We're midway through July, and the NFL preseason is approaching. Every NFL season brings immense pressure to the starting quarterbacks. Quarterbacks are expected to lead, they get paid more than any other position, and they are overprotected by the league.

Every quarterback listed below was a first round draft pick.

Excuse time is over. These five quarterbacks will be under the most pressure this season.

5. Alex Smith

The Kansas City Chiefs may have their best opportunity to win the AFC West in the Andy Reid era this season. The Chiefs have a good defense, and arguably the best running back in Jamaal Charles, but Alex Smith has yet show he can make the clutch throws. Since arriving in Kansas City, Smith is 0-4 against the Denver Broncos. Now he will have Jeremy Maclin as a target, and it's time for him to improve his deep throws. Smith is scheduled to make over $14 million next season.

1. E.J. Manuel

It's kind of unfortunate for E.J. Manuel because he should have never been a first round draft pick. But he was. The Buffalo Bills have an elite defense, a good offensive line, one of the best young wide receivers in Sammy Watkins, and Tom Brady will miss a quarter of the season. The Bills also acquired LeSean McCoy from the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason via trade. Manuel was benched last season for Kyle Orton, but he retired. This Bills team is just a quarterback away from making a playoff splash. Time for Manuel to perform like a No. 16 overall pick.

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