome of games.



While big passes are exciting to see, nothing beats the joy of a great run defense being carved apart. Even though the running back position has evolved with the modern game of football, the history of the National Football League has a history of great ball carriers.



By the middle of the 2000s, having a backfield standout might be a huge advantage since many of the NFL’s all-time best running backs retired decades earlier. Several current athletes have also achieved legendary status in their respective professions. Check out the top three running backs in NFL history.



<h2>3. Walter Payton</h2>



The NFL record for rushing yards was held by Walter “Sweetness” Payton until 2002 when Emmitt Smith surpassed him. In addition, his 110 rushing touchdowns rank fourth all-time.



He was the 1977 Super Bowl XX winner and was selected to the Pro Bowl nine times. After scoring a touchdown, he was so proud of himself that he threw the ball to the referee instead of continuing the celebration.



<h2>2. Jim Brown</h2>



This 8-time All-Pro and 3-time MVP was more than just a fullback; he played in every game of his NFL career. A fearsome combination of size and speed allowed the massive Brown to run on defenseman with ease, and he did it seven times in all but one season, playing in 12 or 14 games each time.



Throughout his career, Brown scored more than one touchdown each game and set a new NFL record of 5.2 meters per track.



<h2>1. Emmitt Smith</h2>



After 15 years and 226 games in the NFL, <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emmitt Smith</a> topped the list of all-time rushers. Smith, who finished last, ran the ball 4,409 times for 18,355 yards in his career.



Averaging 4.2 yards per carry and scoring 175 times. Smith’s career average from scrimmage to reception is 21.579 yards, which he achieved over the course of 13 years with Dallas and two with Arizona.

Top 3 running backs in NFL history

Top 3 running backs in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS

The <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-centers-in-nfl-history-20221230-SPD-3292.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> may have had one of the most racially and ethnically diverse rosters after 1985, but professional football has had tremendous popularity since at least the 1930s. At now, the wide receiver position is the most important one in the NFL.



When things go well or wrong for a team, the biggest outs, next to the quarterback, seem to garner the most scrutiny. Many wide receivers (WRs) over the years have won championships and even reigned as “kings” of the sport.



Even superstar athletes like Odell Beckham and Antonio Brown are always in the spotlight these days, as they serve as the public face of their respective teams and the NFL itself. What follows is a ranking of the best three <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wide receivers</a> in NFL history.



<h2>3. Randy Moss</h2>



The tone for Moss’s career was established early in his debut year when he led the league with 17 goals. Moss led the NFL with five touchdown catches and was selected to the First Team All-Pro four times. He scored 23 touchdowns in a single season in 2007, setting a new record.



<h2>2. Marvin H. Harrison</h2>



Marvin Harrison, an eight-time Pro Bowler who played for 13 years and amassed 14,580 yards and 128 touchdowns, retired from the NFL in 2009. He finished his career with the Indianapolis Colts.



When the Colts beat the Bears in Super Bowl XLI, Harrison got his hands on a ring. He has previously been a Pro Football Hall of Fame finalist in 2014 and 2015.



<h2>1. Jerry Rice</h2>



Having been selected to the Pro Bowl 11 times and to the All-Pro first team 10 times, Rice holds NFL records that will never be broken. Twice he had the most receptions in the league, and on six occasions he had the most receiving yards or touchdowns.



His thirties were a time of great improvement, as he amassed more yards than his twenties had seen. By the time he retired in 2006, Rice had thrown for 1,549 yards and 197 scores.

Top 3 wide receivers in NFL history

Top 3 wide receivers in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS

While the center’s contributions to an <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> team’s offense sometimes go undetected, they are crucial to the success of the team’s overall offense. Only a select few people have ever held this position with such high regard throughout the League’s existence.



Although we are all considering abilities and even mentioning offensive tackles by name if we want to seem particularly sage, centers are vital to any offensive plan.



Even though they play an important role, centers don’t always have the easiest time of it. Centers are underappreciated despite performing one of the few sports roles that require both cerebral and physical prowess. Check out the best centers in NFL history.



<h2>3. Jim Ringo</h2>



Jim Ringo was a key contributor in the Green Bay Packers’ two NFL championship runs in his last three seasons with the team. In 1961, the trio of Jim Taylor, Jim Ringo, and Paul Hornung accounted for an additional 1,800 yards on the ground.



