Sun Oct 26 13:20:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
The article discusses the trend of “second chance” quarterbacks thriving in the NFL this season, highlighting Baker Mayfield, Daniel Jones, Sam Darnold, and Mac Jones. It contrasts their success with the pressure young quarterbacks face, using Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler’s struggles and the team’s potential decision to turn to rookie Tyler Shough as an example. The article emphasizes the importance of patience with young players, citing Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell’s sentiment that organizations often fail quarterbacks before the quarterbacks fail the organization. However, it also acknowledges the business side of the NFL and the need for results, questioning how long teams should wait for potential to develop. Finally, the article suggests that former first-round picks may get more opportunities due to their initial high evaluations, while later-round picks like Rattler and Sam Howell might face steeper challenges.
News Article:
Second Chances Fueling QB Success in NFL; Patience Tested in New Orleans
TAMPA, FL – January 6, 2025 – The NFL is witnessing a resurgence of quarterbacks who once struggled, now thriving in their second, third, or even fourth opportunities. Baker Mayfield, leading MVP candidate and Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback is just one example.
Mayfield’s success this season, with his third team and several coaching changes, is mirrored by the revitalized careers of Daniel Jones (Colts), Sam Darnold (Seahawks), and Mac Jones (49ers). These players, often written off, are proving that quarterback development can take time and the right fit.
This trend is particularly relevant in New Orleans, where Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler is under pressure following a difficult performance. Coach Kellen Moore has affirmed his commitment to Rattler, but the conversation surrounding a potential shift to rookie Tyler Shough highlights the challenge of patience with young quarterbacks.
“This quarterback position, sometimes it takes time,” Moore stated. “They’re going to go through (adversity). This is an awesome opportunity for Spence.”
Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell’s past observation that organizations often fail quarterbacks before the quarterbacks fail the organization still rings true. However, the NFL is also a results-oriented business, raising the question of how long teams should wait for potential to materialize, especially when weighed against acquiring established talent.
The article suggests that the success of “second chance” quarterbacks may be tied to their high draft status, offering them more opportunities than later-round picks like Rattler.
Saints linebacker Demario Davis, who experienced his own career turnaround, underscored the importance of patience, adding, “You never know how it’s going to bloom or blossom…You don’t make it to this level and not be able to play…It’s in there. Why doesn’t it come out?”
Ultimately, the article highlights the delicate balance between patience, potential, and the pressures of the NFL, especially as organizations strive to find their franchise quarterback.
First Piper 