My scouting breakdown/player comparisons on the QB in the 2011 NFL Draft

[Diamondback Jay]

I started this in another thread, figure I had enough to make one of my own with it.

In it, I'll be breaking down each of the QB in the first round, and possibly beyond of the draft this year. Feel free to tell me I'm crazy with these, but it's reports I've put together based off my own viewing and following.

I'll break it down with each QB getting a post, rather than making you read a gigantic, long post.

Cam Newton
Auburn
6′6
250

Strengths:

Has the prototypical combo of height, size and athleticism for the QB position. While he's not the fastest running QB out there, he fully utilizes his size, strength and speed and is tough to bring down.

He has excellent intangibles, specifically as a leader. What he did with Auburn this year was no fluke, he keeps cool under pressure, has a non-stop motor and would play with a broken neck before quitting on his team. As such, he is a lead by example type of guy, and a player that coaches and teammates rally behind. Will play hurt and banged up, is a physically and mentally tough QB.

He has a very good arm, with strength and ability to make throws in both out and corner throws. Can make the intermediate route passes with a fair amount of accuracy and can make them on the run.

Weaknesses: First, he only had one full year of experience on the Division I level. Granted, his lone season was spectacular and prior to that he sat behind some guy named Tebow who was a pretty good QB in his own right. However, facts are, there isn't a big enough body of work to fly with. Also, Gus Malzahn ran an offense that didn't require Newton to read coverages, and basically allowed him to rely on his physical gifts alone. That alone won't work on the NFL level.

As such, his pocket instincts are below adequate and in need of major work. His accuracy is spotty at times, and may need work in judging the timing of the defensive pass rush.

I also feel his field vision and vision aren't up to snuff to start on day one, and wonder if he will be able to make the open throws on the NFL level when he doesn't have time in the pocket like he did with the spread offense at Auburn.

I have the same feelings about him that I did Vince Young coming out of Texas when it comes to taking snaps under center. Neither were expected to do so.

You also can't help but include the the well documented, off-field red flags. We all know his issues at Florida, and the crap that went on with his old man regarding the pay-for-play discussions he had with Mississippi State.

Overall Assessment: I see Newton as a guy who has all the gifts physically you look for in a quarterback, and has the intangibles to be a pretty good pro signal caller with proper coaching and time. He's not a Day 1 starter, and is a guy who needs a ton of work in order to become an NFL ready QB. However, the talent is definitely there.

By all accounts and purposes, Newton may be the biggest boom/bust player in this year's draft. There's very little gray matter with him, he's either going to wind up being an impact player and perennial Pro Bowler or out of the league in five years. No middle ground here.

Best Case Scenario: Steve McNair
Worst Case Scenario: Akili Smith

 

[Diamondback Jay]

Ryan Mallett
Arkansas
6'7
238

Strengths: He has the physical tools to kill for.

He's got a big time arm, has been fairly accurate this season (he has a 67 percent completion rate this year, which is damn impressive considering the level of competition he's played against) and has averaged over 10 yards a completion.

He's capable of making all the throws in the world and has good size, and is physically tough.

He also has good size and bulk for the quarterback position and seems to have pretty good field vision and pocket awareness.

On talent alone, he's capable of being a quality NFL quarterback.

Weaknesses: Where do I begin???

First, he has major off field concerns. Wes Bunting of National Football Post recently spoke with an NFL scout, who was quoted as saying "I got stuff on Mallett that no one even knows about, and I wouldn't touch him with a ten foot pole." As of now, rumors of cocaine use are out, as are rumors that Mallett was extremely unpopular with teammates and coaches, and nearly came to blows while at Michigan with Lloyd Carr, who was easily one of the most player friendly coaches in football. The most KNOWN of the off-field issues is that he has been known to be found at the clubs when he should have been in the film room. Supposedly, there's more that are "not public knowledge."

Second, he's dumb as a box of rocks. In fact, I just recieved a letter from the Box of Rocks' legal council telling me to refrain from comparing them to someone as stupid as Mallett. When it's said and done, he may make Vince Young's Wonderlic score look high by the time he takes the test. Decision making has ALWAYS been in question with him.

On field? His footwork sucks, he's got the mobility of an offensive tackle on a 40 and over flag football team; and his release is dreadfully slow.

Then, you throw in the Bobby Petrino factor, and the fact that Petrino has a piss poor history of developing quarterbacks for the next level. The names Dave Raggone, Brian Brohm, Chris Redman and Stefan LeFors will elicit more groans than praise when talking to NFL fans. Perhaps it's the play calling, perhaps it's the coach, however with Mallett one automatically winds up with questions as to whether Mallett isn't just another system QB of Petrino's who will flop on the next level.

Overall Outlook: If I'm a team picking in the first, no matter how big my need for a QB is, I don't touch this guy with a ten foot pole. He's got way too many red flags, topped off by a horrible sense of self entitlement, which dooms QB. In the second or third, picking Mallett is something I maybe consider. It's a hell of a lot easier to cut your losses with a second round or third round bust than a first rounder. High draft pick cuts aren't easy to justify (Buster Davis?) however outside of the first round, you're not taking as big of a risk.

