Premature 2010 Fantasy Player Rankings: Top 10 Quarterbacks

Quarterback rankings are based on PPR leagues (point per reception) that reward 1 pt. per 10 yards rushing/receiving, 6 pts. per TD rushing/receiving, 4 pts per 25 yards passing, and -2 pts. per INT or fumble lost

Check out our other early rankings: Top 10 Running Backs / Top 10 Wide Receivers

1. Peyton Manning

The best in the business, and probably ever, he’s a winner no matter who is around him. Lock him in for 4,000 yards and around 30 TDs every year. He has a laser rocket arm, he’s always healthy, he’s unbelievably consistent, and he has weapons aplenty. Aside from the usual suspects, Clark, Wayne, and Addai, newcomers Pierre Garcon, Austin Collie and Donald Brown are finding their stride. Add a healthy Anthony Gonzalez in 2010 and Peyton and the Colts just keep rolling.

2. Drew Brees

Brees is one of the best in the game. Last year he threw for 5,000 yards, this year his team is 13-1 and he’s thrown a league leading 33 TDs. He has a rifle of an arm, he’s deadly accurate, and he’s in complete control of the game. It’s merely a preference when it comes to choosing between him and Manning as he can put up 30 points in any given week. With talents like Colston, Shockey, Meachem, Thomas, and Bush around, the Saints offense will continue to be one of the most explosive for years.

3. Aaron Rodgers

Rodgers is leading your league in scoring right now, and it’s not surprising. He’s the total package. He can air it out with the best of ‘em and he leads all QBs in rushing yards and rushing TDs.  He’s blossoming into one of the best young QB’s in the game.  He’s consistent, he has quality receivers around him, and he’s only just getting started. It’d be hard to reach for him over Manning and Brees, or even Brady for some, but if you live in Wisconsin, or you favor youth, go ahead and grab him.

4. Tom Brady

Brady has had his ups and downs this season, but he’s still one of the best in the game. The numbers haven’t come as easily this year, but overall he’s still managed to stay in the top 10. With a full healthy season under his belt, and Moss and Welker at his disposal, Brady could easily improve on his ‘09 season. 50 touchdowns isn’t realistic, but no one would be surprised if he finished as the best fantasy QB, or the NFL MVP, or the SuperBowl MVP, or in a GQ spread.

5. Matt Schaub

Schaub finally broke through as the fantasy star we imagined he’d be if he stayed healthy. His big arm and accuracy have made him one of the most consistent fantasy performers in the league. If you’re playing against Schaub, your always on edge. If you have Schaub, you’re likely playing in your superbowl. Schaub’s arsenal starts with the best receiver in football in Andre Johnson. Add star TE Owen Daniels back in the mix next year, and another healthy season, and your looking at a top 5 QB.

6. Phillip Rivers

Rivers grabbed this struggling 2-3 chargers team, threw them on his back and hasn’t looked back. The short arm throwing style is awkward to watch, but he’s very accurate and excellent in the clutch. He has weapons all around him in Gates, Jackson, and LT, and he’s just entering his prime years. Rivers won’t explode with huge games, but he is consistent as they come. With only one game under double digit scoring in ‘09, he’s as safe a pick as there is after the big names are off the board.

7. Tony Romo

Much was made early in ‘09 about Romo’s struggles, but he’s calmed his critics over the course of the season and put up great numbers.  Romo is a playmaker and he’s found an explosive compliment in Miles Austin. He’s been excellent at taking care of the ball, and he seems to have a renewed focus. He should finish ‘09 with about 4,000 yards and just over 25 TDs.  With solid weapons in Witten, Roy Williams, and the three talented running backs, Romo will put up similar numbers in 2010.

8. Ben Roethlisberger

Big Ben has always had the tools to put up big numbers, but his team has always focused on the run. Not anymore. This Steelers team airs the ball out. With a number of 300 yard games, two with 400 and 500 in another, Ben is certainly utilizing his weapons. Hines, Santonio, and the new deep threat Mike Wallace have all had plenty of work, and it shouldn’t change next year. Ben is talented enough to carry this team, and he’ll have the Steelers back in the mix in 2010.

9. Eli Manning

Eli looked like an MVP through the first five games, but tailed off against a tougher schedule. He’s gotten it back together and put up solid numbers along the way. His 26 TDs are good for 5th in the league, and he’s kept the mistakes to a minimum. He should finish year around the top 10 in points and next year should be similar. Steve Smith, Hakeem Nicks, and Mario Manningham have all become legitimate weapons in this offense. Eli could be a top 5 name if he was more consistent.

10. Donovan McNabb

McNabb has been excellent this season and he has his Eagles heading to the playoffs again. Sure, he seems like he’s getting old, but he’s still playing like the same old McNabb, and he’s really just the same age as Peyton. With the most explosive player in football in DeSean Jackson at his disposal, and up and coming stars in Maclin and McCoy, McNabb will have more veteran weapons than ever in 2010. When he stays healthy, he’s always consistent. A solid pick in the middle rounds.

JUST MISSED, AND WHY

Brett Favre – He’s been great and his weapons are abundant, but 41 is ancient in the NFL. If he comes back he could potentially finish in the top 10. He’s never missed a game but there are more youthful options to anchor your team.

Vince Young – Vince could very well crack the top 1o. His playmaking ability as a runner/improviser is excellent, but his passing yards are always lacking.  He’s looked like a winner in 8 games this season, but he still has plenty to prove as a reliable QB1..

Carson Palmer – Carson looked poised for a big 2009, but the Bengals have favored the running game. He’s still a great player in this league and if Cincinnati decides to open up the offense, he has the ability to lead your team.

Matt Ryan – As solid as Ryan has been, he has yet to showcase the big passing numbers.

Kurt Warner – Warner has two of the best WRs in the game, but his age and his health keep him just outside the top 10.

Jay Cutler – Get him some weapons and anything is possible.