The 2004 NFL quarterback class was one of the most impressive in recent memory, producing several notable players who have gone on to have successful careers.
In terms of statistics, Philip Rivers has been the most productive of the three, with over 63,000 passing yards and 421 touchdowns in his career. Rivers is also known for his consistency and durability, having started 252 consecutive games before retiring after the 2020 season. He was also named to the Pro Bowl eight times and was a First-Team All-Pro selection in 2008.
Here is Mel Kiper Jr. breaking down the selection of QB Philip Rivers in the 2004 NFL Draft. pic.twitter.com/sxOeRh0hgW
— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) February 21, 2023
While Roethlisberger has had a productive career, he has also been plagued by injuries and off-field controversies, including a suspension in 2010. His statistics are similar to Rivers’, with over 60,000 passing yards and 396 touchdowns, but he has only been named to the Pro Bowl six times and has never been a First-Team All-Pro.
Here is Mel Kiper Jr. breaking down the selection of #Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger during the 2004 NFL Draft: pic.twitter.com/tpTHZ7kRRY
— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) February 21, 2023
Eli Manning is perhaps best known for his clutch performances in the playoffs, leading the New York Giants to two Super Bowl victories. He has also been named to the Pro Bowl four times, but his career statistics are not as impressive as those of Rivers and Roethlisberger, with just over 57,000 passing yards and 366 touchdowns.
The top 3 QBs from the 04 NFL Draft are now retired: Eli Manning, Philip Rivers & Roethlisberger.
Worth revisiting that draft: Giants were going to take Ben if they couldn't trade for Eli. Rivers would've been a Steeler.
How different the NFL would be…pic.twitter.com/mtqmd0M8QV
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) January 27, 2022
The question of whether Philip Rivers is better than Ben Roethlisberger and Eli Manning is a matter of debate among football fans and experts. However, there are several arguments that favor of Rivers.
Consistency: Philip Rivers has been one of the most consistent quarterbacks in the NFL throughout his career. He has thrown for over 4,000 yards in 11 seasons, and has a career passer rating of 95.1, which is higher than both Roethlisberger and Manning.
Durability: Rivers has been remarkably durable, having started 240 consecutive regular season games as of his retirement in 2021. This is a testament to his toughness and ability to stay on the field.
Intelligence: Rivers is widely regarded as one of the most intelligent quarterbacks in the league, with a deep understanding of offensive schemes and defenses. His ability to read the field and make quick decisions is a key factor in his success.
Accuracy: Rivers is known for his pinpoint accuracy, completing over 64% of his passes in his career. This is higher than both Roethlisberger and Manning.
Leadership: Rivers is a natural leader who commands respect from his teammates. He is known for his competitive spirit and his ability to rally his team in the face of adversity.
While Roethlisberger and Manning have had their own success and accomplishments, Rivers’ consistency, durability, intelligence, accuracy, and leadership have set him apart as one of the best quarterbacks of his generation.
In terms of overall success, all three quarterbacks have had impressive careers and have left their mark on the NFL. However, when it comes to pure statistics, consistency, and durability, Philip Rivers has the edge over Ben Roethlisberger and Eli Manning.