The Rise and Fall of Josh Rosen: A Career Analysis
Josh Rosen, a former first-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, faced numerous challenges that led to his release from multiple NFL teams. While performance issues and injury were factors, the fundamental mismatch between the quarterback's skill set and the coaching schemes played a crucial role in his journey and eventual departure from the league.
Josh Rosen's Journey in the NFL
Josh Rosen was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals, who had high hopes for the young quarterback. The Cardinals aimed to transition from their pass-first offense under Bruce Arians to a run-heavy scheme under the new head coach, Steve Wilks. However, this transitional period did not go as planned. After a disastrous start under Sam Bradford, Rosen was thrust into the starting role, despite the less-than-ideal circumstances. This early introduction to the league troubled the progression of both Rosen and the Cardinals.
Performance Issues and Coaching Adjustments
Rosen's struggles with turnovers and inconsistency in his play prevented him from establishing himself as a reliable starting quarterback. His performance issues, combined with the rapid changes in coaching staff and schemes, hindered his development. Each team's coaching ambitions and strategies did not align with Rosen's skill set, leading to further instability and frustration.
Team Changes and Injuries
After brief stints with the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Atlanta Falcons, Rosen found himself on a seemingly endless cycle of team changes. Injuries further limited his opportunities and continuity. The competition from established quarterbacks also posed a significant challenge, making it difficult for Rosen to secure a regular spot on any team.
In each new team, Rosen was expected to learn a new system and quickly emerge as the lead quarterback. However, these expectations often fell short, particularly with coaches and coaching staffs focused on implementing specific strategies without regard for Rosen's unique playing style and skill set.
The Role of Coaching in Rosen's Development
The coaching and leadership Rosen encountered played a significant role in his career trajectory. Coaches like Steve Wilks and Brian Flores aimed to implement specific schemes that did not always suit Rosen's style of play. Former coaches such as Bruce Arians and Jim Caldwell presented opportunities for growth, but the lack of stability and consistent support hindered his progress.
The challenges faced by Rosen in his early career reflect the broader issues within NFL teams and the challenges they face in developing young quarterbacks. The emphasis on transitioning players quickly without proper preparation often leads to frustration and disappointment for both the players and fans.
Conclusion
Josh Rosen's career, marked by a series of challenges and changes, highlights the complexities of developing quarterbacks in the NFL. While Rosen's performance issues and injuries certainly played a role, the fundamental mismatch between his skill set and the coaching schemes ultimately contributed to his struggles. The lack of consistent opportunities and support further emphasized the challenges he faced.
The story of Josh Rosen is one of both perseverance and disappointment, but it also serves as a cautionary tale for coaches and teams in the future. Understanding and embracing the unique strengths and weaknesses of each quarterback is crucial for long-term success in the NFL.