We are now approaching the end of the NFL offseason, with training camps set to start in a few weeks. While most teams have established their key players for the upcoming season, there are still some uncertainties, particularly regarding the starting quarterback position for certain teams. Several teams have open or potential quarterback competitions, and sportsbooks in Las Vegas have weighed in with their predictions.
According to DraftKings sportsbook, here are the odds for the quarterback competitions in Denver, Las Vegas, Minnesota, New England, New York (Giants), Pittsburgh, and Seattle:
Denver Broncos:
– Bo Nix: -400 (80%)
– Zach Wilson: +450 (18%)
– Jarrett Stidham: +650 (13%)
The favorite to start for the Broncos is Bo Nix, given the investment the team has made in the rookie quarterback. Zach Wilson and Jarrett Stidham are also in the running, but Nix seems to have the edge.
Las Vegas Raiders:
– Gardner Minshew: -200 (67%)
– Aidan O’Connell: +150 (40%)
Despite Minshew being the favorite, there is speculation that O’Connell might have a shot at the starting position, especially considering the Raiders’ long-term quarterback situation.
Minnesota Vikings:
– Sam Darnold: -300 (75%)
– J.J. McCarthy: +220 (31%)
The Vikings seem to be leaning towards starting Sam Darnold, although McCarthy was drafted with potential long-term plans in mind. Darnold’s performance will likely determine how long he keeps the starting role.
New England Patriots:
– Jacoby Brissett: -260 (72%)
– Drake Maye: +200 (33%)
The Patriots are expected to start Jacoby Brissett, with Drake Maye waiting in the wings. Brissett’s experience gives him the upper hand heading into the season.
New York Giants:
– Daniel Jones: -425 (81%)
– Drew Lock: +275 (27%)
Despite initial speculation of a quarterback competition, Daniel Jones is expected to retain his starting role for the Giants, especially with Drew Lock declaring himself as the backup.
Pittsburgh Steelers:
– Russell Wilson: -750 (88%)
– Justin Fields: +450 (18%)
The Steelers are likely to start Russell Wilson, even though he may not be a long-term solution for the team. Wilson’s experience and track record make him the frontrunner for the starting role.
Seattle Seahawks:
– Geno Smith: -700 (87%)
– Sam Howell: +450 (18%)
Geno Smith is favored to start for the Seahawks, with the team banking on his potential to bounce back from a tough season. Sam Howell will likely need to prove himself further to secure the starting position.
As training camps approach, these odds provide a glimpse into the potential quarterback battles that could unfold in the upcoming NFL season. While the sportsbooks’ predictions offer some insight, the final decisions will ultimately be made by the teams’ coaching staff based on performance and readiness.