New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson threw nine touchdowns and 11 interceptions during his NFL rookie season.
Fans would have crucified him on social media and the internet, if not for leading a relatively weak roster.
But having more interceptions than touchdowns does not indicate that a quarterback will have an unfortunate career.
After all, Hall of Famer Peyton Manning started his NFL journey on the wrong note.
It's kinda wild to remember that the rookie with the most INT thrown in NFL history is…
Peyton Manning (28) pic.twitter.com/RKmFV4Q09c
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) May 12, 2022
The NFL on CBS Twitter account reminded football fans that Manning still holds the record for most interceptions thrown by a rookie with 28 picks.
In that year, he had 26 touchdowns and tallied 3,739 passing yards.
Worst yet, the Colts finished the season with a 3-13 record.
But the franchise was patient on him and named him the starter for the 1999 season.
He rewarded their trust by helping compile a 13-3 record.
More importantly, he reduced his interceptions count to 15 but also had 4,135 passing yards.
Manning kept his momentum going and finally won Super Bowl XLI with the Indianapolis Colts.
Manning Establishes A Splendid Career
After his struggles during the rookie season, Manning went on to become a seven-time All-Pro selection.
He was also named to 14 Pro Bowls and is the league’s only five-time Most Valuable Player.
Manning also won his second Super Bowl title, this time with the Denver Broncos.
If he was benched immediately, we might not have watched one of the best quarterbacks of all time.
Therefore, let Manning’s tale be a moral lesson that patience will pay off.
After all, rookie quarterbacks need coaching and guidance to perform well.
It’s hard to see someone throw for 27 interceptions anymore because he will be pulled out immediately.
That said, Manning’s record may linger for a while.
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