Best Case Scenario: Jay Cutler/ Kerry Collins
Worst Case Scenario: A more immature Derek Anderson

 

[Diamondback Jay]

Jake Locker
Washington
6'3
225

Strengths: Intangibles are top notch. He has tremendous leadership skills and a work ethic to kill for. He's a coach and teammate's dream in this avenue, he is willing to work to put forth the extra effort, will go to war for his teammates and will play each snap he can, consequences be damned.

He's also perhaps the most competitive player in this year's draft, and loyal to a core. Part of what led to him return to Washington for his senior year, and turning down potential top pick money was the fact that he felt he had unfinished business at Washington, and felt as though he couldn't leave until he led the Huskies to a bowl game, as he promised he'd do when signing his letter of intent. That's moxie.. The kind of moxie I want my QB to have.

He has terrific pocket presence and is quick in the pocket.

He's also learned in a pro style offense for the last two seasons under Steve Sarkasian, and seemed to adjust well to it.

His footwork and mechanics are as solid as they come. As is his mobility. He's no Mike Vick, but he's a guy who can scramble and hold his own when need be. He's clearly a passer first, but can run and will make the throws with accuracy on the run.

He's a fluid athlete and has top notch mechanics with his throws. He's truly got a natural feel for the position.

He'll spend hours in the tape room and extra time practicing to try to improve. While we don't know whether Locker will boom or bust on the NFL level (as we don't know with ANYONE for that matter), one thing I can say for certain is that if he flames out, it won't be due to lack of trying.

Has played with a less than stellar supporting cast and still produced. This proves he can work around a less than stacked deck, which is a major plus.

In terms of upside, he still has a ton of it and could wind up being the best player to come out of the draft.

Weaknesses: While he will play through pain and injuries, durability has been questioned with Locker. He's taken a hell of a beating at Washington, and missed time due to being banged up.

He also gets extremely flustered at times, and when he does, the wheels fall off. I've seen games where he's been thrown around and it was a nightmare for him. See the first Nebraska game from this year, when he want a horrid 4-20 passing. He also was pretty dreadful in the UCLA game.

He can be indecisive at times when it comes to decision making. While I won't say he lacks confidence in himself, sometimes he's not AS confident in his abilities as he should be.

His field vision sucks. He needs a LOT of work there as he tends to lock on one WR and will ride that horse come hell or high water.

He sometimes forces throws that he shouldn't make and lacks a lot of polish with his passes.

Overall Outlook: Locker is an intriguing prospect. I love his upside and his intangibles. I feel like he's a work in progress type QB who will pay huge dividends down the line. I think of the players at the QB position, he's got the lowest "bust factor", and may be the safest of the reaches. That being said, I don't see him as a Day 1 starter and taking him at five would still be a reach.

Best Case Scenario: Aaron Rodgers
Worst Case Scenario: Jake Plummer

 

[Diamondback Jay]

Blaine Gabbert
Missouri
6'5
235

Strengths: Most of his attributes are obvious.

He's built like an NFL quarterback and can take a pounding. He's physically a strong QB who has good durability.

He has the arm of an NFL quarterback, may have the biggest arm strength of any of the QB in this year's draft.

He has a very good work ethic. He'll make up for his shortcomings by working hard and doing extra study. That's good football IQ in my opinion.

He doesn't come with any of the prima donna tendencies you sometimes expect from a QB, he's very modest and team first oriented. Proof was, after a solid sophomore season, he was told to throw less and hand off the ball more, when it became obvious Missouri's defense could win them games. That's sign of a guy not full of his own crap, and a team first, not me-first guy.

He's a tough competitor, and bounces back from bad plays or losses with a fire in his ass. After the regular season was over, he declared that he had 10 perfect games and two terrible ones ... because Mizzou went 10-2. That's a guy who gets it.

No matter his injuries, you have to tie him down to keep him off the field. I keep stressing this, especially after seeing the Jay Cutler fiasco this weekend.

Weaknesses: He's not accurate, despite what the stats this year tell you. On top of things, 16 touchdowns in a spread offense really doesn't do much to wow anyone. He is ok in short, basic routes, and in one-on-one deep matchups, he puts the ball in play, but anything beyond that is a mess. He often grossly overthrows recievers.

His mechanics are truly awful and in need of major retooling.

His footwork is beyond sloppy most of the time, leading to many overthrows. He will also scramble out of bounds when he truly doesn't need to.

Conditioning has been an enemy of his virtually his entire career.

His pocket presence is poor and he gets rattled very easily. He tends to get happy feet, which in the shotgun formation is concerning.

He was often slow with his reads in Mizzou's otherwise wide open offense.

He also tends to lock on to recievers and his field vision is highly in question.

Playing his entire football career in the shotgun, he's going to need to learn the 3, 5 and 7 step drop. He's also going to have to learn complicated and progressive reads, which is a hell of a lot easier said than done.

Overall Outlook: I like Gabbert.. I think he's a kid with a good attitude, a solid work ethic and a mentality that you want in a QB. The physical tools are also there, but he needs some major, major work. If I'm a scout, I draft him if Locker's off the board, ahead of Mallett and perhaps ahead of Newton.. Perhaps.

