Philip Rivers finished 2013 as the 6th rated fantasy quarterback. He led the league in completion percentage and was 5th in passing yards despite being 19th in passing attempts… that is special. His 32 touchdowns were 4th best in the NFL last year.
Analysis: People forget how good Rivers was a few years ago. From 2008-2010 Rivers averaged 4,324 passing yards, 30.6 touchdowns and a 103.9 passer rating. After two off years with offensive line, ground game and turnover problems he posted a great 2013 line of 4,478 passing yards, 32 touchdowns and a 105.5 passer rating. Yeah, these numbers seem very similar to his “three year peak.” Philip Rivers is back.
Currently, Philip Rivers is the 14th quarterback being taken in drafts. He is going in the 105-110 pick range. Rivers is the steal of the year if he stays healthy. In contrast- Matt Ryan is the 8th quarterback being taken in the 70-90 pick range. Ryan has a questionable ground game, a left tackle out for the season and Julio Jones who is coming off a major injury.
Rivers is the better QB at this point in their careers and he also has a better ground game and offensive line.