Last year the NFL saw numerous rookie quarterbacks step into the NFL and start off the first snap. And then we saw a few take a bit to get their shot at taking over a team.

Of course we had some astonishing breakout rookies at the field marshal position, top man, of course, “super man,” Cam Newton, who was nothing short of awesome. Throwing for 4051 yards, 21 TDs, and amazing 60 % passing completion and even more remarkable is the fact he ran for 14 TDs on the ground, with 706 rushing yards. Certainly not your typical QB numbers in any sense of the word.

Andy Dalton, from the Bengals, had a modest breakout season, with over 3300 yards in the air, a top 20 QB rating of 80.4, and a sturdy 20 TDs to only 13 picks. Dalton played tough against the Ravens even in their 2 losses to them, but he showed he can lead his team, bringing his team to a 9-7 record, a 5 game improvement from the year before.

Blaine Gabbert was a typical rook, in his 1st season, and lacked consistency throughout the year, with only 2 games completing 60% or more passes, including 5 games completing 47% or less. Now he has Justin Blackmon at WR, will immediately be the #1 target, and will likely see 125 or more targets on the year.

Surprise draft pick, Christian Ponder did well in his shot, although making typical rookie errors. The weapons have been added to the meager Vikings, Percy Harvin, who is valued, but not appreciated to the level where I personally feel he should be. Guy has 218 catches, 2625 YDs and 17 receiving TDs in 3 seasons, as well as 587 rushing yards and 3 TDs on the ground, and 4 TDs on returns. He is versatility at its finest. Plus they added Jerome Simpson, who is skilled enough to grab 60-65 balls and bringing in 6+ TDs, after his 3 game suspension is over, he brings the long ball threat.

And then we have Jake Locker, who just a few years ago coming out of Washington, even though he never had “blow me away numbers” he was looked at excellently. Finally got a chance to play, although only in 5 games, and was very conservative. Locker who was stuck without too much at the wide receiver slot to throw to, will have an improved lot to throw to this year, with trouble and injury plagued Kenny Britt, the 6-3 talented WR who frustrates and disappoints many who enjoy the game, based on the fact that he can be so good.

The infamous “sophomore slump” has affected many QBs in their 2nd year, including Vince Young, Rick Mirer, even Chris Chandler, who all had hopeful rookie seasons, and struggled in their 2nd season, some continued to roll down the lonesome hill into oblivion.

Newton, I feel is the real deal, big strong arm, with incredible strength and although his numbers running the ball will likely not be as impressive this year, I think he is a star for years to come. As well as Andy Dalton, even the fact he plays in the tough AFC North, dealing with the Steelers and the Ravens defense. On a good note for him though, is both defenses are getting old, could be a great time for Dalton to take off.

I think Locker will be a decent QB, overall a respectable season at best, I think he is a few years away from being “the leader” in Tennessee, as well as Ponder, I think he has the skills and the brains, but another year, and I think they could both conceivably be 25 TD/ 3300-3600 YD guys.

Written by Mike Anthony of VegasTopDogs.com