I think if given the right system and coaching, he could be alright. But in the modern NFL, that's a huge if.

As is, he's another of the "don't start him right away, or you risk ruining him" type of players. At 5, he's certainly a player the Cardinals cannot afford to gamble on. If they trade down, say to the mid first, possibly. However, I can't shake the thought that a team like Washington or Tennessee will take a gamble on him before then.

Best Case Scenario: Ben Roethlisberger
Worst Case Scenario: Brian Brohm

 

[Diamondback Jay]

Pat Devlin
Delaware
6'4
227

Strengths: Strengths: Is a solid, accurate passer who can make throws in tight spots.

He has good anticipation, leads his recievers to the ball on crossing routes and deep balls.

Puts the ball in play for the reciever. Wherever the reciever winds up, Devlin will put it in play for them and hit the right spot.

Throws a pretty accurate deep ball, with nice trajectory motions. He also has a quick release and over the top delivery which make his passes sail.

Keeps his eyes downfield when escaping the pocket to the outside. Fairly adequate field vision and pocket presence.

He's a winner. He has a bulldog mentality and doesn't rattle.

He's smart as hell. Will win a lot of games based on his decision making alone.

Weaknesses: His arm strength can be defined as "adequate". Certainly not the cannon arm some of the others in the draft are.

Sometimes tends to lock on a WR and one side of the field. Also, will need to adjust to NFL speed.

Not quite as elusive and quick out of the pocket, not a threat to beat you with his feet.

He'll be making a MAJOR hike in competition in the NFL. While it worked for Joe Flacco (whom he is most compared to), he's also one of a few who have been able to transition from DII to DI. I think he can do it based off his experience on the Division I level at Penn State, however most of his time in Happy Valley was served as a backup.

He also takes WAY too many sacks. That could come back to haunt him in the NFL.

Overall Outlook: At this point, I have Devlin as a high second, possibly low first round prospect. His combine could bump him up a bit, if we saw Flacco move into first round territory a few seasons ago, it's not far off to see Devlin do the same.

I know K9 (and I) have both rallied behind this kid, and will continue to do so. As a 2nd rounder (or even a third), I'd rather see Arizona grab him than a majority of the firsts.

As of now, I see him as the consummate game manager, ultimately can become the "game winner" based off some of his skills.

Best Case Scenario: Joe Flacco
Worst Case Scenario: Ryan Fitzpatrick (hardly a bad thing)

 

[kerouac9]

Jake Plummer was a really good quarterback at the NFL level. Not elite, but he was a guy who lead two different franchises to the playoffs.

I think that the worst case scenario for Jake Locker is closer to Josh McCown.

 

[john h]

Ryan Mallett
Arkansas
6'7
238

Strengths: He has the physical tools to kill for.

He's got a big time arm, has been fairly accurate this season (he has a 67 percent completion rate this year, which is damn impressive considering the level of competition he's played against) and has averaged over 10 yards a completion.

He's capable of making all the throws in the world and has good size, and is physically tough.

He also has good size and bulk for the quarterback position and seems to have pretty good field vision and pocket awareness.

On talent alone, he's capable of being a quality NFL quarterback.

Weaknesses: Where do I begin???

First, he has major off field concerns. Wes Bunting of National Football Post recently spoke with an NFL scout, who was quoted as saying "I got stuff on Mallett that no one even knows about, and I wouldn't touch him with a ten foot pole." As of now, rumors of cocaine use are out, as are rumors that Mallett was extremely unpopular with teammates and coaches, and nearly came to blows while at Michigan with Lloyd Carr, who was easily one of the most player friendly coaches in football. The most KNOWN of the off-field issues is that he has been known to be found at the clubs when he should have been in the film room. Supposedly, there's more that are "not public knowledge."

Second, he's dumb as a box of rocks. In fact, I just recieved a letter from the Box of Rocks' legal council telling me to refrain from comparing them to someone as stupid as Mallett. When it's said and done, he may make Vince Young's Wonderlic score look high by the time he takes the test. Decision making has ALWAYS been in question with him.

On field? His footwork sucks, he's got the mobility of an offensive tackle on a 40 and over flag football team; and his release is dreadfully slow.

Then, you throw in the Bobby Petrino factor, and the fact that Petrino has a piss poor history of developing quarterbacks for the next level. The names Dave Raggone, Brian Brohm, Chris Redman and Stefan LeFors will elicit more groans than praise when talking to NFL fans. Perhaps it's the play calling, perhaps it's the coach, however with Mallett one automatically winds up with questions as to whether Mallett isn't just another system QB of Petrino's who will flop on the next level.

Overall Outlook: If I'm a team picking in the first, no matter how big my need for a QB is, I don't touch this guy with a ten foot pole. He's got way too many red flags, topped off by a horrible sense of self entitlement, which dooms QB. In the second or third, picking Mallett is something I maybe consider. It's a hell of a lot easier to cut your losses with a second round or third round bust than a first rounder. High draft pick cuts aren't easy to justify (Buster Davis?) however outside of the first round, you're not taking as big of a risk.

