So the season is drawing closer, and our 2020 season projections are done- so let’s start with QBs that will exceed expectations. If you want to have a go at making your own projections then you can have a go by using our projections workbook. Otherwise- let’s get stuck in!
2020 Season Projections: QBs That Will Exceed Expectations
Aaron Rodgers (GB, KFS Rank: 7 ECR: 13)
This might be the Packers fan in me, but I think last season was a fluke- on a few counts. As a result, there will a return for the Packers QB.
The Case For
Last season was the first year that Rodgers had to learn a new playbook since he was in the league. While he is an obvious elite talent, that can’t be misjudged.
Equally, we have seen that Rodgers is uber-efficient when he has the ball in his hands. Infact, his passing TD rate was significantly below his career average. Even if you think that he is on the decline, even a modest bump back to his career average would mean more touchdowns.
The Case Against
The case against can be found anywhere you look. The team has moved to a run-first offense, there aren’t any pass catchers outside of Davante Adams. The list goes on.
Overall
Overall, I think that Rodgers is a decent value with where he is going in drafts. The concerns are baked into the price at the moment. Meaning you are buying him at his floor (which we saw last season)- but his ceiling could win you your league.
Cam Newton (NE, KFS Rank: 8 ECR: 16)
Newton made the move that alot of people expected, heading up the New England Patriots offense. As a result, I’m sure his ECR will rise, but for the time being- he deserves to be on this list.
The Case For
Newton is the ultimate cheat code when it comes to fantasy football- a rushing QB. He might not be the spring chicken he was when he led the Carolina Panthers to the SuperBowl, but he can still use his legs to move the ball.
The Patriots also have a number of weapons on offense that he can use. For me, the one that had the biggest bump with his signing was N’Keal Harry. I’m expecting Harry to be used much the same way as Newton used Devin Funchess- a big body to use in the end zone.
The Case Against
The New England Patriots haven’t had a real change of QB in years (as long as quite a few fans have followed the sport). In particular, we’ve not seen how a mobile QB would fit into this offense.
There is also the fact that Newton has to learn a new offense, at a time where teams have had a very strange offseason. It’s not ideal preparation, and with Newton missing nearly all of last season, there could be significant rust to shake off.
Overall
Newton has QB1 upside, but with a dramatically reduced cost. That might change by the end of draft season, but currently he is a fantastic value in drafts. I’d be happy to even consider him as my streamer to start the season. If he ends up not being the starter for the opening few weeks, then you can cut bait as you didn’t make a significant investment.
Joe Burrow (CIN, KFS Rank: 10 ECR: 20)
The first pick in the draft wasn’t a shock at all- the Bengals held the top pick and felt an upgrade at QB was needed to kickstart the rebuilding project.
The Case For
Let’s be honest Burrow has fallen into a situation that’s unusual for a top rookie QB talent. Burrow has found himself going to a team that is surrounded by talent. An effective running back, and a number of great receivers.
The Case Against
Burrow is still a rookie, and while it’s highly likely he knew he was going to be selected to the Bengals, he is still going to make mistakes. The offensive line is still not one of the stronger units, which could put a lot of pressure on Burrow. Equally, if things start to go badly for the team he doesn’t have the experience in the league to steer things in the same way as a veteran.
Overall
Overall, Burrow has shown the ability in college to move the ball downfield. He also has enough weapons around him to be fantasy relevant. At the cost, he is worth a flyer- he certainly has the ability to be a league winner.
2020 Season Projections: QBs That Will Exceed Expectations
So that’s it! Certainly this season there seems to be even more options than there have been in previous seasons- albeit with varying risk levels. What do you think? Let us know if you disagree! You can find us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Image Credit: Rich Graessle- ICON Sportswire
