In a surprising turn of events, the highly anticipated quarterback class of the 2021 NFL Draft has failed to live up to expectations. With only one exception, the majority of the five quarterbacks taken in the top 15 selections have struggled to make an impact on the field.

The disappointment began with last year's third overall pick, Trey Lance, who was quickly traded from the San Francisco 49ers to the Dallas Cowboys for a mere fourth-round pick. Adding to the list of underperforming quarterbacks, Mac Jones, the fifteenth overall selection, was recently sent packing from the New England Patriots to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for a lowly sixth-round pick.

The trend continued with Justin Fields, the eleventh overall pick, who has now been traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a sixth-round pick in 2025. The New York Jets, who selected Zach Wilson as the consensus second overall pick, are even considering giving up a sixth-round pick to rid themselves of Wilson and his hefty $5.4 million guaranteed compensation package.

This alarming pattern highlights the struggles faced by the highly touted quarterback class of 2021. Trevor Lawrence, the first overall pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars, showed promise initially but faltered as the team's performance collapsed down the stretch last year. Now, there are doubts emerging about whether he truly deserves the status of a franchise quarterback, with a potential fourth season needed to determine his true value.

Looking beyond the top picks, the entire quarterback class of 2021 has fared poorly through three seasons. Players such as Kyle Trask, Kellen Mond, Davis Mills, Ian Book, and Sam Ehlinger have all failed to make a significant impact on their respective teams. Even the undrafted class has not produced any hidden gems, lacking the likes of a Tony Romo or Kurt Warner.

As the 2022 NFL Draft approaches, several teams are placing their hopes on rookie quarterbacks once again. However, the disappointing results of the 2021 draft serve as a reminder that drafting a successful quarterback is far from guaranteed. The Draft Industrial Complex's yearly proclamation of every pick being a winner seems more like wishful thinking than reality.

It is evident that selecting a quarterback in the NFL Draft is akin to playing a game of chance, with success relying heavily on a player's ability to adapt to the professional level. While the upcoming draft class shows promise, the 2021 harvest serves as a stark reminder that drafting a reliable and impactful quarterback is far from guaranteed.

As the NFL Draft approaches its annual late April crescendo, it is crucial to keep in mind that the outcome is ultimately uncertain, and each selection remains a gamble, at best. The NFL's future stars could emerge from unexpected places, or they may struggle to leave a lasting mark on the league. Only time will tell.