Leftwich: Next Stud?

Coming into his third NFL season, Jacksonville starting quarterback, Bryon Leftwich has done everything you can expect out a 25 year-old quarterback in the NFL. In just his second season he lead his Jaguars to a 9-7 mark by throwing for 2,941 yards, 15 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions in 14 games. While the numbers are not eye-popping fantasy numbers, they are top numbers considering his experience. Compare that to such studs as Donovan McNabb. In his second year he threw for 3,365 yards, 21 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in 16 games. That is an average of 210 yards a game and a QB rating of 77.8. Leftwich averaged 210 yards a game with a QB rating of 82.2.

So what is Leftwich capable of? Don't expect Manning or Culpepper like numbers, he is no Manning and doesn't have the speed of Culpepper, but he doesn't make mistakes and has a strong-accurate arm. Add that to a healthy Jimmy Smith, a 2nd-year WR Reggie Williams and a #1 draft pick tight end, Matt Jones, plus a new west coast style offense and you have the possibility of Leftwich becoming a top 3 to 5 QB.

If healthy, Leftwich is capable of throwing for 3500-4000 yards and around 25 touchdowns. Those numbers would rank him right in the group under Culpepper and Manning with the Tom Bradys, Drew Brees, Brett Farves, Jake Delhomme and others. The difference is Leftwich has much more of an upside and he should be available after those quarterbacks in the draft. Bryon Leftwich could be the new Fantasy quarterback stud.