Best Case Scenario: Jay Cutler/ Kerry Collins
Worst Case Scenario: A more immature Derek Anderson

I do not have access to Mallet's SATs so I will not say he is smart or not. He managed to make it into Michigan and had no grade problems. As to being dumb that is way over the top based on the countless interviews I have seen him give on TV and the radio. I recall another QB coming into the NFL who was proclaimed to be totally a dumb a--. He turned out to be Terry Bradshaw and was dumb like a fox. Where this self entitlement comes from I have no idea. Mallet is very coachable and very willing to take the big hits in order to get the ball away. He seems like the ideal teammate listening to his other team players. Come draft day we will see just how dumb NFL teams think Ryan is. He is one of the hardest working players on the team according to his coaches and spends hours upon hours in the film room. Based on his production and going to the Sugar Bowl I do not think he is dumb at all. Dumb is a rather harsh word. You do not have the success he has had at Michigan and Arkansas and be dumb. Listening to some of our QBs in the NFL they seem like they would have a hard time getting out of high school but manage to do rather well. He does not kill dogs but I guess that is not dumb for an all pro type QB. A lot will be cleared up at the combines and the truth will emerge. Will he be a good NFL QB. Who really knows? Is he dumb. I hardly thing so and neither do the people who cover him in this part of the nation. This assessment sounds like it came from team who wanted to down grade him so he could fall to them. First round pick all the way. Mel Kipper does as good a job on researching players as anyone where you like him or not. He has a large staff. I never read anything on Mallet being dumb on any of his assessments. He could fall into the second round if he has a poor showing at the combines but no lower than that and likely the upper level of the second round. I have watched Mallet & Newton play in the SEC since they started. Both have risk as any QB has risk. The big all world TN QB who won the national championship seems like he is having a few problems.

 

[john h]

Blaine Gabbert
Missouri
6'5
235

Strengths: Most of his attributes are obvious.

He's built like an NFL quarterback and can take a pounding. He's physically a strong QB who has good durability.

He has the arm of an NFL quarterback, may have the biggest arm strength of any of the QB in this year's draft.

He has a very good work ethic. He'll make up for his shortcomings by working hard and doing extra study. That's good football IQ in my opinion.

He doesn't come with any of the prima donna tendencies you sometimes expect from a QB, he's very modest and team first oriented. Proof was, after a solid sophomore season, he was told to throw less and hand off the ball more, when it became obvious Missouri's defense could win them games. That's sign of a guy not full of his own crap, and a team first, not me-first guy.

He's a tough competitor, and bounces back from bad plays or losses with a fire in his ass. After the regular season was over, he declared that he had 10 perfect games and two terrible ones ... because Mizzou went 10-2. That's a guy who gets it.

No matter his injuries, you have to tie him down to keep him off the field. I keep stressing this, especially after seeing the Jay Cutler fiasco this weekend.

Weaknesses: He's not accurate, despite what the stats this year tell you. On top of things, 16 touchdowns in a spread offense really doesn't do much to wow anyone. He is ok in short, basic routes, and in one-on-one deep matchups, he puts the ball in play, but anything beyond that is a mess. He often grossly overthrows recievers.

His mechanics are truly awful and in need of major retooling.

His footwork is beyond sloppy most of the time, leading to many overthrows. He will also scramble out of bounds when he truly doesn't need to.

Conditioning has been an enemy of his virtually his entire career.

His pocket presence is poor and he gets rattled very easily. He tends to get happy feet, which in the shotgun formation is concerning.

He was often slow with his reads in Mizzou's otherwise wide open offense.

He also tends to lock on to recievers and his field vision is highly in question.

Playing his entire football career in the shotgun, he's going to need to learn the 3, 5 and 7 step drop. He's also going to have to learn complicated and progressive reads, which is a hell of a lot easier said than done.

Overall Outlook: I like Gabbert.. I think he's a kid with a good attitude, a solid work ethic and a mentality that you want in a QB. The physical tools are also there, but he needs some major, major work. If I'm a scout, I draft him if Locker's off the board, ahead of Mallett and perhaps ahead of Newton.. Perhaps.

I think if given the right system and coaching, he could be alright. But in the modern NFL, that's a huge if.

As is, he's another of the "don't start him right away, or you risk ruining him" type of players. At 5, he's certainly a player the Cardinals cannot afford to gamble on. If they trade down, say to the mid first, possibly. However, I can't shake the thought that a team like Washington or Tennessee will take a gamble on him before then.

Best Case Scenario: Ben Roethlisberger
Worst Case Scenario: Brian Brohm

I think that almost all assessments of QBs I have read indicate Mallet has not only the strongest arm in college football but probably stronger than any in the NFL. When you read about Mallet the first thing you read is his incredible arm strength. I have seen him throw the ball 60 yards with a tackler hanging on one leg. At 6'7" he has very long arms and a big loose body to give him incredible leverage. Who would I draft if I were drafting a QB? I would want the combine numbers before I would make that call. I know it would not be a Max Hall.