Twenty-three touchdowns were the salt and pepper to the whole dish. After leaving the Packers after the 1963 season, Ringo played for the Philadelphia Eagles for four years, during which time he was named to the Pro Bowl three times.



<h2>2. Mike Webster</h2>



Webster may not have gotten the most recognition for the Pittsburgh Steelers four Super Bowl wins, but he was instrumental in keeping the team’s great offensive line together. To this day, he is still considered one of the finest defensive centers and creates space for Franco Harris. Webster had an integral role in the Pro Bowl every year from 1978 through 1985.



Webster left the Steelers after 16 years with the team. Webster was a major reason why Christian Okoye gained over 2,200 yards in a span of two seasons (1989 and 1990). The game Mike loved so much was finally purchased by him. The 50-year-old Hall of Fame center succumbed to injuries sustained while playing football.



<h2>1. Jim Otto</h2>



No matter the year, the Raiders standout was the top player in his position in the NFL. In order to protect quarterbacks like Tom Flores, Daryle Lamonica, and Ken Stabler, he was the best there was at what he did.



While Otto was a mauler, he also exemplified the league’s shift toward more athletic centers. He played in 308 consecutive games from 1960 to 1974, which is an impressive feat of endurance.

Top 3 centers in NFL history

Top 3 centers in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS

Although <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-rumors-3-reasons-washington-commanders-playoff-chances-are-real-20221116-SPD-3157.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kickers</a> are sometimes overlooked, they play a crucial role in the success of a football team. Like referees in other sports, kickers are expected to remain unsung heroes on the field.



When watching an <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-rookies-for-2022-23-nfl-season-20221207-SPD-3236.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL game</a>, the sidelines often don’t get much attention. They’re trying to keep warm by repeatedly kicking the ball into the net. They have to sit on the bench for the rest of the game and kick a 55-yard field goal to redeem themselves.



To earn the title of “greatest kicker of all time”, players must maintain a high level of performance in their field for an extended period of time, earning praise and admiration from their peers and building a solid reputation for their family in the process. Check out NFL history’s best kickers.



<h2>3. Lou Groza</h2>



Groza’s career wasn’t a rating winner. However, he made significant changes to the kicking industry. From 40-50 yards out, he was the first kicker to be challenged. Every year, the top kicker in college football receives the Lou Grossa award.



<h2>2. Morten Andersen</h2>



Morten Andersen, who lived a long life, had a career that is only rivaled by a few of the current players. Andersen has set several records over the course of his incredible 25-year career, including the most games played (382), most total field goals (565), and most earned points span (2,544).



He participated in seven Pro Bowls, was selected to the All-Pro team five times, and was just the second pure kicker to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.



<h2>1. Justin Tucker</h2>



With a career field goal percentage of 90.1% and just one point after a touchdown missed, Justin Tucker is the most accurate kicker in NFL history. He played in two Pro Bowls and was named to the First Team All-Pro for three consecutive seasons. He is also an accomplished grab kicker, with several of his kicks landing on the line.

Top 3 kickers in NFL history

Top 3 kickers in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS

Growing up, young athletes often find success in more than one sport. While some want to make it to the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-teams-in-2022-23-nba-season-so-far-20221210-SPD-3243.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>, others have their sights set on the MLB. Some people compete in track meets because they want to emulate the greatness of <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-rookies-for-2022-23-nfl-season-20221207-SPD-3236.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> players.



There are instances when athletes disregard their likely position or compensation and seek a career in the sport they love the most. Some people are simply motivated by financial gain or the chance to excel in a particular activity.



Regardless, it’s easy to wonder whether those athletes wouldn’t have been just as successful, if not better if they had taken a different career route. Therefore, we will inform you about three NBA greats who, in retrospect, perhaps would have been as successful in the NFL.



<h2>3. John Havlicek</h2>



John Havlicek, a superstar for the Boston Celtics, was an All-Star in baseball, football, and basketball during his formative years. It’s true that he was picked up in both the NFL and NBA drafts.



The good news for basketball fans is that the renowned guard/forward opted to take his skills to the floor, where he won eight NBA titles, appeared in thirteen All-Star Games and was named Finals MVP once.



<h2>2. Allen Iverson</h2>



All-Star guard Allen Iverson once said that football was his true passion, surpassing even his beloved sport of basketball. He even said he was better at football than basketball, which, when you see the clips, doesn’t seem that far-fetched.



