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2012 Draft
QUARTERBACKS

Andrew Luck 6040 234 Stanford    (Arm: 32½. Hand: 10))

Combine: Forty: 4.67 | BP: DNP | VJ: 36.0 | BJ: 124 | 3C: 6.80 | 20Sh: 4.28 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day (Brandt) - Luck had an outstanding workout. He threw very, very well despite heavy, blowing winds. He throws a real tight spiral, which allows the ball to cut through the wind. He has 10-inch hands, which are not overly big but are above average.

Pro Day (Gollin) - Watched it on NFLN. No surprises. Made every throw. You can't gauge football IQ from a Pro Day workolut. Wiz was at the Stanford Pro Day.

Pro Football Draft Guide - There’s no such thing as a can’t miss QB but Luck has a better chance to turn into an All Pro than any prospect in the past decade

PFW Scout's Candid Comment: "Luck is not special. He's missing something, and it's hard to put your finger on it exactly - I've talked to other GM's around the league and there is no one out there who thinks this guy is (Peyton) Manning or (John) Elway. A winner, yes. A game-changer no..."

From nfl.com - If RG III hadn’t hit the scene, Luck likely would have been considered one of the most sure-thing prospects in the past decade. Prototypical pro-style quarterback who can make all the line calls, formation shifts, pass drops, and throws necessary to be successful at the next level. Will likely be the top pick overall and start immediately/ possesses the intangibles to be a franchise stalwart for years to come.

Intangibles set him apart…has all the traits of a franchise quarterback. Tough, durable and willing to step into a throw under pressure. Has a deliberate set-up with no wasted motion /can play from many different looks…learned under Jim Harbaugh and David Shaw. Has the size to take a hit, and the athletic ability to make plays happen with his feet. On the move, he makes his second and third reads with ease. Very compact and quick release…can fire it out to the flats with ease off one-step drops. Makes fewer and fewer mistakes with each succeeding year….rarely forces a ball into tight coverage. Clean off the field, and rarely makes a mistake on it.  One would be hard-pressed to find negatives to Luck's game. No glaring weaknesses in his play…not the athlete that RG3 is, but that is simply not his game. There were times when Luck second-guessed passes and didn't see a breaking corner coming from another zone, but generally he’ll  identify and improve on this weaknesses

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Better than average mental makeup. Certainly in the upper echelon of college quarterbacks. Tough both mentally and physically. Shoulders a lot of responsibility conducting a pro-style offense. A natural when it comes to checking off the safety. Good at going through progression reads. Protects the football and limits mental errors. Will hang in the pocket and make throws with defenders in his face. Trusts his arm too much. Has a bit of FB mentality. Must learn the value of sliding and protecting his body.

Better than average accuracy. Excellent touch. Knows how to change velocities /throws a very 'catchable' ball. Can drop the ball in-between defenders and make all the necessary throws accurately (has vastly improved his ball placement since 2009 - 2010 season).  Inconsistent with his footwork at times. Gets lazy going from one read to the next and will throw off-balance too often. But makes impressive and accurate throws falling away or with defenders all over him. Could improve deep ball accuracy. Sometimes floats and aims throws.

Upper-echelon arm strength. Gets very good zip on deep outs and can fit the ball into tight spots beyond 15 yards.. Good overall mechanics and a smooth, compact and relatively quick release. Comes over the top most of the time but can also change release points. Will pat the ball before delivering it.

Other QB prospects are faster and more dangerous but few have better pocket presence. Does not abort the pocket when unnecessary. Consistently can sidestep or step up to avoid the rush, and will reset within the pocket rather than taking off prematurely. But can extend plays outside of the pocket and keeps eyes downfield. Knows when to tuck the ball and run. Good speed for his size and vision and competitiveness as a runner.

Robert Griffin III 6023 223  Baylor  (Arm: 32¼. Hand: 9½)

Combine: Forty: 4.41 | BP: DNP | VJ: 39.0 | BJ: 120 | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - The workout was outstanding. I’m not sure whether he or Andrew Luck should be the No. 1 overall draft pick. Of the 51 passes that he threw, just two weren’t catchable. His arm strength is very, very good; he threw the ball with ease 60 yards down the field. His anticipation was very good; he was able to hit receivers coming across the field.Griffin has excellent feet, and he’s equally good going to his right or his left. Many players are better off going one way or the other, but he was equally impressive both ways.There’s no question in my mind, after seeing him work out today, that he’s going to be a very, very good NFL quarterback in the future. He’s got everything you need in a passing arm, and he’s got speed and quickness of feet. I talked to a linebackers coach after the workout, and he said he hopes he doesn’t have to play against Griffin more than once every three or four years.

Pro Football Draft Guide - Like Cam Newton a year ago, Griffin’s athleticism overshadows the strides he’s made as a passer. That athleticism will allow him to survive until he fully grasps and NFL offense.

From nfl.com - Some say RG3 is not only the most physically gifted quarterback in the 2012 draft, but also the most talented player…overall. Intangibles are making many general managers swoon. Because of his athleticism and ability to extend plays , focus on moving the ball downfield and his hurdling ability, some feel he’s a better prospect than Luck. Either way, RG3 likely will be a top-five pick and is so talented that teams who already young quarterbacks  will have a tough time passing up him up.

