NFL Scouting Combine Quarterback Observations

The annual NFL scouting combine is a smorgasbord of the league power brokers coming together to pick, prod, fall into and out of love with…

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NFL Scouting Combine Quarterback Observations

Carson Wentz of North Dakota State maybe highest drafted non FBS QB in NFL history

The annual NFL scouting combine is a smorgasbord of the league power brokers coming together to pick, prod, fall into and out of love with a whole new class of prospective job seekers. This installment covers the quarterbacks who participated in the combine, highlighting those that surprised and/or disappointed from my perspective.

I’m publishing these notes right after the combine, so analysis is subject to change based on draft selection, performance in mini-camps and pre-season games. In short, the combine is one small but important step in the evaluation process.

The quarterback position has evolved as a result of the open offensive approach sweeping the league, resulting in production spikes in the passing game. For fantasy that means more overall numbers as well as greater quantity of high performers. A more subtle but no less important component though is that quarterbacks now score a higher percentage of points, while running backs, the former fantasy hero position, are scoring less. Majority of leagues only start 1 so there’s always going to be a supply & demand issue (most leagues are between 8 & 12 teams) but the fantasy trend is QB’s are slowly becoming more valuable, they just have a long way to go before they match the real NFL value.

Quarterback is also subject to a win now mentality, so even above average production can result in loss of job if it doesn’t translate into wins on the field. Versus a RB or WR who produces above average will be rewarded with a long term contract and job security (at least up and until they aren’t productive anymore).

Surprises & Studs

Carson Wentz — NFL fans will get to know him in short order as he’s a lock for a top 15 selection and will be the face of the future for some NFL franchise. The measurables and talent are there, and the scouts/coaches rave about the intangibles. If this guy was graduating from a top school with his college production and measurables, he’d be the top overall selection. My eyes see an under rated athlete with Joe Flacco like stature and arm strength. If he lands in a strong developmental situation (strong coaching staff with above average talent around him), he can develop into a top 15 starting NFL QB for the next decade.

The rest of this article can be read FFCollective.