The legendary Philadelphia 76ers player could also play quarterback, kick returner, and defense. Iverson had 21 interceptions throughout his high school career, including a record-tying 5 in a single game because of his exceptional quickness. In addition, he guided his teams to victories at the state level.



<h2>1. LeBron James</h2>



<a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-small-forwards-in-2022-23-nba-season-20221202-SPD-3219.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> wasn’t only inflicting devastation on football before he became the most anticipated basketball prospect of all time. Two times he was named to the All-State team, and he also established several records while playing wide receiver and quarterback.



James, who had a similar build to Calvin Johnson, would have had a terrific NFL career. As a football player, he attracted attention from many schools, including Miami, Notre Dame, Alabama, and Ohio State.

LeBron James and other NBA greats who could have had successful NFL careers

LeBron James and other NBA greats who could have had successful NFL careers - thesportsdrops NEWS

The <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/odell-beckham-jr-s-return-to-rams-looks-unlikely-after-recieving-lowest-offer-20221012-SPD-2960.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Rams</a> headed into the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-rumors-patrick-mahomes-and-potential-mvp-candidates-of-2022-season-20221108-SPD-3092.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2022 NFL season</a> with high aspirations, aiming to build off a fantastic campaign that saw them win the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/patrick-mahomes-admission-on-chiefs-shocking-loss-to-bengals-in-2022-nfl-playoffs-2485-20220809-SPD-2485.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> at home. However, nothing has gone according to plan so far.



While quarterback Matthew Stafford struggled from the very beginning with his elbow, the team was struck by injuries throughout the season. Therefore, their record this year is not even close to that of the previous campaign.



On Sunday, the Rams suffered their eighth loss of the season, which is why their playoff hopes look practically over. Disappointing as it may seem, they would not be the first to miss the playoffs the year after they won the Super Bowl. These are some other teams.



<h2>New York Giants</h2>



The New York Giants had a big decision to make after their 1991 Super Bowl win, with Bill Parcells stepping away from head coaching. Of course, time proved they missed out on a fantastic head coach by promoting Ray Handley instead of Bill Belichick. The Giants missed the playoffs the next season with an 8-8 record.



The team experienced the same feeling two decades later, failing to qualify for the playoffs in the 2012 season just a year after beating the Patriots in the Super Bowl.



<h2>Denver Broncos</h2>



The retirement of John Elway after the 1999 Super Bowl victory certainly took a toll on the Broncos, who missed the playoffs the following season with a 6-10 record. History repeated itself in 2016, as Denver failed to overcome Peyton Manning’s retirement and missed the 2016-17 postseason after winning the Super Bowl in February.



<h2>New England Patriots</h2>



Adam Vinatieri’s clutch, 48-yard field goal against the Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI gave the Patriots their first Vince Lombardi trophy in February 2002. Only a season later, New England failed to make the playoffs by going 9-7.



<h2>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</h2>



After winning their first ever Super Bowl in 2003, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers missed the postseason the following year as they went 7-9.



<h2>Pittsburgh Steelers</h2>



The Pittsburgh Steelers have experienced the Super Bowl hangover twice in recent years. After winning the Vince Lombardi against all odds in 2006, the Steelers went 8-8 in their next season and missed the playoffs. Something similar happened in the 2009 season, as their 9-7 record wasn’t enough to try and challenge for back-to-back championships.



<h2>Baltimore Ravens</h2>



The Ravens were unable to repeat their success from the 2012-13 season, going 8-8 in the year after they won Super Bowl XLVII.

Rams could join list of NFL teams that missed playoffs a year after Super Bowl win

Rams could join list of NFL teams that missed playoffs a year after Super Bowl win - thesportsdrops NEWS

Things in the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-rumors-patrick-mahomes-and-potential-mvp-candidates-of-2022-season-20221108-SPD-3092.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Football League</a> can change in the blink of an eye. If not, look at the Washington Commanders, who have just defeated the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/robert-quinn-of-eagles-set-to-accomplish-feat-not-witnessed-since-1930-20221028-SPD-3058.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia Eagles</a> on the road against all odds.



Ron Rivera’s men pulled off a shock on Monday night, taking down the 8-0 Eagles to hand Nick Sirianni’s team its first loss of the year and prove why their playoff hopes are still alive.



Many seemed to rule Washington out as a playoff contender due to its weak start to the season, which was understandable. But after this win, the outlook has changed and it’s time to see the Commanders as a potential playoff team.