 

[john h]

Blaine Gabbert
Missouri
6'5
235

Strengths: Most of his attributes are obvious.

He's built like an NFL quarterback and can take a pounding. He's physically a strong QB who has good durability.

He has the arm of an NFL quarterback, may have the biggest arm strength of any of the QB in this year's draft.

He has a very good work ethic. He'll make up for his shortcomings by working hard and doing extra study. That's good football IQ in my opinion.

He doesn't come with any of the prima donna tendencies you sometimes expect from a QB, he's very modest and team first oriented. Proof was, after a solid sophomore season, he was told to throw less and hand off the ball more, when it became obvious Missouri's defense could win them games. That's sign of a guy not full of his own crap, and a team first, not me-first guy.

He's a tough competitor, and bounces back from bad plays or losses with a fire in his ass. After the regular season was over, he declared that he had 10 perfect games and two terrible ones ... because Mizzou went 10-2. That's a guy who gets it.

No matter his injuries, you have to tie him down to keep him off the field. I keep stressing this, especially after seeing the Jay Cutler fiasco this weekend.

Weaknesses: He's not accurate, despite what the stats this year tell you. On top of things, 16 touchdowns in a spread offense really doesn't do much to wow anyone. He is ok in short, basic routes, and in one-on-one deep matchups, he puts the ball in play, but anything beyond that is a mess. He often grossly overthrows recievers.

His mechanics are truly awful and in need of major retooling.

His footwork is beyond sloppy most of the time, leading to many overthrows. He will also scramble out of bounds when he truly doesn't need to.

Conditioning has been an enemy of his virtually his entire career.

His pocket presence is poor and he gets rattled very easily. He tends to get happy feet, which in the shotgun formation is concerning.

He was often slow with his reads in Mizzou's otherwise wide open offense.

He also tends to lock on to recievers and his field vision is highly in question.

Playing his entire football career in the shotgun, he's going to need to learn the 3, 5 and 7 step drop. He's also going to have to learn complicated and progressive reads, which is a hell of a lot easier said than done.

Overall Outlook: I like Gabbert.. I think he's a kid with a good attitude, a solid work ethic and a mentality that you want in a QB. The physical tools are also there, but he needs some major, major work. If I'm a scout, I draft him if Locker's off the board, ahead of Mallett and perhaps ahead of Newton.. Perhaps.

I think if given the right system and coaching, he could be alright. But in the modern NFL, that's a huge if.

As is, he's another of the "don't start him right away, or you risk ruining him" type of players. At 5, he's certainly a player the Cardinals cannot afford to gamble on. If they trade down, say to the mid first, possibly. However, I can't shake the thought that a team like Washington or Tennessee will take a gamble on him before then.

Best Case Scenario: Ben Roethlisberger
Worst Case Scenario: Brian Brohm

Gabbert seems to be most peoples choice as the number one QB at this point. He may stay there or he may move down after the combines. At this point he would be my number one pick in the draft. This also could change.

 

[Doc Cardinal]

Pat Devlin
Delaware
6'4
227

Strengths: Strengths: Is a solid, accurate passer who can make throws in tight spots.

He has good anticipation, leads his recievers to the ball on crossing routes and deep balls.

Puts the ball in play for the reciever. Wherever the reciever winds up, Devlin will put it in play for them and hit the right spot.

Throws a pretty accurate deep ball, with nice trajectory motions. He also has a quick release and over the top delivery which make his passes sail.

Keeps his eyes downfield when escaping the pocket to the outside. Fairly adequate field vision and pocket presence.

He's a winner. He has a bulldog mentality and doesn't rattle.

He's smart as hell. Will win a lot of games based on his decision making alone.

Weaknesses: His arm strength can be defined as "adequate". Certainly not the cannon arm some of the others in the draft are.

Sometimes tends to lock on a WR and one side of the field. Also, will need to adjust to NFL speed.

Not quite as elusive and quick out of the pocket, not a threat to beat you with his feet.

He'll be making a MAJOR hike in competition in the NFL. While it worked for Joe Flacco (whom he is most compared to), he's also one of a few who have been able to transition from DII to DI. I think he can do it based off his experience on the Division I level at Penn State, however most of his time in Happy Valley was served as a backup.

He also takes WAY too many sacks. That could come back to haunt him in the NFL.

Overall Outlook: At this point, I have Devlin as a high second, possibly low first round prospect. His combine could bump him up a bit, if we saw Flacco move into first round territory a few seasons ago, it's not far off to see Devlin do the same.

I know K9 (and I) have both rallied behind this kid, and will continue to do so. As a 2nd rounder (or even a third), I'd rather see Arizona grab him than a majority of the firsts.

As of now, I see him as the consummate game manager, ultimately can become the "game winner" based off some of his skills.

Best Case Scenario: Joe Flacco
Worst Case Scenario: Ryan Fitzpatrick (hardly a bad thing)

I'm down with drafting this kid in the mid rounds and bringing in a vet QB.

