And there's a real likelihood that three of the four quarterbacks drafted in the first round will be opening day starters. Cleveland hasn't given the job to Brandon Weeden yet, but that's likely a formality. The only one who might not start? Ryan Tannehill in Miami. By season's end, it's hard to imagine all four aren't starting (barring injuries).
Of the four first-round quarterbacks in 2011, only Cam Newton started every game. But Blaine Gabbert was starting by Week 3; Christian Ponder by Week 7. Andy Dalton, a second-round pick, started every game. Only Jake Locker failed to start.
Meanwhile, here are some quarterbacks who did not start right away: Eli Manning (Week 11), Philip Rivers (not until his third season thanks to Drew Brees' presence), Donovan McNabb (Week 10) and Michael Vick (two starts). What does it mean? There's no perfect way to groom a quarterback.
- John Keim