<h2>3. Chase Young returns</h2>



In their massive win in Philly, the Commanders set the tempo and their defense made sure of shutting down Jalen Hurts’ offense. To make things even better, Chase Young is nearing his return.



The former Defensive Rookie of the Year has been on the sidelines since November 2021, when he suffered a torn ACL. Young is one of the best pass rushers in the league, so his addition would certainly boost an inspired Commanders’ defense.



<h2>2. Favorable schedule</h2>



If the Commanders look at their schedule, they should feel encouraged for what’s next. On the wheels of a promising result, it would make sense if Washington (5-5) gets enough victories in the next seven weeks to make the postseason.



First, they visit the 1-7-1 Texans. They’d later have to beat the 4-6 Falcons, who currently run from behind in the playoff picture. The following two divisional games against the Giants would be crucial, before facing the 49ers, Browns, and Cowboys.



<h2>1. Playoff picture wide open</h2>



The NFC East is making things complicated for Washington, as right now it’s the only division of the conference with all four teams above .500. Even so, the Commanders are still on pace to clinch a playoff berth.



Washington is currently one place below the 49ers (5-4), who would claim the last Wild Card ticket today. But let’s keep in mind that it still has to face San Francisco, Dallas and New York (twice), who are all in playoff spots. Therefore, the Commanders depend on themselves.

NFL Rumors: 3 reasons Washington Commanders playoff chances are real

NFL Rumors: 3 reasons Washington Commanders playoff chances are real - thesportsdrops NEWS

Nine weeks into the 2022 NFL season may not be enough to predict how the year will end, but we may know what to expect. For instance, it’s safe to say <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-travis-kelce-believes-we-have-yet-to-see-the-best-of-patrick-mahomes-2546-20220818-SPD-2546.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patrick Mahomes</a> is on pace for the MVP award.



Of course, with so many games left, anything can happen. Even so, we can already tell that Aaron Rodgers will probably not grab the award for a third consecutive time — unless he does something unreal in the remainder of the campaign.



On the other hand, the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/kadarius-toney-of-giants-traded-to-chiefs-in-exchange-for-draft-picks-20221027-SPD-3054.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kansas City Chiefs</a> superstar is making a case to be in the conversation. After nine weeks, he and other three players have proved they might challenge for the accolade.



<h2>4. Tua Tagovailoa (Miami Dolphins)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" data-id="3115" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.thesportsdrop.com/webp/news/SPD_20221108_SPD_3092_Tua-vs-Bears-Nov-2022-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-3115" srcset="https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Tua-vs-Bears-Nov-2022-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Tua-vs-Bears-Nov-2022-300x168.jpg 300w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Tua-vs-Bears-Nov-2022-768x429.jpg 768w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Tua-vs-Bears-Nov-2022.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div></figure>
<figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Michael Reaves/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Perhaps the most debatable of the list, <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/tua-tagovailoa-of-dolphins-discharged-from-hospital-after-head-and-neck-injury-scare-20221001-SPD-2873.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tua Tagovailoa</a> has so far had a remarkable season. With him on the field, the Dolphins have been ruthless in offense. On top of that, Tua has the highest QBR in the league after nine weeks (79.9).



Having completed 69.9% of his passes for 1,980 yards, 15 touchdowns and just three interceptions, the Alabama product is giving Miami reasons for optimism. If he continues to produce like this, he should at least be in consideration.



<h2>3. Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" data-id="3116" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.thesportsdrop.com/webp/news/SPD_20221108_SPD_3092_Allen-vs-Ravens-Oct-2022-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-3116" srcset="https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Allen-vs-Ravens-Oct-2022-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Allen-vs-Ravens-Oct-2022-300x168.jpg 300w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Allen-vs-Ravens-Oct-2022-768x429.jpg 768w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Allen-vs-Ravens-Oct-2022.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div></figure>
<figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Rob Carr/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



The obvious candidate even before the season started, Josh Allen has been living up to the expectations this year — though he can do even better. Currently third at QBR (74.2), the Bills star continues to produce both with the arm and with his legs.



Allen has completed 64.1% of his passes this season, throwing for 2,403 yards with 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions, while he has 392 rushing yards with 4 TDs. Buffalo entered the season with Super Bowl aspirations, and its QB has only fueled those in the past nine weeks.



