• Google+

FanShot

🔗
Fanshot

ESPN Insider: Lack of quality quarterbacks atop the board

40

"The debut installment of the 2013 buzz looks at a once-promising quarterback class that is quickly becoming a dissatisfying group. That's bad news for teams in need of an upgrade at the position, beginning with the Kansas City Chiefs." There's no question he has the size (6-foot-3, 208 pounds), accuracy, arm strength, pocket mobility and drive to succeed as an NFL starter. However, as West Virginia has struggled in recent weeks, some red flags have been raised about his game. Geno Smith (Grade: 94) A bad habit of locking on to his primary receiver has resurfaced, and when defenses take away his first and second reads, Smith isn't processing the information quickly enough and is becoming noticeably anxious in the pocket. Matt Barkley (90) Barkley has the tools to be a solid starter in a West Coast system that emphasizes tempo, quick decisions, throwing in rhythm and short accuracy. However, he simply lacks the elite qualities -- mobility, arm strength, deep accuracy -- to be considered an elite prospect for schemes that require the quarterback to consistently drive the ball downfield with precision. While Barkley has good pocket awareness, gets the ball out quickly and is good handling the blitz, he is just a decent athlete and will not extend many plays with his feet.He has struggled under duress this season. Mike Glennon (86) Glennon has great size (6-7¼, 225), a strong arm, good mechanics and exceptional intangibles. He shows the same work ethic, football character, mental toughness and overall makeup that good NFL quarterbacks have. His lack of mobility is a concern, something that often plagues quarterbacks with such tall frames. I spoke to one scout who doesn't think he could stomach spending a first-round pick in today's lightning-fast NFL on a quarterback who can't buy time with his feet. Despite his solid intangibles, I've spoken to two scouts who shared concerns about Glennon having "too much nice guy" in him. He is not a fiery, in-your-face leader, which is bothersome to some.

Stay connected for news and updates

There are 40 Comments. Load Now. Loading

Shortcuts to mastering the comment thread. Use wisely.

C - Next Comment
X - Mark as Read

R - Reply
Z - Mark Read & Next

Shift + C - Previous
Shift + A - Mark All Read

Comment Settings

Live comment alert: Hide it!

Comments for this post are closed.