The 2016 NFL Draft is often remembered for its quarterback class, a group that generated both immediate success and long-term questions. While not a universally lauded group like some drafts past, the 2016 QB class produced players who significantly impacted the NFL, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of evaluating quarterback talent. This retrospective analysis will explore the key players, their careers, and the lasting impact of the 2016 QB draft.
Who Were the Top QBs Drafted in 2016?
The 2016 NFL Draft saw four quarterbacks selected in the first round:
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Jared Goff (Rams, #1 overall): Goff’s selection marked a turning point for the Los Angeles Rams franchise. After a rocky start, he developed into a consistent Pro Bowl quarterback, leading the Rams to a Super Bowl appearance. His career highlights include multiple Pro Bowl selections and consistently high passing yardage totals.
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Carson Wentz (Eagles, #2 overall): Wentz’s early career showed immense promise, earning him an early Pro Bowl selection and showcasing elite talent. However, injuries significantly hampered his career trajectory, preventing him from consistently reaching his potential. While he's shown flashes of brilliance, the injuries have cast a shadow over his overall legacy.
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Dak Prescott (Cowboys, #135 overall): Prescott, a fourth-round pick, defied expectations by becoming a highly successful and durable starter for the Dallas Cowboys. His consistent play and leadership have made him a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ offense for many years. Prescott’s success highlights the unpredictability of the draft and the importance of finding value in later rounds.
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Paxton Lynch (Broncos, #26 overall): Lynch, a first-round pick, unfortunately failed to live up to expectations. His NFL career was short-lived, demonstrating the challenges in predicting success at the quarterback position.
How Did the 2016 QB Class Perform Overall?
The 2016 class presents a mixed bag. Goff and Prescott have had successful and consistent careers, showcasing the value of finding a franchise quarterback, even if one is a late-round pick. Wentz’s career, while undeniably talented, serves as a cautionary tale of the fragility and importance of avoiding significant injuries. Lynch’s career highlights the immense difficulty in predicting quarterback success, even at the highest levels of college football. The class overall was not considered a "great" QB draft, but its successes and failures have provided valuable lessons for future NFL teams.
Which 2016 QB Had the Best Career So Far?
While the debate continues, Jared Goff and Dak Prescott stand out as having had the most successful NFL careers thus far from the 2016 draft. Goff's consistent high-level play and playoff success with the Los Angeles Rams, combined with Prescott's longevity and consistency with the Dallas Cowboys, solidifies their status as the top performers from this class. Wentz’s talent remains undeniable, but consistency and availability have been significant hurdles.
Were There Any Undrafted QBs From 2016 Who Made an Impact?
While the focus often lies on the drafted players, it's important to remember the numerous undrafted free agents. While no undrafted QB from 2016 became a star, several contributed to NFL teams in various capacities, showcasing the continual search for talent beyond the draft.
What Lessons Can We Learn From the 2016 QB Draft Class?
The 2016 QB class demonstrates that accurately evaluating quarterback talent remains a significant challenge. The wide range of outcomes—from Super Bowl appearances to early career ends—highlights the unpredictable nature of the position. It emphasizes the importance of scouting, development, and even some luck in identifying future NFL stars. The success of Dak Prescott as a late-round pick emphasizes the importance of looking beyond the first round for potential value. The struggles of Paxton Lynch serve as a reminder that first-round status doesn’t guarantee success.
The 2016 NFL Draft QB class offers a compelling case study in the complexities of evaluating, developing, and managing quarterback talent in the NFL. Its mixed results continue to shape how teams approach the draft and the development of quarterbacks in the modern era.
