Inside the Numbers provides insights into NFL statistics, streaks, and trends on a weekly basis. The landscape of rookie quarterbacks in the NFL has evolved significantly, with this season marking the third time in four years that three rookie quarterbacks will start the season opener. The trio includes Caleb Williams for Chicago, Jayden Daniels for Washington, and Bo Nix for Denver, showcasing half of the six quarterbacks drafted in the first round in April as immediate starters.

This trend follows recent seasons where three rookie quarterbacks also started in Week 1. Historically, 32 out of 55 rookie quarterbacks who started the opener did so in the past 19 seasons, compared to only 23 in the first 38 years following the 1970 merger. Despite their enthusiasm, rookie QBs have a tough opening track record, with a combined 16-35-1 record in openers and no wins in the last five seasons.

Chicago’s Caleb Williams aims to make history by becoming the first No. 1 pick quarterback to win a season opener as a rookie since 2002. The Bears hope Williams can break the franchise’s record by becoming their first 4,000-yard passer, a milestone achieved by 28 other teams in the past 13 seasons in the pass-centric era.

In Washington, Jayden Daniels will be the eighth different Week 1 starting QB in as many seasons, setting a Super Bowl era record. Meanwhile, Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams is slated to make his 16th consecutive Week 1 start, joining a select group of quarterbacks with such longevity in opening games.

The NFL season also brings anticipation with teams attempting to go from last to first in their divisions. Notably, the dominance of Kansas City in the AFC West, along with the NFC East looking to crown a repeat champion after two decades, adds to the intrigue of the upcoming season. Additionally, the return of Coach Jim Harbaugh to the NFL with the Los Angeles Chargers brings a compelling storyline, as he aims to replicate his previous successes on the professional level.

As the NFL season kicks off, fans can expect a mix of historical milestones, emerging talents, and perennial contenders vying for success in one of America’s most beloved sports leagues.