The theory of evolution states that living organisms change to survive. There are many different ways that a gene can mutate, but the mutations that improve the creature, and better its chances of survival are the ones that are passed on. The negatively mutated organisms die off, while the positively mutated organisms thrive, and pave the way for future generations. This process is called natural selection. This same theory has begun to prove true in the NFL, and is very obvious, specifically in the quarterback. The league has grown into a massive entertainment business and the quarterback position has been a certain way for quite some time. It became one thing, and as the defenses have begun to try to match it, it is beginning to change into another thing. Because of the changing league, quarterbacks who have adapted are the ones who are surviving, and thriving. As the league gains popularity, the competition gets stiffer, so quarterbacks are required to be able to do more than ever. Also, defenses are becoming faster and stronger which requires quarterbacks to do the same. Quarterbacks are becoming more athletic to better compete in the NFL.
When the league started in 1920, the quarterback was basically just another running back. He would either run the ball himself or give the ball to someone else to run. As the league began to gain its identity, the quarterback position became more defined. The quarterback evolved into a distributor to better take advantage of the other athletes on the team. The quarterback was now the facilitator instead of the playmaker. It has been this way since the super bowl era began. All the greatest quarterbacks up to this point have been distributors. Players like Tom Brady and Peyton manning have had more success than running quarterbacks like Michael Vick and Randall Cunningham when it comes to wins. Brady and Manning have had a combine 4 super bowl victories, While Vick and Cunningham both have none. Running quarterbacks to...