A talented quarterback built for the position…slightly undersized, but his athletic ability allows him tomake plays with his feet, extend plays, make the deep throw, and lead his team down the field. Same natural talents as Cam Newton  sans the size. Simply  so athletic that defenders rarely get a shot at him…extremely explosive.. drops back with absolute ease. Unafraid to to step into a throw in traffic, or reset outside the pocket. Uunlike Luck, he can also move the chains with his feet. Senior year reaffirmed that he is an athletic quarterback rather than vice versa (i.e. a guy who can make all the smart throws first, and create later if necessary).

Lacks prototypical size and could have durability issues if he is hit often enough (but should be athletic enough to avoid big hits, even at the pro-level.   Some might worry that he will look to run first at the next level. Had only one strong season in college, but performed well on a big stage.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Better than average head for position. Baylor's Offense does not translate to the NFL game, but mobility gives him more room for error than many other QB prospects. Has a lot to learn about identifying coverages and hot reads. Lack of ideal height leads to some problems seeing entire field, but is an intelligent and disciplined individual. Great work ethic / capable of digesting a new system quickly.

Short accuracy is still a work in progress (lacks ideal touch and must learn to take some mustard off his fastball. Can be a bit off-target on underneath throws, which lessens RAC opportunities. Intermediate accuracy is above-average – will miss within the strike zone at times -- but can anticipate passing windows and fit the ball into tight spots. Deep accuracy vastly improved - drop the ball in between defenders. Above average anticipation on deep throws. Very good touch and improvement in trajectory awareness. Can hit target from many different release points"

Smooth delivery. Little bit longer release than ideal but not a wind-up delivery. Very smooth and relaxed. Ball explodes off his hand. Arm strength just a notch below NFL-elite. Can make all the throws and can driving the ball down the field with ease. Can get great velocity on throws even when forced to short-stride or when he can’t drive off back foot. Smaller-than-ideal hands will struggle at times to grip-and-rip on shorter throws. Lacks great control on pump fakes. Some balls batted down at the line of scrimmage.

"Rare athleticism and speed for the position. Will become one of the most dynamic dual-threat QBs in the NFL / in the same class as Michael Vick. Above-average pocket presence. Initial quickness is outstanding. Few college QBs buy more second-chance passing opportunities. Comfortable rolling out and throwing to both sides. Elite foot quickness, elusiveness and burst as a runner.

Ryan Tannehill 6037 221 Texas A&M (Arm: 32½. Hand: 9)

Combine: DNP. Forty: 4.62 | BP: DNP | VJ: DNP | BJ: DNP | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

 Pro day - After his performance at the Texas A&M pro day Thursday, I think there’s a very good chance he can be a top pick in the NFL draft in April.. The skill set that he showed was really, really good. He had an outstanding workout. He moves around well, he’s got accuracy and he’s got good velocity on the ball. It’s just going to be how people see him, as to where he’s going to get drafted. He has excellent ability and skills. He put on a show Thursday.

Tannehill threw 68 passes in a scripted workout coordinated by Chris Weinke, a former NFL QB who has been training Tannehill recently. A&M players Jeff Fuller and Cyrus Gray served as Tannehill’s receivers.Fifteen of Tannehill’s passes were on the goal line, and the rest were on the 30-yard line going downfield. He missed one long pass and had two drops; otherwise, he was perfect. He also did the 40-yard dash in 4.62 seconds, running it just once.

As good as Tannehill’s performance was, it did take place “against air,” so to speak. There were no defensive backs there; nobody was engaging receivers coming off the line. But he spins the ball well; it comes out of his hand quickly. He does all of the things you look for on the field. If he works at the off-the-field preparation, like I think he will, I think he has a chance to be a very good NFL quarterback.

He’s a big, strong kid that can rip the ball. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.62 seconds, but we all knew he was athletic already because he’s a former wide receiver. His foot is fine. He threw the ball extremely well on short, intermediate and deep passes. His movement skills in the pocket were excellent; he had good feet and good accuracy on the run. Everything checks out.

I expected to see all that. This was a scripted workout and it confirmed what I saw on tape. Potentially, down the road, he could be a franchise quarterback. The problem is, he’s not ready to play right now. He’s very raw; he only had 19 starts in college. However, because the NFL is so overheated right now when it comes to finding franchise quarterbacks, I think the kid is probably going to go higher than he should. I think Cleveland has to take him at No. 4, and if they don’t, Miami is sitting there at No. 8. So the worst-case scenario for him is, I think, that he’s going to go at No. 8 to the Dolphins. But I don’t think he’s ready to play Day 1. I don’t think he trusts his reads yet. He’s got a long way to go, but I think he’s got the tools necessary to be a franchise quarterback.

Mayock Pre-Senior Bowl Position Rank: 3.

PFW Scout's Candid Comment: "What you have to keep in mind when you're looking at Tannehill - Mike Sherman's offense is not very good. (He) has plenty of arm talent. He's athletic, he can move around, he's got a ton of upside. If you have time to sit him, you can hit big in a few years."

Pro Football Draft Guide -  He probably needs another year to get ready, but a potentially solid starter in a West Coast offense

From nfl.com - Dynamic athlete who was a major contributor at receiver for his first 2+ college years. More of a gunslinger early on as a QB, but has morphed into an effective and efficient pocket passer. A fierce competitor with the overall tools to be a first- or second-round pick.

