AFC West quarterback rankings: Patrick Mahomes or Philip Rivers up top?
By Grant Tuttle
2. Philip Rivers, Los Angeles Chargers
Philip Rivers is not a youngster anymore. That being said, he has been a very effective quarterback even in his later years. In fact, he has been arguably a top-five caliber quarterback for the last three seasons.
Rivers is beginning to float passes more and is not able to make deep throws at the same rate that he once was. Rivers, like Tom Brady, has been immune to regression due to his ability to make quick decisions and read a defense better than almost any other quarterback.
In 2019, Rivers enters the season in the final year of his contract. At 37 years of age, Rivers is making no promises to continue playing next season; however, competing for a Super Bowl may change his mind one way or another. Rivers seemingly loves football and may also want to coach someday. In order to feel ready to move on, he would like to have a Super Bowl.
This season, Rivers has Hunter Henry, who is one of the most athletic tight ends in the game, on the inside to pair with possession target Keenan Allen and red zone threat Mike Williams. Just like Mahomes in Kansas City, the Chargers have plenty of talented offensive weapons and stopping them will be no easy task for opposing defenses.
Last season: 347/508, 68% completion, 4,308 yards, 32 touchdowns, 12 interceptions
2019-2020 projection: 357/538, 66% completion, 4,483 yards, 30 touchdowns, 14 interceptions