Looking back at the 2023 QB recruiting class. The worst QB Class?

The 2023 quarterback recruiting class was anticipated to be one of the most talent-rich in recent memory. However, as the 2025 college football season approaches, it’s evident that many of the top quarterbacks from this class have yet to make significant impacts on the field. This article delves into the performances and trajectories of these quarterbacks, examining whether this class might be considered one of the most underwhelming in recent years.

The 2023 recruiting cycle featured several highly touted quarterbacks, including:

• Arch Manning (Texas): The nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch was a five-star recruit and the consensus No. 1 quarterback in the class.
• Nico Iamaleava (Tennessee): A five-star prospect known for his strong arm and athleticism.
• Dante Moore (UCLA): A four-star recruit with a reputation for his accuracy and poise in the pocket.
• Jackson Arnold (Oklahoma): A four-star quarterback who committed to Oklahoma early in the process.
• Jaden Rashada (Arizona State): A four-star recruit whose recruitment was marked by significant NIL-related controversies.

These quarterbacks were expected to lead their respective programs and make immediate impacts. However, the reality has been more complex.

As the 2023 season unfolded, many of these quarterbacks faced challenges:

• Arch Manning: Manning redshirted his first season at Texas, with Quinn Ewers and later Malik Murphy taking the starting roles.
• Nico Iamaleava: Iamaleava appeared in limited games for Tennessee, with Joe Milton III starting ahead of him.
• Dante Moore: Moore started several games for UCLA but struggled with consistency, leading to a mid-season benching.
• Jackson Arnold: Arnold saw limited action behind starter Dillon Gabriel at Oklahoma.
• Jaden Rashada: After a tumultuous recruitment, Rashada enrolled at Arizona State but did not see significant playing time.

These performances have led to questions about the readiness and development of these quarterbacks.

Several factors may have contributed to the underwhelming performances of these quarterbacks:

• High Expectations: The immense pressure and expectations placed on these young quarterbacks can be overwhelming, potentially hindering their development.
• System Fit: Not all quarterbacks are suited for the offensive systems they enter, which can affect their performance.
• Coaching Stability: Frequent changes in coaching staff can disrupt a quarterback’s development and understanding of the playbook.
• NIL Distractions: The introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals has added new pressures and distractions for recruits.

While the 2023 quarterback class has faced challenges, it’s important to note that many of these players are still early in their careers. Development in college football can be nonlinear, and some quarterbacks may find success in later seasons as they mature and adjust to the collegiate level.

Programs like Texas, Tennessee, UCLA, Oklahoma, and Arizona State have strong support systems and resources to aid in the development of their quarterbacks. With time and experience, these young quarterbacks may still fulfill their potential.

The 2023 quarterback recruiting class has not yet met the lofty expectations set for it. However, it’s premature to label it the “worst” quarterback class without considering the long-term development of these players. As they gain experience and adjust to the collegiate game, there remains potential for many of them to succeed at the highest levels of college football.