AFC Notes: Trevor Lawrence's ranking drop and CJ Stroud's rise

The latest NFL quarterback tier rankings show a significant decline for Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence, who dropped seven spots to a lower category, reflecting criticism of his consistency and command in crucial moments. In contrast, second-year Texans QB CJ Stroud received praise for his style of play and drew comparisons to Joe Burrow, although there are doubts about his performance in high-stakes games. Meanwhile, Titans HC Brian Callahan emphasized the team's dual focus on winning in developing its roster, underscoring the competitive dynamic within the AFC South.

In numbers

• Trevor Lawrence dropped seven spots in the NFL quarterback tier rankings, recording the biggest drop in 2024.
• CJ Stroud was considered a second-tier quarterback, and some coaches predicted he could move up to a tier one with the right performance.

Yes but

While Lawrence's decline raises concerns about his future, some analysts argue he still has the talent to improve his game. Conversely, Stroud faces pressure to prove himself in playoff-like scenarios, which could affect the perception of his elite status in the league.

Current status

• The Jaguars are keeping an eye on their playmaking ability and whether Lawrence can improve his game despite previous injuries.
• The Texans are optimistic about Stroud's potential, but are cautious in assessing his performance in such a competitive league.
• The Titans are focused on building a winning culture while developing young talent like QB Will Levis and LB Ernest Jones.

What's next

The coming weeks will be crucial for Lawrence and Stroud as they face high-pressure games that could define their careers, and observers will be watching closely to see how their performances affect the perception of teammates and coaches around the league.

Conclusion

The AFC South is in a state of flux. Up-and-coming talents like Stroud are gaining prominence, while established quarterbacks like Lawrence have crucial seasons ahead of them. Their developments could redefine the division's competitive landscape and influence the long-term direction of the franchise.