Calm dropping back from center…it’s obvious that he is a natural athlete at the position. Good feel for pressure and has made his scrambling ability a heavy asset in the passing game as a play-extender. Mechanically sound / can anticipate where the receiver will be… fairly consistent accuracy on all throws and a consummate running threat. Only one year’s collegiate experience but has demonstrated he has the arm and decision to make it in the NFL. Did a lot to dispel inexperience concerns in his senior year, but he will need to continue to develop before he’s ready to start.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Physically tough with enough mental toughness to succeed at the position. Best football appears in front of him. Natural leader on the field with clear command of huddle. Goes through progressions and very effective when pre-snap read and first option aren’t there. But has limited game experience, and his rawness shines through at times. Forces too many throws into coverage. Competitive edge gets the best of him and he’ll try to make plays that aren't there. Must learn the value of ball security and when to throw it away.

"Good anticipation and ability to deliver the ball before the receiver makes his break. A bit unpolished with mechanics - especially with footwork. Does not always step to target or throw on balance which can cause him to miss the mark. Ball placement must improve /he forces receivers to adjust on routine throws. Much more accurate with short-to-intermediate throws than as a deep thrower (Deep throws can occasionally sail). Appears more comfortable targeting the middle of the field than outside the numbers. Usually throws accurately on the run both rolling left and right. "

¾ to sidearm release, but gets it out quickly and can release the ball accurately from a variety of launch points.. Low release point raises slight concerns about batted balls. Arm strength is adequate-to-good / can make all the NFL throws. Lacks elite ability to stretch the field vertically.

Above-average athleticism and quick feet within the pocket. Can break contain and buy time to extend plays. But must do a better job of keeping eyes downfield when avoiding the rush. Long strider who can move the sticks with feet if he can gain the perimeter. Lacks a natural feel in the pocket, must show more poise and vacates the pocket too quickly.

Brett Osweiler 6067 242  Arizona State (Arm: 33¾.  Hand: 9¾)

Combine: DNP Forty: 4.97 | BP: DNP | VJ: DNP | BJ: DNP | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Osweiler sprained his foot in ASU’s loss to the Boise State in the Las Vegas Bowl, an injury that kept him from participating in the combine. One day after Ryan Tannehill wowed NFL scouts and coaches with his workout, Osweiler did the same, launching himself into first-round consideration.

He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.98 and 4.97 seconds indoors on FieldTurf. He threw for those in attendance, but did not do any other drills. Osweiler threw 72 passes, with seven hitting the ground. The seven misses were not, however, an indicator of wildness; his accuracy was very good. He presented himself very well, which is important for a quarterback, and interacted well with his receivers.

Despite his height, he is very flexible and has a solid throwing platform. Mazzone has worked with him to correct a tendency to drop his elbow, which Osweiler avoided doing on Friday. Based on Friday’s workout, I think Osweiler vaulted himself into the first round on draft day. He will likely work out for a number of teams; there is a lot of excitement surrounding him. His showing Friday was somewhat surprising; I think he exceeded the expectations of everybody in attendance. Osweiler has a lot of upside, and some team with a need at the position will be tempted late in the first round.

PFW Scout's Candid Comment: "The big guy has a lot of talent to work with now. He's not ready, but he has the "tools" - sick size, athletic ability, and he's a passer, not a thrower. The senior class is gross."

Pro Football Draft Guide – Brings an unprecedented package of size and athleticism. A developmental QB but has starting potential in an offense that emphasizes the deep ball.

From nfl.com - Intriguing early-entry prospect out of ASU. Two year starter.  Good athlete for the position. Basketball background. Has the arm strength to be a first-day pick but lacks  first round  consistency .

Has a very deliberate, quick-twitch setup … athleticism allows him to play the position naturally and with ease. Slings the ball naturally. Release is so compact and effective he can get away with patting the ball  Shining asset is his arm strength; (he can make all the NFL throws).Good leader who looks in control in the huddle and on the field. Above average accuracy and knows when to add touch to the ball or to zip it. Has the pocket presence of a first-day pick and doesn't go down easily. Can extend plays with his feet.  Had on-the-field judgment issues throughout his college career and has ball-protection issues. The more confidence he builds, the more of a gun-slinger mentality he adopts - tThis severely hinders his play. When under control, early in games, he is athletic, accurate, and a good game manager. Will need to learn to rein in some of his more competitive traits. Developmental prospect who might struggle if forced to play early on.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Comes from a spread system /will need time to adjust to pro system. Tough competitor on the field and not afraid to sit the pocket and deliver throw while taking a hit or give up body as a runner. Seems to have the mental capacity to adapt / sees the entire field and get to second and third progression during film study. Good at holding safeties and not tipping his hand with initial drop. Sometimes trusts arm too much. Some inconsistency vs. blitz.

