NFL: 4 QBs Better Than Eli Manning but Still Not in Same Class as Tom Brady

Eli Manning recently said that he thinks he's in the same class of quarterbacks as Tom Brady.

(Pause for laughter).

No, seriously, he said that.

Now, Manning isn't a bum. He's a very good NFL quarterback. But to say he's in the same class as Brady is a joke.

The elite class of quarterbacks in the NFL is Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers and Philip Rivers. Then, there are four more quarterbacks who aren't quite elite, but are still better than Manning.

Let's take a look at those four quarterbacks now.

Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys

Romo is an excellent quarterback when he's healthy.

If he doesn't get hurt in 2011, he should have a huge season for the Cowboys.

His best years are just around the corner. Look for him to take advantage of them.

Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons

Matt Ryan just gets the job done, plain and simple. He's been a great QB for the Falcons since entering the NFL.

He doesn't throw too many interceptions and holds onto the ball well.

He doesn't make a lot of huge plays, but that's not the way the Falcons offense works.

He should have more big-play options this season with the new rookie wide receiver Julio Jones.

Matt Schaub, Houston Texans

Schaub threw for 4,370 yards and 24 touchdowns last season.

He put up even better numbers in 2009.

With Andre Johnson on his side and Arian Foster at running back, the Texans offense is going to be dynamic again in 2011. That means Schaub will have another huge year.

Though the Texans have never made it to the playoffs under Schaub, it's more the fault of the defense. 

Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers

Roethlisberger has won two Super Bowls as a member of the Steelers.

He constantly makes big plays outside the pocket after avoiding pressure. He's also very clutch late in games more often than not.

Manning is also a tough QB who was clutch in the most important moment of his career (Super Bowl vs. Patriots). But Roethlisberger is more consistent than Manning and doesn't throw as many interceptions.

If the Steelers called the Giants and offered Roethlisberger for Manning, the Giants would most likely say yes.