<h2>2. Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" data-id="3119" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.thesportsdrop.com/webp/news/SPD_20221108_SPD_3092_Hurts-vs-Texans-TNF-2022-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-3119" srcset="https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Hurts-vs-Texans-TNF-2022-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Hurts-vs-Texans-TNF-2022-300x168.jpg 300w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Hurts-vs-Texans-TNF-2022-768x429.jpg 768w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Hurts-vs-Texans-TNF-2022.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div></figure>
<figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Carmen Mandato/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



One of the biggest storylines of the season has been the surprising progress Jalen Hurts has made in 2022. No one seemed to believe in him the way the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/robert-quinn-of-eagles-set-to-accomplish-feat-not-witnessed-since-1930-20221028-SPD-3058.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eagles</a> did, and it’s paying off.



Not only is he leading a team that has yet to lose a game this year, but Hurts has also proven his own talent as a dual-threat quarterback. 68.2% of passes completed for 2,042 yards with 12 TDs and just 2 INTs, along with 326 rushing yards and six rushing TDs suggest we might have a potential MVP season here.



<h2>1. Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.thesportsdrop.com/webp/news/SPD_20221108_SPD_3092_Mahomes-vs-Titans-Nov-2022-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-3122" srcset="https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Mahomes-vs-Titans-Nov-2022-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Mahomes-vs-Titans-Nov-2022-300x168.jpg 300w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Mahomes-vs-Titans-Nov-2022-768x429.jpg 768w, https://thesportsdrop-news.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/11/Mahomes-vs-Titans-Nov-2022.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>David Eulitt/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Once again, <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/patrick-mahomes-admission-on-chiefs-shocking-loss-to-bengals-in-2022-nfl-playoffs-2485-20220809-SPD-2485.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mahomes</a> is proving why he’s worth every single penny of the multi-year deal he signed with the Chiefs a few years back. Even without Tyreek Hill, he’s finding ways to make his opponents feel scared.



While he is only behind Tua in QBR (75.4), Mahomes leads the NFL in passing yards (2,605) and passing touchdowns (21). Besides, he racked up over 100 rushing yards. His six INTs is something to keep an eye on. If his turnovers don’t increase much, then he might be the leading candidate.

NFL Rumors: Patrick Mahomes and potential MVP candidates of 2022 season - thesportsdrops NEWS

NFL Rumors: Patrick Mahomes and potential MVP candidates of 2022 season

After acquiring <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/kadarius-toney-of-giants-traded-to-chiefs-in-exchange-for-draft-picks-20221027-SPD-3054.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robert Quinn</a> in a trade with the Chicago Bears, the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-russell-wilson-gets-real-on-broncos-locker-room-mood-after-2-4-start-20221019-SPD-2993.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia Eagles</a> wasted no time getting him into the lineup. The veteran edge rusher is expected to make his debut this Sunday, Week 8, against the Pittsburgh Steelers.



Quinn would be one of the few players without a bye week if he plays on Sunday. It’s worth noting that the Bears didn’t have their bye week before trading for Quinn, while the Eagles are fresh off theirs.



With seven games under his belt for the Bears and another 11 on the schedule for the Eagles, Quinn is on pace to play 18 times in a 17-game season. A pair of NFL players, Tony Costos and Cookie Tackwell of the Frankford Yellow Jackets and Minneapolis Red Jackets, respectively, participated in all 18 games that season in 1930.



<h2>Eagles’ Robert Quinn to play 18 games in 17-game schedule</h2>



Before 1933, when the NFL established a set schedule, clubs’ records in non-league contests were included in their overall standings. Since Philadelphia’s Frankford is prohibited by the state’s “Blue Laws” from playing home games on Sundays, the team has to play its non-league or independent games on Saturdays and then travel for Sunday’s game.



If Quinn plays all 18, he would make history as the only player to do so since the league’s 1933 expansion to include divisions and a playoff for the title. Emmanuel Sanders was the final player to appear in all 16 games of the regular season in 2019.