A lot of room to grow, but naturally accurate due to athleticism and very good hand-eye coordination. Will need coaching and polish with mechanics and footwork . Will short-hop throws when over-striding with front foot. Has big hands that swallow the ball and allow him to deliver an accurate throw off-balance. Can drive the ball and fit throws into tight windows (only a very few prospects and a handful of NFL quarterbacks can do what he can do). Still developing in terms of projection and ball speed with deep throws. Excellent upside in this area with proper coaching and development. "

¾ release but lower release point does not appear to be an issue due to height. Will pat the ball which can tip off defenders at the next level. But his release is compact and he gets the ball out quickly for a quarterback his height. Also can change up release points on the move. Arm strength a notch below elite but can make all the NFL throws. Can drive the ball down field and stretch the field vertically.

"Height and long limbs make for a big tackling target inside the pocket. But much more athletic and agile than Joe Flacco,  Ryan Mallett. Etc. Basketball background translates to maneuvers inside the pocket. Has a natural feel for the rush and good at keeping eyes downfield. Ball security a glaring issue /must do a better job of keeping both hands on the ball inside the pocket. Will never be a running threat is able to break contain and extend plays on the perimeter. Mobile enough to pick up yards and move the chains with his feet.

Nick Foles 6050 243 Arizona (Arm: 34¼. Hand: 10½)

Combine: Forty: 5.14 | BP: DNP | VJ: 30.5 | BJ: 112 | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day — Foles ran the 40-yard dash in 5.04 and 5.03 seconds. He had a 33-1/2-inch vertical and a 9-0 broad jump. He did the short shuttle in 4.60 seconds and did the three-cone in 7.27 seconds. Foles was nothing special; he was okay in his quarterback workout.

Pro Football Draft Guide – Should have a lengthy NFL career. But he seems less franchise QB and more the guy you’d plug in until something better comes around.

From nfl.com - Has  the arm strength and size that warrants first-day consideration . A mechanically sound passer with a solid release. Buried within a quarterback-laden draft class. Big-time leader who rarely gets rattled. Lack of athleticism a concern (projected as more of a "game manager" type) . But  should be at least a serviceable starter at the next level. A team that falls in love with his arm strength, could draft him as early as the second round.

Strong arm. Sometimes will throw the deep, cross-field out-route (under pressure and from his back foot) accurately and with ease. Not the most athletic quarterback, but  aware in the pocket & with a good sense of how and when to extend a play. Strong deep passer but can struggle with accuracy at times. Accurate on short to intermediate throws… would be more valuable in a West Coast scheme. Excellent game manager. Extremely poised in the pocket and rarely lets a heavy pass rush rattle him.

Mobility has been his Achilles heel…solely a pocket passer /hardly ever moves the chains with his feetCan extend, but he is not going to out-run anyone at the next level. There are times when the ball can get away from him when throwing deep…release is OK but not fast by any means. Judgment with the ball is somewhat questionable, (can be slow to get rid of the ball and tends to scramble into trouble).

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Knows how to go through progressions. No longer panics when first read fails him. Will miss some open receivers at times but knows how to scan the entire field and work back to his third and fourth reads. Poise and anticipation much improved in 2011. Physically and mentally tough. Will hang in the pocket and take a big hit in order to deliver the ball. Still makes some questionable decisions - must limit amount of risks he takes when defenders are wrapping him up.

Overall accuracy is good. Good balance as a passer and generally will step to his target and follow through. A bit erratic on fades and back shoulder throws. Will miss inside the strike zone and must improve ball placement consistency.  Has improved his touch and timing. Throws a very catchable ball and knows how to lead his receivers after catch on underneath throws. Most underrated aspect of his game is accuracy under pressure – completed 65-percent of his throws under pressure - among the elite in the 2012 draft class.

Compact ¾ release. Has very few passes batted down. Will change release point if necessary. Arm strength good but not elite. Can make all the necessary throws and drive the ball down the field vertically.

Limited overall athlete. Takes too many sacks. Slow footed and takes too long to get on the move. Can extend plays but is limited in terms of elusiveness and will not pose as a running threat at the next level. But his poise under pressure is much improved. Creativity and playmaking ability after initial play broke down has improved. A big, sturdy QB who frequently can make throws with defenders hanging fall over his lower body.

Brandon Weeden 6036 Oklahoma State (Arm: 31¾. Hand: 9½)

Combine: Forty: DNP | BP: DNP | VJ: DNP | BJ: DNP | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - The 28-year-old ran 4.95 seconds in the 40, posted a 32-inch vertical jump, 8-6 broad jump, 4.49-second short shuttle and 7.40-second three-cone drill. He looked very good throwing, tossing only one uncatchable pass.

Pro Football Draft Guide – The age factor will rightly push him down, but Weeden is a safe pick. We think he tops out as a quality No. 2.

From nfl.com - Pro baseball background. Weeden has been the signal caller for one of the country's most efficient offenses. Poised, effective with great pocket presence  - makes quick decisions with the ball to keep the chains moving. Rarely throws interceptions despite a high number of attempts /could go as high as the second round.

Has an NFL-quality frame that Quick release is his strongest asset -consistently gets the ball out with a compact throwing motion and strong delivery. Ball zips off his arm /he can fit it in any tight space with great velocity. He is "all of the above" in terms of being a mature, poised leader. Accurate passer both short and long, with that gunslinger mentality to go for the deep ball and give his receivers a chance. Understands route progressions and how to throw ball to where his guy can make a play.

