As the highly anticipated 2024 NFL season draws near, the pressure is mounting for several quarterbacks who will be starting the campaign under intense scrutiny. From recovering from injuries to facing stiff competition from young talents, these signal callers have a lot riding on their performance this season.

Aaron Rodgers of the New York Jets is one quarterback who will be under the microscope. After a season-ending Achilles injury cut short his first year with the Jets, Rodgers is back and ready to lead the team. With high expectations for a Super Bowl run, the 40-year-old veteran knows that a strong performance in 2024 is crucial for both his team and his own legacy.

In Pittsburgh, Russell Wilson emerges as the starting quarterback for the Steelers after a tough battle with Justin Fields. However, Wilson's spot is far from secure, as any prolonged struggles could open the door for a change at the position. With Fields waiting in the wings, Wilson needs to prove that he is the right choice for Pittsburgh and bounce back from a lackluster performance with the Denver Broncos.

Daniel Jones finds himself in a precarious position with the New York Giants. The young quarterback had a disappointing season before suffering a season-ending ACL injury. Despite being under contract until 2026, Jones has yet to prove that he is the long-term solution for the franchise. Rumors of the Giants' interest in trading up for a rookie quarterback further emphasize the lack of faith in Jones. The pressure is on for him to deliver a breakout season and silence the doubters.

Kirk Cousins, fresh off an Achilles tear that sidelined him for a significant portion of the 2023 season, signed a hefty four-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons invested a large sum of money in the aging quarterback, but they also drafted Michael Penix Jr., adding competition to the mix. Cousins will need to prove his worth and justify his price tag while fending off the threat of a younger quarterback gunning for his starting job.

Gardner Minshew, now with the Las Vegas Raiders, secured the starting role after a preseason battle with Aidan O'Connell. Although Minshew has been a serviceable quarterback, his position is far from secure, with coach Antonio Pierce potentially considering a change if he falters. The pressure is on for Minshew to bring consistency to his game and fend off any challengers.

Deshaun Watson, the highest-paid quarterback in terms of total guaranteed money, has yet to live up to his contract with the Cleveland Browns. Despite a record of 8-4 in the past two seasons, Watson's numbers have been underwhelming. With a base salary of $46 million for the next three seasons, expectations are high for him to deliver on the historic deal he received from the team.

As the 2024 NFL season kicks off, these six quarterbacks find themselves in the spotlight, with their performances under scrutiny. Whether it's returning from injury, fending off competition, or proving their worth, their success this season will have a significant impact on their respective teams and their own careers. The stage is set for an exciting and pressure-filled season for these quarterbacks.