Evaluating NFL Quarterback Situations from Wild Card Weekend: The Steelers Require Another Reset, While the Commanders and Ravens Possess Magic
The Wild Card Weekend of the 2024 NFL playoffs featured some dramatic quarterback performances, setting the stage for both immediate decisions and long-term strategies. As we look back on these games, we can assess the quarterback situations for several teams. Among the most notable teams are the Pittsburgh Steelers, Washington Commanders, and Baltimore Ravens. While these teams all entered the playoffs with different levels of expectation and circumstance, they share one commonality: their quarterbacks were pivotal to their playoff fates. In the case of the Steelers, a reset seems necessary, while the Commanders and Ravens may have found something special.
The Steelers’ Need for a Quarterback Reset
The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2024 playoffs with a young, developing quarterback in Kenny Pickett. A first-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Pickett showed flashes of promise during the regular season but lacked the consistency expected from a franchise quarterback. The wildcard loss, which saw the Steelers eliminated, was a microcosm of his season: moments of brilliance were overshadowed by untimely mistakes and struggles with accuracy.
Inconsistent Performance
Pickett’s performance in the Wild Card round highlighted his inability to capitalize on critical moments. The Steelers were facing a formidable defense, but Pickett failed to display the kind of decisiveness and playmaking ability needed to win on the big stage. His numbers weren’t disastrous, but his inability to drive the offense down the field consistently — particularly in key third-down situations — left the team’s defense and running game to bear too much of the burden.
This isn’t to say that Pickett doesn’t have potential. His pocket presence, mobility, and ability to avoid pressure are promising traits for a young quarterback. However, his development seems to have stalled at times, especially in terms of reading defenses and making the necessary adjustments. His decision-making was often a step behind, and his downfield accuracy was notably inconsistent.
The Need for a Reset
The Steelers’ front office now faces a crucial crossroads. While there’s a natural inclination to give a young quarterback time to develop, Pickett’s shortcomings in critical moments — especially when the game is on the line — might require a reassessment of the long-term plan. This Wild Card loss could be a signal that Pickett, while talented, needs more time to develop or that Pittsburgh needs to explore options for bringing in a veteran presence, at least for the short term.
The Steelers’ offensive line has struggled with consistency over the years, and a lack of support can often stunt a quarterback’s growth. But even with that context, Pickett’s ability to elevate those around him is still in question. Pittsburgh could very well opt to stick with him as their starter and focus on improving the team around him. However, with other teams quickly solidifying their quarterback positions, there might be an urge to consider a more established quarterback in free agency or via trade if one becomes available.
The Steelers are no strangers to success with a veteran quarterback — Ben Roethlisberger led the team to two Super Bowl championships. While it is unlikely Pittsburgh will find a direct replacement for Roethlisberger, the organization could look for a player who offers steadiness and leadership to help guide the young offense forward.
The Commanders’ Magical Quarterback Situation
The Washington Commanders, on the other hand, found themselves in a completely different position heading into the playoffs. After a tumultuous quarterback situation that saw multiple players take the helm in previous seasons, they appeared to have finally hit on something special with Sam Howell.
The Emergence of Sam Howell
Howell’s performance during the regular season earned him the starting job, but his play in the Wild Card weekend was a revelation. In a high-stakes playoff game, Howell showed poise, accuracy, and leadership, all qualities that had been in question when he was first drafted as a fifth-round pick in 2022. Despite his inexperience, Howell displayed a calmness in the pocket that belied his years, making quick decisions and moving the offense with precision. His ability to make pinpoint throws, especially under pressure, made Washington’s offense look cohesive and effective.
More importantly, Howell’s play in the Wild Card game showed his ability to perform on the big stage. He didn’t shy away from the challenge; instead, he embraced it. His deep-ball accuracy and ability to read defenses were exceptional for a young quarterback in such an environment. Washington may have just found its franchise quarterback in Howell, and his continued development could position the Commanders as a force in the NFC.
The Commanders’ Future at Quarterback
For the Commanders, Howell’s breakout performance is a validation of their decision to give him the starting job. His poise, arm strength, and ability to make key throws in critical moments should provide the team with a sense of stability at the quarterback position that they haven’t had in years. The team can now focus on building around him, improving the offensive line and skill positions, while developing his game further. Washington could have a quarterback who can lead them deep into the playoffs for years to come.
What makes Howell’s story even more remarkable is how far he’s come since entering the league. As a fifth-round draft pick, many analysts didn’t see Howell as a starter-caliber quarterback, let alone someone who could deliver playoff-caliber performances. His rise to prominence reflects not only his talent but also the Commanders’ ability to identify a quarterback capable of succeeding in their system.
While it’s still early in Howell’s career, the fact that he can lead Washington to the playoffs in just his first full year as a starter is a testament to his growth and the confidence the team has in him. If Howell continues to progress and the Commanders can surround him with the necessary talent, the sky could be the limit.
The Ravens and Lamar Jackson’s Continued Magic
The Baltimore Ravens entered Wild Card Weekend with a proven quarterback in Lamar Jackson, who had already won an MVP and led the team to multiple playoff berths. Jackson’s dynamic playmaking ability has always been his calling card, and his performance during the playoffs once again confirmed that when healthy, he is one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league.
Lamar Jackson’s Playoff Magic
In the Wild Card round, Jackson delivered a performance that was equal parts poise, precision, and magic. He made critical plays both with his arm and his legs, showcasing the kind of dual-threat ability that makes him nearly impossible to defend. His deep throws were on point, and his ability to escape pressure and make plays on the move was as electrifying as ever.
While Jackson’s playoff performances have sometimes been scrutinized — particularly in years when the Ravens fell short of expectations — this year felt different. He had a renewed focus, and his leadership was evident on the field. The Ravens’ offense, while still a work in progress, looked far more dangerous with Jackson orchestrating the plays.
Lamar’s Long-Term Future with the Ravens
For Baltimore, the question now is whether Jackson can continue this level of performance and lead the team to a Super Bowl. The Ravens have always been built around a dominant defense and a strong running game, but they’ve struggled at times to maintain a high-powered passing attack. Jackson’s ability to carry the offense on his back — particularly in high-leverage moments — sets him apart from many of his contemporaries. If Baltimore can continue to provide him with the necessary weapons and maintain offensive balance, Jackson could very well lead the team to another championship.
Moreover, the Ravens now have more stability at the quarterback position than ever before, and that bodes well for their future. Jackson’s new contract and commitment to the Ravens ensure that this era of Baltimore football will be centered around him for the foreseeable future. Given the growing cohesion between Jackson and the Ravens’ coaching staff, the team is poised to contend for Super Bowls in the coming years.
