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How we'd rank 2019 QB class: One first-rounder, several questions

A year removed from one of the deepest quarterback classes in recent draft history, the 2019 NFL draft lacks established high-end talent at the position, and there are questions at the top.

Oregon's Justin Herbert has the best combination of NFL-level production and overall skill set, but the junior could still return to Eugene next season. If that is the case, it's a wide-open race to find the top signal-caller to come off the board, as the class is filled with signal-callers who appear to be lacking in at least one significant area.

Let's rank the top 10 draft-eligible quarterbacks right now, using Pro Football Focus' grades as well as what we know about how the NFL evaluates prospects.


First round

1. Justin Herbert, Oregon

Junior | 6-foot-6, 233 pounds | 23 career starts

2018 stats through Nov. 1: 155-of-260 passing (59.6 percent) for 2,069 yards, with 20 TDs, 6 INTs; 2 rushing TDs; 77.4 Total QBR (No. 20 in FBS)

PFF grade: 80.8

Herbert has everything scouts will be looking for, from his 6-6 frame to his strong arm to his impressive athleticism. He can drive the ball accurately up the seam, and he has been accurate throwing down the field, as he is tied for ninth in the nation in big-time throw percentage at 6.5 (big-time throws are PFF's highest-graded throws as timing, accuracy and level of difficulty separate them from regular throws).

While Herbert appears to be the best option in a weak crop, he has struggled at times this season, particularly on the road last week against Arizona. Plus, Herbert might prefer to play one more season at Oregon, and that looming decision could make a questionable group even weaker.


Day 2