“Youngin looking good huh??” Patriots legend Randy Moss’s X (formerly Twitter) comments about Drake Maye might just sum up the 2024 NFL preseason quarterback showdown. But is the hype real, or are we seeing mirages in the August heat?

The 2024 NFL Draft quarterback class strutted onto the preseason stage like peacocks at a beauty pageant. Each rookie signal-caller brought their flavor to the field, leaving fans and pundits alike salivating over their potential. But as the dust settles on the preseason, it’s time to separate the sizzle from the steak.

Let’s break down the performances of our fab four: Drake Maye, Bo Nix, Caleb Williams, and Jayden Daniels. We’ll dive into their stats, memorable moments, and what it all might mean for their NFL futures. But don’t worry, we won’t forget about the other rookie gunslingers making waves.

First, let’s feast our eyes on the numbers:

Maye’s preseason was like a well-cooked steak – not flashy, but satisfying. His 62% completion rate and zero interceptions show a quarterback who values ball security. But don’t mistake caution for timidity. Maye showed flashes of playmaking ability, including a highlight-reel moment where he completed a pass after losing his shoe mid-play.

Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo noticed Maye’s growth, stating on August 25, “I think early on he was trying to defer and be a good teammate. Now he’s competing to be the starting quarterback of the New England Patriots.” This shift in mindset suggests Maye is finding his footing in the professional ranks.

In the Patriots’ preseason finale against the Commanders, Maye stepped up big time. After Jacoby Brissett left with a shoulder injury, Maye led an impressive 88-yard touchdown drive. He completed five of his six passes for 71 yards, capping it off with an 18-yard TD pass to running back Kevin Harris. Talk about making the most of an opportunity!

Bo Nix is the surprise package along with Caleb Williams the gunslinger and Dual Threat Jayden Daniels

If Maye was the steady steak, Nix was the sizzling fajitas. The Broncos rookie lit up the preseason, completing a sizzling 76.7% of his passes. His performance was so impressive that Broncos head coach Sean Payton named him the Week 1 starter on August 22, making him Denver’s first rookie starting quarterback since John Elway in 1983.

Nix’s poise in the pocket caught everyone’s eye. After the Broncos’ preseason game against the Packers, Nix said, “I think it’s a really good fit. Especially [Sunday], I came out here and was very comfortable with the first few plays that were called.” That comfort level showed in his stats and decision-making.

But here’s the kicker: Nix posted the second-highest passer rating in the NFL among qualified quarterbacks in the preseason, behind only Mac Jones. Talk about making a splash!

On the other hand Caleb, Williams brought the fireworks to Chicago, averaging a whopping 8.5 yards per attempt. While his completion percentage was lower than his peers, his ability to create big plays was evident. Bears head coach Matt Eberflus praised Williams’ growth, particularly in his pre-snap process.

One of Williams’ standout moments came against the Bills, where he executed a play-action bootleg, complete with a nasty pump fake, before zipping a 26-yard pass to tight end Cole Kmet. It’s plays like these that have Bears fans dreaming of a bright future.

Williams’ off-platform throws were a sight to behold. Against the Bills, he made a 26-yard completion to Kmet while on the run, showcasing his ability to create plays when the pocket breaks down. The Bears were so impressed with Williams’ preseason performance that they decided he doesn’t need any more live reps and will sit out the final preseason game. Talk about a vote of confidence!

Daniels might have had the most efficient preseason of all, completing 80% of his passes and showcasing his dual-threat abilities. His 42-yard hookup with Dyami Brown in his first game showed off his arm strength, while his rushing touchdown demonstrated his ground game threat.

Commanders head coach Dan Quinn was so impressed that he named Daniels the team’s starter on August 23, opting to sit him for the final preseason game to avoid injury risk. One scout even compared Daniels to “Kyler Murray Part II for Kliff Kingsbury, only bigger in size and arm.” High praise indeed!

While our fab four stole the headlines, other rookie QBs made some noise too. J.J. McCarthy, the 10th overall pick, had a stellar debut for the Vikings, going 11-of-17 for 188 yards with 2 TDs and 1 INT. Michael Penix Jr., the 8th overall pick, showed flashes for the Falcons, going 9-of-16 for 104 yards. Even late-round picks like Spencer Rattler (Saints) and Michael Pratt (Packers) had their moments in the sun.

As we look ahead to the regular season, each of these young quarterbacks has shown promise in their way. Maye’s steady hand, Nix’s efficiency, Williams’ big-play ability, and Daniels’ dual-threat skills all hint at exciting rookie campaigns.

However, here’s an interesting nugget; four rookies could start the Season 1 matches in case Brissett is not ready for the Patriots’ season opener and Maye gets to chip in. That’s quite a few new guys at the helm!

Every NFL aficionado understands that preseason performance is only one component of success in the NFL. The real test begins once game stats are recorded. Will these young quarterbacks continue to cook or will they get burned in the NFL pressure cooker?