NFL QB Stock Report, Week 5: Concerns Mount for Bryce Young as Others Rise
Baltimore, MD – Week 5 of the NFL season delivered a stark contrast in quarterback narratives, with rising performances from some rookies and veterans overshadowed by growing concerns surrounding Carolina Panthers’ first-overall pick, Bryce Young. Simultaneously occurring, the injury to Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens sparked a conversation about the value of quarterback depth and long-term development.
The Indianapolis Colts, despite a promising start to the season, stumbled in a loss to the Los Angeles Rams, a game where opportunities were squandered. While Anthony richardson wasn’t directly at fault for critical errors – Adonai Mitchell inexplicably fumbled through the end zone, costing a touchdown, and a late hold negated a jonathan Taylor touchdown – the Colts failed to capitalize on a favorable situation, highlighting areas for advancement.
Perhaps the most intriguing storyline emerged from Baltimore, where Jackson exited the team’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs with a hamstring injury. This absence brought into focus the potential role Shedeur Sanders could have played,had his draft preferences been different. Sanders reportedly communicated to the Ravens during the April NFL Draft that he preferred to be selected elsewhere, according to his father, Deion Sanders, on the Kelce brothers’ “New Heights” podcast. Sanders’ reasoning centered on avoiding a long-term backup role behind Jackson.
However, that strategy has left him as the Browns’ third-string quarterback, behind john Flacco and Dillon Gabriel, after being selected in the fifth round. While Flacco’s struggles and the potential for Gabriel to falter could open a door for Sanders later in the season, he remains behind on the depth chart. The Browns, led by two-time NFL Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski, have a history of quarterback development challenges.
The Jackson injury underscores the importance of quality quarterback depth.Jackson has missed 12 games due to injury between 2020 and 2023, and his playing style leaves him vulnerable. The Ravens have previously supported backups like Tyler Huntley effectively during Jackson’s absences, suggesting Sanders would have had resources available to him. A successful stint in Baltimore could have even positioned Sanders for a trade to a team seeking a starting quarterback.
The situation serves as a cautionary tale: quarterbacks should carefully consider the long-term benefits of development within a respected organization, rather than prioritizing a perhaps quicker, but ultimately less secure, path to playing time.
(Photo: Evan Bernstein / Getty Images)
