Overview of the 2019 QB Class
The 2019 NFL draft featured several talented quarterbacks, with the top pick being Joe Burrow, selected by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall. Burrow stood out for his strong arm, accuracy, and pocket poise from LSU. However, other quarterbacks such as Josh Allen, Kyler Murray, and Tua Tagovailoa were also considered elite prospects. This profile examines the metrics, combine performance, and pre-draft evaluations to determine which quarterback was the best available in the 2019 draft class.
Primary Candidate Evaluation
Joe Burrow is widely recognized as the best quarterback from the 2019 draft based on college production, measurables, and draft positioning. His 2018 season with LSU included a 36.5 completion percentage, 47 touchdown passes, and a 161.1 quarterback rating. Scouts praised his leadership, decision-making, and ability to manage complex offensive schemes. Although other QBs showed high ceilings, Burrow's combination of skill, consistency, and top billing in the draft establishes him as the class standout.
Pre-Draft Metrics and Combine Performance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| 40-Yard Dash (10-yard split) | 4.68 seconds (1.58 seconds) | NFL Combine |
| Vertical Jump | 31.5 inches | NFL Combine |
| Broad Jump | 9 feet 3 inches | NFL Combine |
| Short Shuttle | 4.16 seconds | NFL Combine |
| Three-Cone Drill | 6.83 seconds | NFL Combine |
Post-Draft Development and Career Trajectory
Since entering the league, Joe Burrow has continued to develop into one of the league's premier quarterbacks. His rookie year in 2020 was highlighted by a dramatic late-season collapse, but he rebounded in 2021 to lead the Bengals to a division title and an MVP runner-up finish. His progression in offensive complexity, clutch performance, and leadership has solidified his reputation as the top quarterback from the 2019 draft class.
Notable Career Milestones
- 2021: Led Cincinnati to an AFC North division title
- 2021: Finished second in MVP voting
- 2022: Signed a contract extension through 2027
- 2023: Led the Bengals to Super Bowl LVI
Comparative Analysis of Top 2019 QB Prospects
While Joe Burrow is recognized as the most successful, it is useful to compare other top prospects from the same draft class to contextualize his standing.
| Quarterback | Draft Position | College | 2023 Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Burrow | #1 | LSU | Starting QB, Super Bowl participant |
| Josh Allen | #7 | Wyoming | Starting QB, playoff appearances |
| Kyler Murray | #1 | Oklahoma | Starting QB, division winner |
| Tua Tagovailoa | #5 | Alabama | Starting QB, franchise player |
Defining the Best: Criteria and Context
Evaluating the "best" quarterback from a draft class involves multiple dimensions: college performance, measurables, draft positioning, and subsequent professional development. Joe Burrow excels across these categories, having been drafted first overall, demonstrating elite college production, and translating his skill set effectively to the NFL. While other quarterbacks from the 2019 class have achieved significant success, Burrow's combination of foundational accolades and sustained performance supports his identification as the top prospect of the class.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which quarterback was drafted first in 2019?
Joe Burrow was selected first overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2019 NFL draft.
Did any other 2019 quarterback become a starter?
Yes, Kyler Murray, Josh Allen, and Tua Tagovailoa all became starting quarterbacks in the NFL after the 2019 draft.
How does Joe Burrow's 2019 draft class compare to others?
The 2019 quarterback class is regarded as one of the strongest in recent memory, with multiple franchise-caliber talents entering the league at once.