The only two players to handle the ball on (almost) every offensive play are the Center - who snaps the ball - and the Quarterback. The quarterback also serves as the on-field coach of the team, responsible for directing the plays, making adjustments to plays and strategies on the field, and utilizing multiple skills to direct the offense. They are responsible for making split second decisions on which of several options they should use to advance the play - run, hand off, or pass. They must also have the ability to throw the ball well. Failure of the quarterback to do his job has more impact on the offense than the actions of any other single position on the field. They are also expected to provide leadership in less tangible ways - inspiring and motivating their teammates. Other players have more limited responsibilities. Fewer players have both the physical and mental skills to carry out the responsibilities of the quarterback position than the other positions - so by the law of supply and demand, the price of a quarterback is bid upwards in the marketplace.
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Because he is often in the back quarter of play. meaning he is in the last quarter of people on the field.