So I’m sure after reading my last story, you’re probably asking, “Sam, how are you such a skilled writer?” well that article would have to be turned into a book. But perhaps you are wondering what’s going on in the draft world outside of Indiana.
There are several teams in the NFL that are in need of an elite quarterback, or in need of drafting at the least a good quarterback. Those teams include, but are not limited to; Arizona, Buffalo, Carolina, Cincinnati, Minnesota, San Francisco, Seattle, Tennessee, and Washington. There is quite an abundance of QB’s in the draft, the problem is none of them have proven that they will be able to lead a team and become a franchise quarterback.
Below is a list of a few of the big name quarterbacks that are expected to make a splash in the Draft and NFL.
Cam Newton- Played only year at Auburn University after transferring from junior college. He won a national championship at that junior college, as well as with Auburn. He has shown some character issues and is a running quarterback, but has a cannon for an arm. I really liked this guy at Auburn, I watched several games and he never failed to impress me. I’m just unsure if his talents will translate to being successful at the professional level though. I’m hoping the Carolina Panthers, who have the first pick in the Draft, don’t pick this guy or any other quarterback. If they do, then former Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen would probably lose his starting position.
Blaine Gabbert- I know absolutely nothing about this guy, except NFL scouts have been watching him since he was a backup to current NFL QB Chase Daniel. In his 2010 season at Missouri, Gabbert threw for over 3,000 yards and 16 touchdowns, with a QB rating of 127(ESPN.com). Peter King wrote that Gabbert “rarely threw downfield at Missouri, isn't as football-smart or as prepared to play in new coordinator Jay Gruden's quick-decision passing scheme as some of the other quarterbacks coming out”. So take that for what it’s worth, but I’m not buying on Gabbert either.
Ryan Mallet- Mallet enrolled at Michigan but transferred to Arkansas after his freshman season. In his two years at Arkansas he threw for 52 touchdowns, almost 7,500 yards, and just 19 interceptions. Needless to say, this guy likes to throw. He has the size to be a great quarterback, but he has his flaws, ones that come from off the field. There have been numerous stories that have linked Mallet to drug use, excessive partying, and have questioned his character.
Other quarterbacks expected to be taken in the early rounds of the Draft include:
- Jake Locker (Washington)
- Andy Dalton (TCU)
- Tyrod Taylor (Virginia Tech)
- Christian Ponder (Florida State)
- Colin Capernick (Nevada)
- Ricky Stanzi (Iowa)
- Greg McElroy (Alabama)
- T. J. Yates (North Carolina)
It’s crazy to see Greg McElroy, a guy that won a national championship two years ago, be so far down on the list of QB’s wanted. Tyrod Taylor won’t do anything in the NFL, he’s too small. I’m predicating Jake Locker will make the biggest positive impact of any of these players.
The 1st Round of the 2011 Draft will take place Thursday night at 8 p.m. on ESPN. The 2nd and 3rd Round are Friday night, rounds 4 thru 7 will occur Saturday.
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