Thanksgiving Week in the NFL: Reflecting on Quarterback Optimism
As we gather around our tables this Thanksgiving week, let’s take a moment to reflect on the exciting quarterback landscape across the NFC. Yes, even the New York Giants have something to be thankful for! No need to roast any teams here, let’s dive into the reason for our optimism.
Deck the Halls with Running Backs
First off, let’s talk about the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. It’s shaping up to be a treasure trove for quality running backs! For the Dallas Cowboys, this is crucial as they need to shake things up. Their run game has been about as intimidating as a Thanksgiving turkey since 2022, and with Dak Prescott at the helm, they really need to bolster that balance in the offense. Just look around the league – running backs like Derrick Henry in Baltimore and Saquon Barkley in Philadelphia are proving to be game-changers for their quarterbacks!
Moving On from Daniel Jones
Switching gears to the Giants, they made a big call by letting go of quarterback Daniel Jones. It was a smart move! They realized this was just not working out and opted to put themselves in a better position for the future. Plus, it frees up Jones to pursue opportunities elsewhere. Even though he didn’t quite work out as the franchise’s main guy, he carried himself like a champ. Here’s hoping whatever team picks him up next knows how to utilize his strengths!
Saquon Barkley Eases the Load
Speaking of running backs, how about the Philadelphia Eagles? They’ve struck gold with Saquon Barkley. He’s taking the pressure off quarterback Jalen Hurts, allowing him to thrive without always risking his health. Having a guy like Barkley is a huge boon, as he helps balance out the offense, extending Hurts’ career in the long run.
Commanders’ Bright Future
The Washington Commanders are sitting pretty with a whopping $104 to $130 million in cap space next offseason. That could mean a lot of moves to shore up their offensive line and snag some high-quality talent around rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. They need to keep building that roster, especially with some older faces on the depth chart that could use replacing.
New Beginnings in Chicago
While it’s a bummer to see a coaching change, the Chicago Bears made a tough call that could save rookie quarterback Caleb Williams’ season. The change comes at a crucial time, giving Williams a new offensive coordinator who’s all about boosting confidence. It’s all about helping him tap into that skill set we know he has and moving forward without the pressure of an old regime looming over him.
Revamping the Rams
Over in Los Angeles, the Rams have got their eyes set high after trading Jared Goff a while back. They’ve surrounded him with some serious talent – think offensive tackles, wide receivers, and tight ends that can make a real difference on game day. It’s paying off big time, and you can see that reflected in their successes this season.
A Fresh Start for Jordan Love
In Green Bay, Jordan Love is finally getting his chance to shine thanks to Aaron Rodgers moving on to the New York Jets. This was a big shift that could have set both players’ futures on different paths. Luckily for Love, he got a two-year extension, meaning the team believes he can be the guy to lead them into the future.
Thank Goodness for Sam Darnold
Another refreshing story comes from Sam Darnold finding a solid backup role. After a rocky stint in Carolina, he’s found a home with the 49ers. Working under a mentor like Kyle Shanahan has given him opportunities to resurrect his career and hone his skills alongside talented players in the offense.
Kirk Cousins’ Crucial Bye Week
Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons are hoping for a turnaround with Kirk Cousins. His recent performances have raised eyebrows, so the team’s bye week is coming at just the right time. Let’s see if this break helps him bounce back against some tough competitors in the upcoming weeks!
Bright Futures and Tough Decisions
As we check in on other quarterbacks like Bryce Young and Kyler Murray, there’s hope on the horizon. Young is regaining confidence after a shaky start, while Murray is showing signs of durability that fans have been eagerly watching for!
Conclusion
This Thanksgiving, let’s cherish the growth and resilience shown by quarterbacks across the NFC. From new beginnings to hopeful comebacks, there’s a lot to be thankful for as the season unfolds. Grab that turkey leg and celebrate the game we love!