Only an average athlete and very limited when scrambling. Tough time getting outside the pocket/ his accuracy and touch decrease immensely when he scrambles. Seems to grasp route concepts and looks for his second option, but he will hold the ball too long.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Plays in a spread system and has almost no experience working under center. Gun-slinger type mentality Must continue to cut down on forced throws . Hangs tough in pocket and will go through progressions. Patient in the pocket / keeps his eyes down the field. Physically and mentally tough. Capable of leading his team from behind and delivering in clutch.

Exceptionally accurate when he has a clean pocket and can step into his throws. Above average anticipation and timing. Knows how to take mustard off fastball and throw a more catchable ball underneath. Can throw accurately from different launch points. Puts good air under deep ball, but a high percentage of his throws were made within 10 yards of the LOS. Struggles with his accuracy when throwing under pressure.

Baseball background. Tends to pat the ball before delivery / release point is closer to three-quarters than over-the-top (raising concerns about batted balls). However, he has a quick delivery and the ball explodes off of his hand. Throws a tight spiral more often than not. Overall arm strength is just a notch below elite.

Overall pocket awareness has improved  but remains only average at best. Tends to drift backwards vs. outside pressure rather than stepping up in the pocket. But showed more patience in the pocket as a senior and does a good job of keeping his eyes down the field. Adequate athletic ability for position. Can slide and buy some second chances but lacks ideal foot quickness. Will never be a running threat.

Kirk Cousins 6025 214 Michigan State (Arm: 31¾. Hand: 9¾)

Combine: Forty: 4.93| BP: DNP | VJ: 28.5 | BJ: 109 | 3C: 7.05 | 20Sh: 4.50 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Scripted his own workout and threw for about 25 minutes. He was very accurate in short and intermediate routes but missed a couple of long throws. Scouts said he worked out real well — was what you expected. Right now he ranks as the fifth-best quarterback in the draft. I would say if Minnesota, Seattle and Cleveland had their QB coaches there, they would think of him in the second round.

BRS (Gollin) - Once upon a time, there was this unspectacular dude who ran the Michigan offense efficiently but was drafted late. His name: Tom Brady. (Just sayin')

PFW Scout's Candid Comment: "I wish (Cousins) had more juice in his arm, but it's difficult not to like everything else about him."

Pro Football Draft Guide He should stick as a backup, but Cousins’ poor decision-making should prevent him from earning a starting job

From nfl.com - Three-year captain, at Michigan State. Self-made guy, a tireless worker with deficiencies that could hurt his pro potential. Not a very strong deep thrower  (velocity is OK, but his accuracy is questionable). Could get drafted based on his experience and intangibles, but will need to put on size and fine-tune certain throwing deficiencies to catch on at the next level. Has late-round value to a team as a potential backup.

Has all the intangibles to be  an NFL quarterback . An accurate and safe thrower who knows how to pick his spots. A good athlete who can make plays on the run, but won’t run past many NFL defenders. Safe pick as a backup option.  Widely considered to be a game manager type at the next level. Makes good decisions with the ball but has not shown he can make big plays to move the offense and win games. Will need talent around him to succeed.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - 39 career starts in a pro-style system and will be ahead of the learning curve in terms of understanding protections and making pro-style reads. Goes through progressions but doesn't always see the entire field and will lock onto target at times. Structurally sound / plays within the system. Will take his check downs / knows when to throw the ball away.. Will get into trouble trying thread the needle. Solid internal clock under pressure. Tough both physically and mentally. Will sit in the pocket and deliver throw knowing he is going to take a shot. Smart with a good feel for situational football. Fairly successful running the two minute drill with the game on the line.

Above-average accuracy when on schedule and throwing with good rhythm and timing. Adequate touch / can change up projections and ball-speeds to drop the ball into a window on intermediate throws. Can throw receivers open away from coverage. Accuracy will dip when he doesn’t set feet /not adept at consistently delivering accurate throws when offbalance. Will fall off throws throwing to his left. Deep ball accuracy is adequate but there’s room for improvement in touch and projection.

Over-the-top to ¾ release. A bit of a wind up but gets the ball out relatively quickly. Can make all the necessary NFL throws. Adequate zip on deep outs from opposite hash. But lacks (Matt Stafford or Joe Flacco) elite arm strength to stretch the field vertically.

Limited overall athlete. Moves well enough to buy time within the pocket. Can feel edge pressure and climb the pocket when needed. But doesn't always sense backside pressure and can hold onto the ball too long. Lacks elite ability to escape pressure and buy time. Will never be a running threat at the next level.

Darron Thomas 6026 220 Oregon (Arm: 32¾. Hand: 9½)

Combine: Forty: 4.80 | BP: 14 | VJ: 36.0 | BJ: 121| 3C: 7.17 | 20Sh: 4.28 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - The early-entrant signal caller ran a 4.80 40-yard dash and had a 35 1/2-inch vertical jump and a 10-6 broad jump.

Pro Football Draft Guide – The Tim Tebow phenomenon has certainly opened a few minds when it comes to athletic non-passers under center, but  Thomas is even further away than Tebow is. He seems like a practice squad body who could have the potential to contribute down the line under a creative coordinator.

From nfl.com - Passed up his senior year. Only a year removed from appearing in the national championship game, he had an extremely productive year. Has some intriguing aspects to his game and potemntially could be taken as a flier in the late rounds.

