Does The NFL Need More Rules To Protect Quarterbacks?

Nov 4, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Shea McClellin (99) and cornerback Isaiah Frey (31) sacks Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) in the 1st quarter at Lambeau Field. Rodgers left the game with a hand injury after the play. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

This has been a bad year for NFL quarterbacks who are trying to stay healthy.  Here is a list of some of the quarterbacks who were named starters that have missed some time this year:

Nov 7, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder (7) dives for the end zone during the third quarter against the Washington Redskins at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Redskins 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

• Aaron Rodgers – Green Bay Packers (Collarbone)
• Christian Ponder – Minnesota Vikings (Ribs)
• Seneca Wallace – Green Bay Packers (Groin, IR)
• Terrelle Pryor – Oakland Raiders (Knee)
• Michael Vick – Philadelphia Eagles (Hamstring)
• Jake Locker – Tennessee Titans (Foot, IR)
• Jay Cutler – Chicago Bears (High Ankle and Groin)
• E.J. Manuel – Buffalo Bills (Knee)
• Sam Bradford (ACL, Injured Reserve)
• Matt Schaub – Houston Texans (Ankle)

Those are just some of the injuries that have happened to starting quarterbacks in the NFL this year.  Since quarterback play is so important to the NFL, including their merchandising and draw for both ratings and stadium attendance, the NFL is set to look into expanding upon current rules to help quarterbacks stay healthy.

With the rules the way they are, many fans already feel that the quarterbacks are over-protected in the game of football.  Despite that, NFL Vice President of Officiating Dean Bladino said on Thursday that the league’s competition committee will take a look this offseason at whether or not to expand the current rules that are in place.

"”Should he always get protection from low hits or head hits, regardless of the posture he’s presenting?” Blandino said in a telephone interview. ”Part of the conversation will be: Should that protection be expanded to all times when the quarterback has the ball in the pocket? Currently the quarterback is as protected now as he’s ever been, but I think that’s been the case for eight or nine years.”"

Do you think more rules need to be in place to protect quarterbacks in the NFL?  Do you feel they are over-protected?  Or do you feel that it is just right the way it is?  Comment and let us know!