ESPN has recently released its highly anticipated list of the top 75 quarterbacks of the 21st century. This extensive ranking showcases a mix of legendary names, emerging talents, and college players making their mark. Notable quarterbacks such as Michael Vick, Joe Hamilton, Josh Heupel, and Drew Brees have earned their spots alongside rising stars like Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and Stetson Bennett.
The Two Clemson Quarterbacks
Clemson Football proudly boasts two quarterbacks on the list. They are Deshaun Watson at #6 and Trever Lawrence at #11, both finding their place among the elite top 15. Let’s reminisce and talk about these 2 Clemson greats.
#6 Deshaun Watson 2014 – 2016
Deshaun Watson was a quarterback for the Clemson Tigers from 2014 to 2016. He led the Tigers to an undefeated regular season and a berth in the College Football Playoff in 2015, and to a national championship in 2016. Watson was named the ACC Player of the Year in both 2015 and 2016, and he won the Davey O’Brien Award as the nation’s top quarterback in 2016.
Watson was a dual-threat quarterback who was both accurate and mobile. He threw for over 4,000 yards and 35 touchdowns in each of his two seasons as a starter, and he also rushed for over 1,000 yards in 2016. Watson was a clutch performer who made big plays in big games. He threw for 405 yards and four touchdowns in the 2016 national championship game, and he also threw the game-winning touchdown pass in the 2015 ACC championship game.
Watson was drafted by the Houston Texans in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, and he made an immediate impact in the NFL. He threw for 3,850 yards and 25 touchdowns in his rookie season, and he was named to the Pro Bowl. Watson is now with the Cleveland Browns and is a rising star in the NFL, and he has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the league for years to come.
#11 Trevor Lawrence
Trevor Lawrence’s college football career at Clemson University was nothing short of spectacular. As a freshman, he emerged as a star quarterback, leading the Tigers to an undefeated regular season and a dominant victory in the ACC Championship Game. Lawrence’s exceptional play continued in the College Football Playoff, where he guided Clemson to a resounding win over Notre Dame and a historic triumph over Alabama in the National Championship game. His freshman campaign was highlighted by 3,280 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, and multiple prestigious awards.
In his sophomore year, Lawrence faced high expectations as he aimed for individual accolades like the Heisman Trophy. Although he had a relatively slow start, he rallied in the latter half of the season, propelling Clemson to another undefeated regular season and an ACC Championship title. However, their championship hopes were cut short as they fell to LSU in the National Championship game. Despite the loss, Lawrence’s outstanding performances garnered recognition, and he finished seventh in the Heisman Trophy voting. In his junior year, Lawrence faced challenges, including a brief absence due to a positive COVID-19 test, but he led Clemson to the ACC Championship Game once again before falling short in the College Football Playoff semi-final against Ohio State. Lawrence’s college career concluded with impressive stats and multiple accolades, solidifying his place as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in college football history.
Trevor Lawrence was drafted #1 overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2021 NFL Draft. He was considered the consensus top prospect in the draft, and his selection was no surprise. Lawrence had a stellar college career at Clemson, where he won the 2019 National Championship Game and set the school’s record for quarterback wins. He is known for his strong arm, accuracy, and mobility. The Jaguars drafted knowing with Lawrence’s talent that he can help them turn their franchise around and become a contender in the AFC South.
Two Clemson Quarterbacks that will forever be remembered
Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence’s journeys have captivated football enthusiasts worldwide, demonstrating their exceptional talents, leadership abilities, and positive contributions both on and off the field. From Watson’s rise as a legendary Clemson quarterback to Lawrence’s remarkable ascent from a small-town quarterback to a celebrated college and professional football star, their stories inspire and resonate with fans globally. As these extraordinary athletes continue to shape the future of football, their legacies will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and inspiring generations to come.