There is something to be said for being able to run such a high-tempo spread option offense like the one run at Oregon. Excellent game manager. Deceptively big and strong, and ( at 6'3" 215 pounds) has good size for the NFL. Room to add more weight to his frame. Can make quick decisions with the ball and is an accurate passer in the short to intermediate game. A threat as a runner and can get zip on some of his balls.

Must develop a quicker release.  Although he releases the ball at a nice high point, he has a lot of wasted motions that delay the timing of routes. Often made easy, dump-off throws in cllege and wasn't relied upon to put the ball in tight spots. Not the open-field athlete that his pocket movements might suggest.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Comes from a fast-paced spread attack and has very limited experience taking snaps from under center. Must learn how to make reads while dropping. Can  go through progressions with good tempo. Good poise in the pocket and cool under pressure but also has made some critical errors. Must be more consistent with his decision making and production while under pressure.

Inconsistent accuracy, but can make some difficult throws look easy at times. Good accuracy when he steps toward his target and transfers weight from back-to-front, but gets sloppy with his footwork and needs to become more diligent. Not a natural spinner. Does not get great rpm’s on the ball. Not accurate enough when throwing in the face of the pass rush. Must be more consistent with his touch on underneath throws; (tries to throw too many fastballs when touch needed). Will make tough throws when throwing on the run. Lacks ideal height and seems to struggle finding clean passing windows. Has too many balls batted down..

"Long, wind-up delivery a significant concern. Release is over-the-top but he’ll dip the ball down and take entirely too long to get from Point A to Point B. Overall arm strength adequate but not elite. Can get good zip on intermediate throws and can fit the ball into tight spots when he really gets his body behind the throw. Struggles to consistently drive the ball down the field but is capable of making all the throws so long as the ball comes out on time and he has room to follow through on delivery.

Quick feet. Generally feels pressure on time and is agile enough to consistently buy extra time. Good at resetting his feet. Will hang tough in the pocket and take the hit in order to buy time for receiver to get open. Adept at throwing accurately on the run. Average speed and elusiveness for the position, and is a better-than-average threat to run.

Ryan Lindley 6036 229  San Diego State (Arm: 32½. Hand: 10)

Combine: Forty: 4.90 | BP: DNP | VJ: 29.5 | BJ: 108 | 3C: 7.52 | 20Sh: 4.45 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Put on a show, completing 67 of 73 passes on the day despite not working with any of his own receivers. Lindley is very smart and has good arm strength. He should be a fourth-round draft pick.

BRS (Gollin) - Not my favorite Cardinal pick. Wasn't impressed by his tendency to make mental errors in post season. Hope he proves me wrong.

Pro Football Draft Guide – His arm makes him worth a look, but Lindley has a ways to go before he can see the field. He’s a #3 with the potential to become a quality #2.

From nfl.com - Athletic signal caller with first-round physical talent  (Strongest senior thrower in this year's draft, Can make cross-field deep out throws with ease. Athletic in his pass set /good at surveying the field for his second and third reads. Has problems in judgment / getsinto trouble with interceptions and poorly placed balls. Solely on his size and arm strength , Lindley could be selected in the late third round

He has a very lively arm and can drive the ball from anywhere on the field off his back foot. When he is having a good game, Lindley can thread the needle and put the ball on a receiver in stride 65 yards down the field. Athletic in his pass set and can extend plays / fend off would-be rushersA developmental talent who has value to teams who are willing to be patient with him. Could develop into a starter based off his size and arm strength.

But he has been inaccurate at times  - will throw an NFL pass on one play, and then come back to make a bad decision and put his team in trouble on the next. Athletic but can be a slow mover and take sacks when he holds on to the ball too long. Most of his issues stem from his inconsistency throwing the ball on intermediate and deep routes.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Gunslinger who puts too much faith in arm strength and throws into coverage far too often. Inconsistent with his reads. Makes far too many questionable decisions, especially when pocket is collapsing around him. Tough and willing to hang in the pocket. Goes through progressions and Can manipulate coverage with eyes but has room to improve. Smart and picks things up quickly but film room work doesn't always transfer to the field."

Very good touch and timing on deep throws over the middle. Can put the ball where the receiver can run under it when throwing down the sideline. Can make tough throws look easy, but is far too inconsistent with his accuracy. Everything he does feels rushed. Struggles with touch throws. Tries to sling everything. Not natural at taking velocity off the ball. Does not do well when forced to change release points.

Over-the-top and quick release. Natural and relaxed follow through when footwork is sound. Arm strength a notch below elite. Puts the ball on a rope when throwing outside the hashes. Can thread the needle. Can stretch the field vertically and made some impressive throws on film. Can drive the ball vertically. Doesn't have to set or step into throw to put adequate zip on pass.

Pocket presence and mobility below average. Takes a split longer to set than most quarterbacks when dropping from under center. Senses pressure off the edge and keeps eyes downfield when stepping up, but not quick enough to get outside the pocket and can’t move well enough laterally to consistently sidestep pressure up the middle.

