The 2024 NFL Draft has concluded, notable as only the fourth in NFL history to see three quarterbacks taken with the first three picks. The Chicago Bears selected Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick, followed by the Washington Commanders picking LSU’s Jayden Daniels at No. 2, and then the New England Patriots choosing North Carolina’s Drake Maye at No. 3.
These rookies are poised to make significant impacts from day one. From reshaping offensive strategies to leading locker rooms and energizing fan bases, each quarterback brings unique contributions to their respective franchises, setting the stage for long-term success. This article explores the impact of how Williams, Daniels, and Maye can transform their teams in their NFL careers.
Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears
Caleb Williams brings high aspirations and undeniable talent to the Bears, aiming to revolutionize a franchise that has struggled to find consistent success at the quarterback position. Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Williams boasts an impressive college career with 93 touchdown passes and 27 rushing scores during his time at Oklahoma and USC. The Bears, notorious for never having a quarterback throw for 4,000 yards or 30 touchdowns in a season, now look to Williams to break this trend.
Chicago’s history with first-round quarterbacks has been rocky, with Mitch Trubisky and Justin Fields both failing to secure long-term success. However, Williams, at 22, is poised to change that narrative. He has expressed ambitions of a long career with the Bears and aims to “chase Tom Brady’s record” of seven Super Bowl titles. The franchise, which has only one Super Bowl win from the 1985 season, is in desperate need of a transformative leader.
Selected as the top quarterback in a draft class rich with talent, including Daniels, Maye, and J.J. McCarthy, Williams stood out as the clear choice for Chicago. The Bears’ commitment to him was evident as they bypassed meetings with other quarterbacks, and Williams reciprocated by focusing solely on the Bears. Tasked with ending years of futility and leading the team to new heights, Williams is set to be the cornerstone of the Bears’ future success.
Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders
Jayden Daniels brings immense promise to the Commanders, who are set to break an NFL record by starting a different quarterback in Week 1 for the eighth consecutive season. At 23, Daniels arrives with a stellar five-season career at Arizona State and LSU, leading the nation in total offense last season with 4,946 yards.
The Commanders have faced a persistent struggle with quarterback stability, starting 35 different players since their last Super Bowl victory in 1991, including eight in the past four years. This ongoing instability has resulted in just three playoff wins since that championship season. Daniels presents a potential remedy with his ability to improvise and remain composed under pressure —qualities that have been missing from the Commanders’ roster for far too long.
The Commanders hope Daniels can end their quarterback chaos and become a steady presence for years to come, transforming their offense and bringing stability to a franchise in desperate need of a long-term leader.
Drake Maye, New England Patriots
Drake Maye brings significant potential to the New England Patriots, who selected him No. 3 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Unlike Williams and Daniels, Maye is not guaranteed the starting quarterback role from the outset and will compete with veteran Jacoby Brissett for the position. The Patriots have made it clear that they intend to develop him carefully, avoiding the pressure to play him prematurely.
Maye was the youngest of the top three quarterbacks drafted this year at just 21 years old. Over three seasons, he started 26 games, threw 63 touchdowns to 16 interceptions, and earned ACC Player of the Year honors in 2022.
New England, sticking to their plan on draft night, chose Maye to be the face of their franchise. Their commitment to his gradual development reflects their confidence in his abilities and potential. Tasked with the challenge of competing for the starting job and eventually leading the team, Maye is set to be a cornerstone of the Patriots’ future success.
