Quarterback Power Rankings 2013: Bottom Tier QB's

Based on my knowledge and research, I will rank all 32 starting quarterbacks. I will start with the bottom tier quarterbacks of the power rankings.

27.      Carson Palmer, Arizona Cardinals

Palmer had a surprisingly efficient season last year with the woeful Oakland Raiders, tossing 22 touchdown passes with just 14 interceptions. Alas, Palmer has been an interception waiting to happen for most of his career. He struggled in his first year with the Bengals (18 interceptions, albeit a rookie) and Raiders (16 interceptions in 10 games played), so expect Palmer to post less than impressive numbers in his inaugural season in Arizona.

28.      Mark Sanchez, New York Jets

Sanchez led the Jets to the AFC Championship in each of his first two seasons (2009-2010) in the NFL. But Sanchez has regressed mightily the past two years. Because of his inaccuracies, he can only be a system quarterback at best. However, his dreadful decision-making eliminates any chance of him being a mid-level starting quarterback. Sanchez was a turnover-machine last year (18 interceptions, 2 fumbles lost) and there is no reason to believe he will turn his career around.

29.      Jake Locker, Tennessee Titans

Locker failed in his first year as a starting quarterback last season. The third-year QB has a strong arm and can make plays as a runner. Yet, he is horrific at throwing on the run as his sporadic passes often led to trouble (11 interceptions last season). Locker started in 11 games last season and was unable to prove he has what it takes to be a reliable starting quarterback in the NFL.

30.      Kevin Kolb, Buffalo Bills

Kolb’s only chance to succeed in the short term with the Bills hinges on the offensive’s line ability to protect him. Kolb simply can’t function in a crowded pocket and appears scared when pass rushers come near him. (Just ask former Oakland Raiders defensive end Tommy Kelly). Kolb is merely a stopgap, until rookie QB E.J. Manuel is ready to suit up under center.

31.      Matt Flynn, Oakland Raiders

The “One Game Wonder” has yet to prove himself in the league, despite his hefty contract. Flynn has only started three games in his career (most notably in 2010 at New England where he dominated), so there isn’t much to gauge his talent on. He is known for being an accurate passer, but his arm strength is a major question mark.

32.      Blaine Gabbert, Jacksonville Jaguars

Gabbert, the 10^th overall pick in the 2011 Draft, has been the most disappointing player of his draft class. He is timid in the pocket when rushers penetrate. Furthermore, Gabbert appears afraid to make mistakes as his conservative style of play is exemplified by his league worst 5.98 yards per pass attempt. Gabbert may not have the best talent around him, but he needs to prove something to the franchise in his third year in the league, or else he will be replaced by capable back-up Chad Henne.