Kellen Moore 5116 197  Boise State (Arm: 30¼. Hand: 9½)

Combine: Forty: 4.94 | BP: DNP | VJ: 27.0 | BJ: 99 | 3C: 7.41| 20Sh: 4.56 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Moore was the winningest quarterback in NCAA history, but teams are concerned about his height and whether he will be able to make all the necessary throws in the NFL. After taking in his workout Thursday, most scouts think he might never be more than a very successful backup in a timing-based system.

BRS (Gollin) - Just for the sake of argument - If Joe Montana were to come out in 2012 (given the recent trend toward big, athletic, mobile &/or big-armed QB's), would he do as well in today's NFL then he did in his heyday?

Pro Football Draft Guide – A classic overachiever. Moore will stick in the NFL. But, with his lack of arm-strength, it’s tough to see him ever becoming a starter.

From nfl.com - Moore has been at the forefront of draft discussions for years (about whether his incredible accuracy and intangibles -  as the undisputed leader for a perennial Boise State winner - are enough to offset physical limitations – most notably lack of size and arm strength). Look for a team to take Moore in the late rounds looking to bring in a strong leader, heady quarterback, and potential backup onto their team.

A  strong leader / very poised in the pocket and under pressure. Quick pass set that is balanced and under control. Gets rid of the ball quickly and picks his spots effectively, although his release is slightly a 3/4 sidearm. Has all the intangibles and is a very accurate thrower both short and long. Understands route progressions and how to put touch on the ball. Will scan the field and locate his second and third options.. But he is just under six feet tall… struggles when throwing on the run and working outside the pocket…a very slow mover with his feet.  Biggest knock on Moore is his arm strength. Often lobs the ball and puts touch on his deep outs and will likely be intercepted early in the NFL if he can't learn to drive it harder.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Cerebral QB who does an efficient job of orchestrating a pro-style offense. Great at getting pre/post snap reads. Diagnoses coverages quickly and has very good anticipation and timing with throws. Sound decision maker who can get through progressions and rarely forces throws into coverage. Understands the value of ball security and willing to take check downs. Holds a 99-19 TD/INT ratio through first three seasons. Arguably the most poised, efficient and effective QBs in all of football running the two-minute drill with the game on the line.

Throws a catchable ball. Very accurate with short-throws and rarely forces targets to adjust to the ball. Excellent touch /candrop the ball in the bucket with fade/go routes. Can change ball speeds and projection with intermediate crossing passes. Makes accurate throws off of back foot. But too often falls away with throws. Accuracy can also dip when he tries to drive the ball into tight window downfield.

¾ release. Lower release point combined with lack of height brings up concerns for batted down balls. But does an excellent job of changing release points when need be. Arm strength average at best. Will have issues driving the ball down field and ball can hang in the air on deeper out routes. Will have to rely on above-average anticipation and timing to be successful at the next level.

Lacks speed and elusiveness to be a running threat. But quick with great poise in the pocket. Naturally feels the rush and does a great job of maneuvering to buy time while keeping eyes down field. While he lacks height he does a nice job of finding throwing lanes to deliver throw. Can buy break contain and extend play outside of the pocket if need be. Must do a better job of keeping both hands on the ball to protect the ball inside the pocket.

Russell Wilson 5015 204  203 Wisconsin (Arm: 31. Hand: 10`¼)

Combine: Forty: 4.55 | BP: DNP | VJ: 34.0 | BJ: 118 | 3C: 6.97 | 20Sh: 4.09| 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Put on a show .Everyone is scared of quarterbacks who measure under 6-feet, but Wilson looked absolutely great. This guy whistles the ball. they say he only had four passes blocked at Wisconsin this past year — that’s outstanding for a short guy. His stock is rising.

BRS (Gollin) - The next Doug Flutie?

PFW Scout's Candid Comment: "Wilson is as raw as can be, but I've warmed up to him. He's going to play in the league. He's really improved throwing the ball."

Pro Football Draft Guide – The combination of athleticism and arm will be enough to earn him a backup role and a chance to play in some special packages, but he’s a longshot to become a starting QB.

From nfl.com - Big-time question mark at quarterback. If he were three inches taller there would be debate at the top of the draft as to where he fits in A stellar passer with arm strength and accuracy when he is able to deliver the ball without a hitch. Outstanding football intelligence (picked up the Wisconsin offense as a NC transfer this past year and in so short a time became opening-day starter). But, given his short stature, teams will have concerns whether or not he can see over the LOS to make throws at the next level. A mechanical mover with strong technique and leadership qualities.. Look for teams to take a flier on him in late rounds to see if he can develop and outplay his size.

Accurate passer. Very mechanical  - consistent in his drop -step and thoroughly understands how to move within the pocket and evade when the pocket collapses. Can torque his body to make any sort of throw on the run, and is accurate in doing so. A born signal caller  with command of the offense. Has the arm strength to make the deep throws and the touch to put it on a receiver in stride. Effective when scrambling  - a classic play extender. Short height will be his biggest  problem at the next level (and the largest reason for his late-round value). It remains to be seen if he can throw effectively from the pocket at the next level.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Four-year starter who’s excelled in two different offenses and a leader for two different teams over the past two seasons. Above average awareness with a strong grasp of both offenses he's played in. But an inconsistent decision maker / size appears to play bigger role than mental makeup. Inability to see the entire field causes him to throw into coverage. While he occasionally gets rattled in the face of pressure, his poise is generally above average.

