Legendary sports agent Leigh Steinberg has voiced concern over NFL teams lacking multiple backup quarterback options. As of Week 3, five starting quarterbacks have already sustained injuries. Notably, New York Giants’ star Jaxson Dart is out for the rest of the season. Steinberg considers having multiple quarterbacks crucial for teams to safeguard their Super Bowl prospects.
During a recent interview with OutKick, Steinberg noted, It’s a real issue. Teams without three quarterbacks risk mishaps, as starting quarterbacks are likely to get hurt at some stage.
The Giants, having only Dart and backup Jameis Winston, highlight this issue. Should Winston become injured as well, they would face a quarterback shortage on their roster.
The challenge stems from ballooning starter salaries clashing with salary cap restrictions, complicating investment in backup quarterbacks. Steinberg warned that insufficient backup planning intensifies the risk.
He also pointed to stronger defensive players posing a threat to quarterbacks. Despite rules designed to protect them, such as a 2018 rule against defenders landing with full body weight, injuries remain common.
Beyond impacting individual teams, Steinberg highlighted quarterback injuries as a broader concern for the NFL. Quarterbacks, akin to cultural icons, influence viewership, and their absence can hit ratings.
Steinberg acknowledged the league’s increased protective measures. Yet, he noted fans might not see these influences due to persistent injuries. Despite criticism from purists, he supports vigorous safety protocols while preserving the game’s competitive nature.
With a career filled with high-profile clients like Steve Young and Ben Roethlisberger, Steinberg’s insights are backed by experience. His call to action urges teams to bolster their quarterback rosters to navigate ongoing injury risks effectively.
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