Robert Quinn of Eagles set to accomplish feat not witnessed since 1930 - thesportsdrops NEWS

Robert Quinn of Eagles set to accomplish feat not witnessed since 1930

After a single season with the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-russell-wilson-gets-real-on-broncos-locker-room-mood-after-2-4-start-20221019-SPD-2993.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York Giants</a>, in which he played in only 12 games, <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/odell-beckham-jr-s-return-to-rams-looks-unlikely-after-recieving-lowest-offer-20221012-SPD-2960.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kadarius Toney</a> is leaving the team. According to theScore and CBS Sports NFL source Jonathan Jones, the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/patriots-news-bill-belichick-knows-who-to-thank-for-tying-george-halas-on-career-wins-20221018-SPD-2985.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kansas City Chiefs</a> have acquired former Florida wide receiver and 20th overall pick in the 2021 draft, Corey Coleman.



The 23-year-old had trouble staying on the field during his brief time with the Giants, but he will be catching passes from Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City after being traded there in exchange for a 2023 third-round draft choice and a 2023 sixth-round draft pick.



There are now just five days before the November 1 trade deadline, and this deal comes a day after the Giants’ NFC East rival Eagles acquired pass rusher, Robert Quinn, from the Bears. Toney’s hamstring issue has kept him out of action, thus the Chiefs’ starting quarterback’s availability for Week 9 is in doubt. For the time being, the Kansas City Chiefs do not have a game scheduled.



<h2>Kadarius Toney to continue career in Kansas</h2>



Toney, a versatile offensive threat out of college, showed off his big-play talent as a rookie, exploding for 10 receptions and 189 yards in a game against the Cowboys before being tossed for throwing a punch. However, an oblique injury and numerous trips on the COVID reserve prevented him from playing more than 12 games that year. 



Despite the Giants’ severe lack of wide receiver depth and new head coach Brian Daboll’s preference for a pass-oriented offense, he was only involved in four plays through two games before becoming shelved with a hamstring injury.

Kadarius Toney of Giants traded to Chiefs in exchange for draft picks

Kadarius Toney of Giants traded to Chiefs in exchange for draft picks - thesportsdrops NEWS

Back in the offseason, the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-russell-wilson-reacts-to-broncos-failed-field-goal-attempt-vs-seahawks-2746-20220914-SPD-2746.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell Wilson</a> trade to the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/von-miller-will-root-for-russell-wilson-broncos-while-chasing-super-bowl-ring-with-bills-2163-20220712-SPD-2163.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Broncos</a> seemed like a match made in heaven. However, only six weeks later many are wondering whether it was a mistake.



Though the veteran quarterback’s talent is undeniable, he has struggled to perform as expected since moving to the Mile High City. With their loss to the Chargers on Monday, the Broncos dropped to 2-4.



While the offense has so far failed to produce, the defense did their job well, which is why many wonder if there exists some sort of friction between the units. According to Wilson, things are just fine inside the locker room.



<h2>Russell Wilson says Broncos are united</h2>



“We don’t have division in our locker room,” Wilson said, via Kevin Patra of Around the NFL. “You guys saw how hard we played for each other. It didn’t go our way, but everyone is fighting their butts off every day. The line, the receivers, the running backs, the defense, the defensive line, the linebackers and our safeties and corners, everybody was playing for each other and we felt like we could have won the game.



“We had that fluke play at the end, but right before that play, we still felt like we could have won the game. It didn’t work out, but everyone is still together, and we still believe in everything we can do. We must find ways to continue making plays and score touchdowns and do that. The end of the first quarter and the second quarter to get all the way down there. That’s us. We have to bring that every time, and it can’t be anything less.”

NFL News: Russell Wilson gets real on Broncos' locker room mood after 2-4 start

NFL News: Russell Wilson gets real on Broncos' locker room mood after 2-4 start - thesportsdrops NEWS

It took only six weeks in the 2022 NFL season for Bill Belichick to found yet another way to go down in the history books. On Sunday, the longtime <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/brian-hoyer-of-patriots-ruled-out-for-at-least-four-weeks-following-head-injury-20221006-SPD-2926.html">Patriots</a> head coach tied George Halas on career victories.



<a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-julian-edelman-reveals-the-real-reason-behind-his-retirement-2604-20220826-SPD-2604.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England</a>’s 38-15 victory over the Cleveland Browns was the 324th win in Belichick’s head coaching career, making him the second winningest coach in NFL history along the Bears legend – only below Don Shula (347).



Needless to say, it’s an important feat for Belichick, who now is on the brink of surpassing Halas to further reduce the gap with the Miami Dolphins icon. Belichick is obviously proud of this feat, but thinks the players he coached deserve the credit.



