Only one rookie quarterback is set to start in Week 1 this NFL season, yet Rob Gronkowski believes modern NFL rookie quarterbacks are more prepared for immediate action than they were a decade ago.
Gronkowski: Rookies More Prepared Than Ever
Four-time Super Bowl champion Rob Gronkowski credits advancements in college football for the increased readiness of young passers.
“These quarterbacks, I feel like, are ready to go now,” Gronkowski stated. “Back in the day, 10, 15 years ago, they weren’t really given the knowledge that they are given this day in the college ranks of football.“
He noted that rookies begin studying team playbooks almost immediately after being selected in the draft. “These guys are coming right into these NFL organizations, and they’re studying the playbook from day one,” Gronkowski explained. “I feel like college is preparing them more than ever before.“
The Start vs. Sit Debate for NFL Rookie Quarterbacks
Despite this increased preparedness, the league is seeing a trend toward sitting first-year signal-callers. This season’s lone Week 1 rookie starter is a sharp decline from last year, when three rookies started opening day after six quarterbacks were taken in the first 12 picks.
History shows many prominent quarterbacks benefited from sitting, including Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Jalen Hurts. The Green Bay Packers notably had Aaron Rodgers sit behind Brett Favre, and later, Jordan Love sat behind Rodgers.
Last season, Michael Penix backed up Kirk Cousins while Drake Maye learned behind Jacoby Brissett.
Veteran QB Impact on Jaxson Dart
Jaxson Dart, the second quarterback taken in this year’s draft at pick No. 25, is a prime example of the development model. Gronkowski believes the Jaxson Dart Russell Wilson mentorship will prove beneficial. “This one’s a little bit different, because he’s behind a veteran,” Gronkowski said.
“And when you’re behind a veteran, it can actually be more impactful for you longer term in your career, because you can learn from Russell Wilson.“
Gronkowski predicts Dart will not see significant playing time this year but will gain valuable experience. “Jaxson Dart has a bright future, but you just gotta pump the brakes on him playing this year,” he said. “He’s going to learn a lot under [head coach Brian] Daboll and being behind Russell Wilson.“