 

[az jam]

Thanks for the analysis (Diamondback Jay). Some excellent work.
My gut feel from your analysis and everything else that I have read is that there really is no qb worth the 5th pick that the Cards have. Perhaps rankings will change between now and the draft with the Senior Bowl, the combine and the individual workouts.

IMO Cards most likely should take the best defensive player at #5 and a qb on a later round along with picking up a veteran qb.

 

[john h]

Thanks for the analysis (Diamondback Jay). Some excellent work.
My gut feel from your analysis and everything else that I have read is that there really is no qb worth the 5th pick that the Cards have. Perhaps rankings will change between now and the draft with the Senior Bowl, the combine and the individual workouts.

IMO Cards most likely should take the best defensive player at #5 and a qb on a later round along with picking up a veteran qb.

My guess is that we will draft for defense but I do not agree with that decision. I think if you do not have a good QB worthy of being the QBOTF then you must draft a QB if you are as high as we are in the draft. QBOTF normally come out of the first round and we are not going to be so lucky as to find one down in round 5. Whiz is fighting for his future and a young QB is not going to pay dividends for a couple of years. He cannot afford to be wrong so will draft a safe pick which will be one of the high profile defensive players. It is called the survival instinct. We sure had better sign a good QB in the free agency group as I do not like going into a season with Skelton (4 games) and Anderson who we all agree is no solution. It could be a long long year if we do not get it right. Other teams are improving all around us in our division.

 

[Matt L]

Jake Locker
Washington
6'3
225

Overall Outlook: Locker is an intriguing prospect. I love his upside and his intangibles. I feel like he's a work in progress type QB who will pay huge dividends down the line. I think of the players at the QB position, he's got the lowest "bust factor", and may be the safest of the reaches. That being said, I don't see him as a Day 1 starter and taking him at five would still be a reach.

Best Case Scenario: Aaron Rodgers
Worst Case Scenario: Jake Plummer

The notes from the senior bowl practice basically say that his throws are inconsistent. He can make a great one and then the next throw will be way off.

I like your write ups and I appreciate the effort you put into them.

IMO, none of these guys are worth picking at #5.

 

[Diamondback Jay]

I do not have access to Mallet's SATs so I will not say he is smart or not. He managed to make it into Michigan and had no grade problems. As to being dumb that is way over the top based on the countless interviews I have seen him give on TV and the radio. I recall another QB coming into the NFL who was proclaimed to be totally a dumb a--. He turned out to be Terry Bradshaw and was dumb like a fox. Where this self entitlement comes from I have no idea. Mallet is very coachable and very willing to take the big hits in order to get the ball away. He seems like the ideal teammate listening to his other team players. Come draft day we will see just how dumb NFL teams think Ryan is. He is one of the hardest working players on the team according to his coaches and spends hours upon hours in the film room. Based on his production and going to the Sugar Bowl I do not think he is dumb at all. Dumb is a rather harsh word. You do not have the success he has had at Michigan and Arkansas and be dumb. Listening to some of our QBs in the NFL they seem like they would have a hard time getting out of high school but manage to do rather well. He does not kill dogs but I guess that is not dumb for an all pro type QB. A lot will be cleared up at the combines and the truth will emerge. Will he be a good NFL QB. Who really knows? Is he dumb. I hardly thing so and neither do the people who cover him in this part of the nation. This assessment sounds like it came from team who wanted to down grade him so he could fall to them. First round pick all the way. Mel Kipper does as good a job on researching players as anyone where you like him or not. He has a large staff. I never read anything on Mallet being dumb on any of his assessments. He could fall into the second round if he has a poor showing at the combines but no lower than that and likely the upper level of the second round. I have watched Mallet & Newton play in the SEC since they started. Both have risk as any QB has risk. The big all world TN QB who won the national championship seems like he is having a few problems.

If the cocaine allegations continue, Mallett will drop much further than the second. Noone wants that kind of cloud hanging over their lockerroom.

I know there's a few teams in the draft who won't touch him, too many off the field flags.

Also, there's this from CBSSports.com's draft profile.

Some have concerns over his maturity level. Has a brash personality that has caused some to question whether he possesses the leadership to handle an NFL huddle. Was never voted a team captain with the Razorbacks despite the fact that quarterbacks are often pushed by coaching staffs as such. Very confident in his own talent and early in his career wasn't known for his dedication to the film room. Arrested for public intoxication on March 1, 2009, in Fayetteville.

 

[Diamondback Jay]

Jake Plummer was a really good quarterback at the NFL level. Not elite, but he was a guy who lead two different franchises to the playoffs.

I think that the worst case scenario for Jake Locker is closer to Josh McCown.

Plummer was a very good QB. I'll go as far as say he's the best QB this franchise has ever had since coming to Arizona, with apologies to Kurt Warner who had a hell of a lot more to work with.

With my Locker- Plummer worst case, it wasn't really meant to be demeaning persay. If he hits, I see him being one of the best QB in the game currently, but if he doesn't hit as expected, in worst case I see him being a QB with staying power (i/e Plummer, who Locker's skills remind me a lot of).

I actually like the McCown comparison too. Not too bad of a call.

