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Ultimately, an NFL quarterback’s success is measured by the number of wins he has throughout his career. Victories are even more impressive if they happen while missing a star wide receiver, running back, or offensive lineman.
The best quarterbacks find ways to will their squad to triumph, even if they are not at full strength. That leadership gives confidence to everyone in the huddle, motivating them to excel.
Getting more wins can lead to playoff appearances, conference championship games, and Super Bowl titles. The quarterbacks on this list have made it to those games, but with varying results. At some point, however, the wins trickled, if not stopped. Be it Father Time or something else, these players are no longer dependable signal callers.
Here are the quarterbacks who might have played their last snap during the 2022 NFL season. The possibility of getting another contract is dwindling as their recent performances indicate it’s time to go. They’ve had their time, but the game will move on without them in pads and uniforms.
Which 5 NFL quarterbacks could be out of the league in ahead of the 2023 season?
5. Joe Flacco
Baltimore Ravens fans were surprised when Joe Flacco became the 18th overall selection in the 2008 NFL Draft. Aside from playing for a small school, Flacco even asked his coach to play baseball because he was not confident about his prospects. But the University of Delaware alumnus brought stability to a position where the Ravens struggled to find long-term solutions.
He became the team’s starting quarterback for 11 seasons, winning Super Bowl XLVII and taking MVP honors. But since then, he has bounced around the league, suiting up for the Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles, and New York Jets (twice). He took over from Zach Wilson in five games in the 2022 season but won only one game. There are better options at quarterback than the 38-year-old Flacco.
4. Josh Johnson
Josh Johnson was also selected in the 2008 draft, 142 spots after Flacco. He’s a journeyman who has suited up for 14 NFL teams in 15 seasons. He also played for the Los Angeles Wildcats for one XFL season. Johnson had his fourth stint with the San Francisco 49ers in 2022 and played two games.
He played in the NFC Championship Game after Brock Purdy suffered an injury but was also checked out due to a concussion.
He finished the game with seven completions for 74 yards. Johnson also appeared in two regular-season games but had only one completion and three rushing yards. Seeing him get another opportunity is challenging, given that he is already 36. Likewise, the 49ers signed Sam Darnold to compete with Purdy and Trey Lance.
3. Chase Daniel
Chase Daniel was a highly-touted quarterback coming out of college after throwing for 12,515 yards and 101 touchdowns as a University of Missouri starter. Unfortunately, the two-time Heisman Trophy finalist went undrafted in 2009. Daniel eventually joined the New Orleans Saints after spending time in the Washington Commanders' practice squad.
He has had a fulfilling career, even though he has only started five games in 14 seasons. Aside from winning Super Bowl XLIV with the Saints, Chase Daniel also has estimated career earnings of $41 million. He appeared in four games for the Los Angeles Chargers last season, throwing for 52 yards and a touchdown. But with Easton Stick being Justin Herbert's backup, Daniel might have seen the end of his playing career.
2. Matt Ryan
Despite his release in March, the 2016 NFL Most Valuable Player will still get $12 million from the Indianapolis Colts. Credit his agent, Tom Condon, for negotiating that caveat into his contract. While he will still receive financial rewards, Matt Ryan faltered in his attempt to lead the Colts to the playoffs.
He has only won four of the 12 regular-season games he started, finishing with 14 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.
If this is the end for Ryan, he has built credentials worthy of consideration for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Aside from being a league MVP, he was an Offensive Player of the Year and Offensive Rookie of the Year awardee. Ryan also has one All-Pro distinction and four Pro Bowl selections. He must accept a backup role to keep getting game checks.
1. Carson Wentz
Ironically, Wentz was the Colts’ starting quarterback before Ryan. The Commanders traded for him, hoping to get a quarterback who showed more promise earlier in his NFL career. But he ended up starting seven games, winning only two. Head coach Ron Rivera named him the starter in their must-win Week 17 match against the Cleveland Browns. Sadly, he played poorly, putting Washington out of playoff contention.
The Commanders had seen enough and released Wentz after the 2022 NFL season. After failing in two opportunities as a starting quarterback, he would have to take a significant salary cut if he wanted to keep playing. But getting another contract isn’t up to him because it looks like he has given everything he can as a player. He’d be lucky if an NFL team came calling, considering his recent struggles.