<h2>Bill Belichick credits players, staff for tying George Halas on career wins</h2>



“George Halas, Paul Brown, I probably shouldn’t make that list,” Belichick said, via ProFootballTalk. “They were my idols. Coach Halas was again a friend of my dad’s. My dad knew people on the staff that coached for Coach Halas. He coached Bill Wade at Vanderbilt, so they had a lot of Chicago-Halas connections. When they came to Baltimore, we would go to the locker room after the game, stuff like that. They were always very gracious and generous. They let me hang around and stuff like that. A ton of respect for Coach Halas and the McCaskey family, and what he did for professional football and the way that he – and since we’re here, Paul Brown – and others like that paved the way for us as coaches and paved the way for the National Football League to grow into what it is today. They laid a lot of the building blocks.



“You can’t win games in this league without good players. I’m very fortunate to have coached a lot of great players and have had a lot of great coaches on my staff through the years. A lot of those guys have gone on to have tremendous careers and players obviously – many of them are Patriots Hall of Fame or NFL Hall of Fame, or are going to be. Winning games in this league is about having good players and I’m very fortunate to have a lot of them. I had them in New York. I had them in Cleveland. I have them here.”

Patriots News: Bill Belichick knows who to thank for tying George Halas on career wins

Patriots News: Bill Belichick knows who to thank for tying George Halas on career wins - thesportsdrops NEWS

For as long as <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/odell-beckham-jr-names-five-nfl-clubs-that-have-his-attention-for-eventual-comeback-20221007-SPD-2931.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Odell Beckham Jr.</a> has been a free agent, the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/will-cooper-rush-bench-dak-prescott-jerry-jones-speaks-up-on-cowboys-qb-situation-20221011-SPD-2944.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Rams</a> have been among the favorites to sign him. After being released by the Cleveland Browns last year, he joined them and ended up winning the Super Bowl. 



It was claimed this week by ESPN that OBJ’s most probable landing location would be with his former side, the Rams, but on Wednesday he poured cold water on that story. 



This week, a Twitter account going by the handle “Built in Buffalo” claimed that OBJ had been seen at the Buffalo airport. Because of this, a discussion broke out among the supporters, and the 29-year-old ultimately joined in. The wide receiver said on Twitter that the Rams’ offer was below-average.



<h2>What Odell Beckham Jr. thinks of Rams’ bid</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“LA knows where I wanted to be… but they didn’t offer me…. ANYthing! So idk what people want me to do, I def kno my worth and what the offer was isn’t reflective of that. So it’s tough to say that I can come on back even tho I thought I finally found that home !“But YES LA treated me normal and special all in the same breath , we see how that played out! For both sides. I went out to win a (trophy) there knowin the risk of playin without an ACL… and then I got the lowest of low offers after that goin into the next season. Impossible (laughing emojis)”</blockquote>

Odell Beckham Jr.'s return to Rams looks unlikely after recieving lowest offer

Odell Beckham Jr.'s return to Rams looks unlikely after recieving lowest offer - thesportsdrops NEWS

When <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-dak-prescott-feels-cowboys-are-in-a-better-position-than-in-2021-2596-20220825-SPD-2596.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dak Prescott</a> suffered a thumb injury in Week 1, the outlook wasn’t good. The <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/super-bowl-champions-list-of-all-time-winners-215-20220503-SPD-215.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cowboys</a> were once again facing time without their star quarterback, and only a few thought Cooper Rush would keep them afloat.



But after four consecutive wins, many are already wondering whether Rush should continue to lead the offense even when Prescott is healthy. No one would have ever considered it, but the results are very impressive.



Cowboys owner <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-mike-mccarthy-gets-strong-support-from-cowboys-owner-jerry-jones-2364-20220726-SPD-2364.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jerry Jones</a>, like everyone in Dallas, is happy to see Rush doing so well when the team needed him the most. However, he made it clear that Prescott’s job is not in danger.



<h2>Jerry Jones says Dak Prescott will remain Cowboys QB1</h2>



“Dak is the No. 1 quarterback, Dak is our guy,” Jones said, via the Star-Telegram. “But isn’t it great that somebody came in and played well enough so that we can ask that question? That’s my point.



“Dak is going to get better this week. I have no idea whether he’ll line up against Philadelphia, but he’ll get better. And what’s inspirational here is that we’ve got a lot of good players here that didn’t play today that we’ve got help on the way with. Cooper Rush and the Dak Prescott syndrome, so to speak, is a fingerprint of this team.”