Will occasionally miss the strike zone / deep accuracy is especially inconsistent but timing is above average and can pound the strike zone when gets into a rhythm and has a clear sightline. Hits receivers in stride when gets a clear passing window. Accurate rolling right and left. But accuracy dips considerably when forced to throw from inside the pocket.

Pats the ball before starting his throwing motion. Gets ball out quickly once he's made a decision. Big hands for frame and can pump the ball without losing grip. Average to slightly above average overall arm strength.

Senses pressure. Can step up to avoid pressure off the edge though he can struggle locating receivers downfield when does. Can spin away from pressure. Freezes defenders with quick feet. As effective rolling left as is rolling right. A threat to tuck and run when gets a seam.

Casey Keenum 6005 208 Houston (Arm: 30¾. Hand: 9

Combine: Forty: 4.82 | BP: DNP | VJ: 32.5 | BJ: 103 | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Ran a 4.30 40 (Ed Note - That forty time has to be a typo) and had a time of 6.88 seconds in the three cone. Keenum did 18 lifts on the bench and looked good throwing the ball. Keenum is one of the most productive quarterbacks in college football history, setting the record for overall passing yardage in a career.

Pro Football Draft Guide – Consider that many  of the records he broke belonged to Hawaii’s Tommy Chang who never got close to an NFL roster spot. Keenum is a similar prospect. When you look past the numbers, he’s a borderline NFL prospect.

From nfl.com - One of the most highly productive quarterbacks in college football history. (If numbers were pure projections to the next level, Keenum would be the undisputed top pick). Unfortunately for him, his height might limit him as he moves to the next level. It's obvious that Keenum is an accurate and prolific passer working from inside the pocket. How that production translates to the NFL is the big question.

He had an ungodly amount of production while at Houston - a good, mechanical thrower who makes quick decisions within the scheme. Understands how to read defenses and pick his spots in zones. Accurate thrower who puts good touch on his throws to lead his receivers. Good at extending the play and working outside the pocket. But he’s an undersized prospect (will need to show he can throw effectively from the pocket. Could be considered the beneficiary of an effective, high-octane collegiate spread offense.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Played in a spread shotgun attack that runs a lot of screens and is misdirection heavy. Didn't always make sound reads after the snap. Put too much faith in arm strength and forced the ball into coverage too often. Can throw the ball away when situations call for it but is inconsistent in this area /takes too many chances in the face of pressure. (Took a 21-yard sack in the 2009 East Carolina game). Can scanned the field and check down when pass protection is sound. Will fight for yards after contact when scrambling.

Can lead receivers and hit stationary targets in the numbers but timing and footwork affect deep accuracy. Can be a quarter-count late delivering the ball and will throw behind receivers. Above-average touch but ball can also sail when attacking the deep middle.

Can get the ball out of hands in a flash but has a bit of a sidearm release and is vulnerable to getting passes tipped at the LOS. Seemed to grip the ball well in bad weather. Above average arm strength. Can zip the ball downfield and thread the needle.

Active feet and excellent pocket presence. Will step up or spin outside to avoid pressure coming off the edge. Can sidestep pressure up the middle. Keeps eyes downfield. Can pick up yards and extend drives with feet when nothing available downfield. Knee injury raises concerns here and ability to bounce back remains to be seen.

 Jacory Harris    6-3   203 (Arm: 32)  Miami  (FL)  
Combine - Forty:  4.72  |  Ten:  |  Twenty:  | VJ: 37  | BJ: 113 | Sh Sh: 4.40 |  3C:  7.10  |

BRS (Gollin) -
He'll have to pass a try-out before we actually sign him. Seems to be more a creature of the reputation of the Miami program than he is a legitimate pro talent. He'd logically throw to former 'Cane teammate and UDFA signee LaRon Byrd when he arrives in AZ.

Walter Mitchell (posting on ASFN) -
2011 stats: personal best 65% comp. 3rd best QB rating in ACC at 158.2 20 TD 9 int. He too is being brought in for a tryout. He burst on the scene three years ago when Mark Whipple became the OC---had a good sophomore year and then struggled quite a bit as a junior. Lacks the big arm you want---and doesn't scramble the way you think he could. But, he leaves Miami as 2nd All-Time in TDs (70) and yards (8,826).

NFL.Com -
Harris is a player who will be under the microscope in the postseason draft process considering his history at Miami. Although he has started three years (plus two games as a true freshman, including the opener) and has experience quarterbacking at a high level, Harris lacks many of the key inherent attributes that make NFL quarterbacks successful, as he is thin and lacks arm strength. Harris could stand to put on size before expecting to step into an NFL pocket, as well as continue to develop his arm and accuracy. While there are knocks on his skill set, Harris is considered a gamer and could expect to be taken in late rounds by teams looking for a change-of-pace quarterback.


Strengths
Harris' biggest strength is that he was able to start for so many games at Miami. He has led the Hurricanes on many late-game victory drives and had some productive outings. He is a good game manager and distributes the ball well both short and intermediate. He has shown a good throwing motion and touch on his ball.

Weaknesses

Harris is thin for the position and could have durability issues. He can be sporadic with his throws and is not accurate throwing the ball deep. For his size, he should be more of a running threat, and he is effective mostly just out of the pocket.

 
 

 

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