 

[Diamondback Jay]

The notes from the senior bowl practice basically say that his throws are inconsistent. He can make a great one and then the next throw will be way off.

I like your write ups and I appreciate the effor you put into them.

IMO, none of these guys are worth picking at #5.

Yep, and it's all dependent on his confidence at the time.

You take Locker's work ethic, intangibles, leadership and footwork and put him with Mallett's confidence and build and you got Peyton Manning IMHO.

 

[Diamondback Jay]

Thanks for the analysis (Diamondback Jay). Some excellent work.
My gut feel from your analysis and everything else that I have read is that there really is no qb worth the 5th pick that the Cards have. Perhaps rankings will change between now and the draft with the Senior Bowl, the combine and the individual workouts.

IMO Cards most likely should take the best defensive player at #5 and a qb on a later round along with picking up a veteran qb.

Thanks.

I agree with you that really at this point, none of the QB at five are really worth looking into, and you can get as much premium getting Andy Dalton in the third (another writeup I've got coming) as you can spending a top 5 pick on any of the first round guys. I think Arizona has to fill the QB role with a veteran this post-season, because none of these guys are NFL ready.

Defense, Defense and Defense is what I take at five. If Patrick Patterson falls under any circumstance, Rod Graves should bulldoze his way to the podium to make the pick. If he's not, I'd not at all be against Akwamara. I'm not sold on Toller and I think DCR- either of these two would be a CB duo to build around. I also think you can get a DE/OLB in the second with the same premium as you would at five.

Just my thoughts though. I'm no expert, I was in favor of the Levi Brown pick at the time LOL.

 

[az jam]

Thanks.

I agree with you that really at this point, none of the QB at five are really worth looking into, and you can get as much premium getting Andy Dalton in the third (another writeup I've got coming) as you can spending a top 5 pick on any of the first round guys. I think Arizona has to fill the QB role with a veteran this post-season, because none of these guys are NFL ready.


Just my thoughts though. I'm no expert, I was in favor of the Levi Brown pick at the time LOL.

Mike Mayock NFL Network is very high on Dalton. He is in the Senior Bowl and I'll be watching the practices and game this week.

As far as making mistakes on draft picks my comments are; If you haven't made any bad choices you are obviously in your first draft or a liar

 

[Diamondback Jay]

Mike Mayock NFL Network is very high on Dalton. He is in the Senior Bowl and I'll be watching the practices and game this week.

As far as making mistakes on draft picks my comments are; If you haven't made any bad choices you are obviously in your first draft or a liar

Hahaha.. Oh so very true.. Oh so very true.

 

[Snakester]

I am not to sure about taking any of the QB's at five. I don't even know if I would take a QB in this draft at all now unless we traded down in the first or picked our guy in the second. And to me, Gabbert and Newton are the guys I would want and neither of them are going to be there in the second round. It's still early yet and guys like Locker, Mallet or Dalton could really show something after the Senior bowl and combine.

 

[Diamondback Jay]

Here comes some more.

Ricky Stansi
Iowa
6'4
230

Strengths:

High football IQ. Stansi is truly a student of the game.

A three year starter against top competition, who's numbers have gotten better each season. Finished third in Iowa school history in wins, touchdown passes, total offense and passing yards.

He's not a scrambler, but is quick enough in the pocket to avoid DE/DT/OLBs and is pretty accurate in this manner.

Has great delivery and his mechanics are solid. Has played against top notch competition and done fairly well for himself.

While he doesn't have the strongest arm, he has one adequate enough to make the throws needed to stretch the field.

Weaknesses: Has a tendancy to force his passes when he shouldn't. His decision making can be puzzling at times.

Tends to panic at times and isn't the most stable force under pressure.

His touch on passes is inconsistent and the longer the throw, the more he struggles.

He's also not the most clutch QB in the world, isn't a guy I'd want running a two minute offense or when down late.

Threw more interceptions than touchdowns at Iowa. With his decision making, I could see him as a guy who throws a moderate number of picks on the next level.

Some say he has upside. I don't think he does. I see him as a "what you see is what you get" type of guy.

Overall Assessment: Stansi's a tough call. I wouldn't mind him in the third. I project him as more of a backup at first, but with the intangibles to be a starter eventually.

Best Case Scenario: Jake Delhomme (the Panthers years)
Worst Case Scenario: Jake Delhomme (Now)

 

[Crazy Canuck]

