By Tom Waterman
Now almost six years removed from the now infamous 2004 NFL Draft that featured one of the most prominent Quarterback classes of all-time. We are all now faced with the question of which one of those quarterbacks is the best. Here is a quick recap of the players.
Drafted with the first pick overall was Eli Manning out of the University of Mississippi. As we all remember, Manning was subsequently traded to the New York Giants mere hours after being selected by the San Diego Chargers. So far in his career, Manning has led the New York Giants to two NFC East titles, a Super Bowl victory over the previously unbeaten New England Patriots, and to four consecutive (possibly soon to be five) playoff appearances.
Along with the success of his team, Manning has continued to improve each year in the league and now regarded by most as one of the top quarterbacks in the league.
Eli Manning Career Stats:
124 Touchdowns
85 Interceptions
56.7% completion percentage
79.3 QB rating
50-35 as a starter
Drafted with the fourth pick that year was Philip Rivers out of North Carolina State University. Rivers, who was originally drafted by the New York Giants, was ultimately traded to the Chargers for Eli Manning and is now in his fourth season as the starter for the San Diego Chargers. He has led his team to two AFC championship appearances, and has also had four consecutive seasons with at least 20 touchdowns and 3,000 yards passing.
Philip Rivers Career Stats:
103 Touchdowns
45 Interceptions
62.9% completion percentage
95.3 QB rating
44-18 as a starter
Not to be forgotten, also drafted with the tenth pick that year was Ben Roethlisberger out of the University of Miami Ohio. Roethlisberger has two Super Bowl Rings with Steelers and quarterbacked the first playoff team to win three consecutive road playoff games in route to winning the Super Bowl.
Ben Roethlisberger Career Stats:
123 Touchdowns
80 Interceptions
63.4% completion percentage
91.6 QB rating
Regardless of what you value more, team success or individual statistics. People all are of a differing opinion of which quarterback is better. Either way, this QB class of 2004 will certainly go down as one of the best of all time. So which quarterback would you want on your team?