Why Are All the Quarterbacks Bad Now?

So I have a stupidly simple theory on why quarterback play has glaringly declined in recent years. Patrick Mahomes, the league’s best quarterback, is an illustrative example. Few would dispute he’s still great, and at age 28, he’s theoretically square in his prime. In 2017, Mahomes’ first full season as a starter, he threw for an astounding 5,097 yards (in 16 games), 50 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Last season, which ended in Mahomes winning Super Bowl MVP, he claimed 4183 yards, 27 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. Much was made of the Chiefs’ lack of offensive weapons last year, which they sought to upgrade this offseason. So far, through two games in which Kansas City narrowly won, Mahomes’ production remains well off his customary standard (221 yards per game, 46.7 QBR).