I do not have access to Mallet's SATs so I will not say he is smart or not. He managed to make it into Michigan and had no grade problems. As to being dumb that is way over the top based on the countless interviews I have seen him give on TV and the radio. I recall another QB coming into the NFL who was proclaimed to be totally a dumb a--. He turned out to be Terry Bradshaw and was dumb like a fox. Where this self entitlement comes from I have no idea. Mallet is very coachable and very willing to take the big hits in order to get the ball away. He seems like the ideal teammate listening to his other team players. Come draft day we will see just how dumb NFL teams think Ryan is. He is one of the hardest working players on the team according to his coaches and spends hours upon hours in the film room. Based on his production and going to the Sugar Bowl I do not think he is dumb at all. Dumb is a rather harsh word. You do not have the success he has had at Michigan and Arkansas and be dumb. Listening to some of our QBs in the NFL they seem like they would have a hard time getting out of high school but manage to do rather well. He does not kill dogs but I guess that is not dumb for an all pro type QB. A lot will be cleared up at the combines and the truth will emerge. Will he be a good NFL QB. Who really knows? Is he dumb. I hardly thing so and neither do the people who cover him in this part of the nation. This assessment sounds like it came from team who wanted to down grade him so he could fall to them. First round pick all the way. Mel Kipper does as good a job on researching players as anyone where you like him or not. He has a large staff. I never read anything on Mallet being dumb on any of his assessments. He could fall into the second round if he has a poor showing at the combines but no lower than that and likely the upper level of the second round. I have watched Mallet & Newton play in the SEC since they started. Both have risk as any QB has risk. The big all world TN QB who won the national championship seems like he is having a few problems.

With respect, this is vitually unreadable without paragraph breaks!

 

[Diamondback Jay]

Andy Dalton
Texas Christian
6'3
220

Strengths: This guy is a winner. Point blank, all he's ever done is win and win big. What he did with TCU over the four years he started there needs to be noticed and documented. He won 41 games on the college level, third most all-time. This isn't Texas, Alabama or Ohio State we're talking about here. The guy won big with TCU... Think about that for a second.

This guy may be the smartest QB in the draft. His decision making is stellar, his read of a defense is exceptional and his football IQ is top of the chart.

He is accurate as hell, completing over 60 percent of his passes in his TCU career.

His decision making is excellent. As such, he does not throw many picks. Threw just 19 in his final three seasons, and under 10 in each.

Is competitive, durable and tough as nails. Would rather cut off limbs than lose.

Is adequate arm strengthwise, to the point where (like Stansi) he can make the throws needed to move the chains and go deep when needed.

Does not force passes and has good field vision. When he doesn't have his original target, he quickly adjusts to find others or will scramble.

Weaknesses: His mechanics need tweaking. His delivery could use some work, and tinkering.

Wasn't forced to make a lot of deep throws or deep reads.

Will need to adjust to a pro style offense, he didn't have one at TCU.

Not the best passer on the run.

Not the most athletic quarterback, isn't a guy who's going to wow you with his athletic ability.

At 6'3, 220 he's not the biggest guy in the draft. While he's durable and tough as nails, his size may scare some off.

Overall Assessment: I love Dalton.. I'm as big of a fan of him as any QB in this draft. I think he's a QB who can win on the NFL level and has long term starter potential if he can fix some of his mechanics. A good coach will do that for him. Size doesn't mean the world to me when it comes to a QB when you have intangibles and accuracy like his. See his best case scenario. To be frank, I'll take one Andy Dalton over 100 Ryan Malletts.

Best Case Scenario: Drew Brees
Worst Case Scenario: Jeff Garcia

 

[cardpa]

Andy Dalton
Texas Christian
6'3
220

Strengths: This guy is a winner. Point blank, all he's ever done is win and win big. What he did with TCU over the four years he started there needs to be noticed and documented. He won 41 games on the college level, third most all-time. This isn't Texas, Alabama or Ohio State we're talking about here. The guy won big with TCU... Think about that for a second.

This guy may be the smartest QB in the draft. His decision making is stellar, his read of a defense is exceptional and his football IQ is top of the chart.

He is accurate as hell, completing over 60 percent of his passes in his TCU career.

His decision making is excellent. As such, he does not throw many picks. Threw just 19 in his final three seasons, and under 10 in each.

Is competitive, durable and tough as nails. Would rather cut off limbs than lose.

Is adequate arm strengthwise, to the point where (like Stansi) he can make the throws needed to move the chains and go deep when needed.

Does not force passes and has good field vision. When he doesn't have his original target, he quickly adjusts to find others or will scramble.

Weaknesses: His mechanics need tweaking. His delivery could use some work, and tinkering.

Wasn't forced to make a lot of deep throws or deep reads.

Will need to adjust to a pro style offense, he didn't have one at TCU.

Not the best passer on the run.

Not the most athletic quarterback, isn't a guy who's going to wow you with his athletic ability.

At 6'3, 220 he's not the biggest guy in the draft. While he's durable and tough as nails, his size may scare some off.

Overall Assessment: I love Dalton.. I'm as big of a fan of him as any QB in this draft. I think he's a QB who can win on the NFL level and has long term starter potential if he can fix some of his mechanics. A good coach will do that for him. Size doesn't mean the world to me when it comes to a QB when you have intangibles and accuracy like his. See his best case scenario. To be frank, I'll take one Andy Dalton over 100 Ryan Malletts.

Best Case Scenario: Drew Brees
Worst Case Scenario: Jeff Garcia

I like the sound of this kid. He seems to be the most NFL ready and may turn into quite the QB inside of two years and some good coaching. Worth a 3rd rounder or trade up to grab him late 2nd.

 

[ARodg]

Dalton impressesd the hell out of me. His ability to run an offense has been beyond reproach his entire college career.

DON'T TAKE A QB AT #5