Mark Schofield is already looking at the 2016 NFL Draft QB prospects, making a list of those players who can, with a strong season, rise to become the #1 overall pick. Looking at their footwork, ability to climb the pocket, and make the right decisions is only part of the scouting process.
The Ohio State Buckeyes Three-Headed Monster: Braxton Miller, J.T. Barrett & Cardale Jones
The competition for the reigning National Champions figures to be fierce. Miller missed all of last season, while Barrett was a Heisman candidate before his injury, and Jones won the Bowl games and title. Urban Meyer has his hands full with 2016 NFL Draft QB prospects.
Jared Goff, Cal Bears
Goff has many of the physical tools sought after by NFL teams, including a cannon for a right arm. He will need to show improved poise this season to convince NFL scouts he can transition to the pro game.
Carson Wentz, North Dakota State Bison
In his first year as a starter Wentz led the Bison to another FCS title, and manufactured two game-winning drives during the playoffs. Checks a number of the physical traits, including arm strength and athleticism, but needs to cut down on fumbles and sacks.
Matt Pawlowski, Guilford Quakers
While a dark horse draft candidate to be sure, Pawlowski has been impressive since coming to campus from a Wing-T offense in high school. Despite learning a new spread offense he won the starting job as a freshman in camp and has been entrenched as the starter throughout his career, continuing to produce impressive passing numbers. Athletic and with a strong arm, he looks to lead the Quakers to their first ODAC championship since 1997.
Brandon Doughty, Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
Doughty returns to the Hilltoppers for his sixth-collegiate season after being granted a medical hardship waiver by the NCAA. While his durability is a concern given a number of knee injuries, he has flourished in Jeff Brohm’s offense and is the current active FBS leader in touchdown throws. His arm strength and vision from the pocket are impressive, and another huge season will have him moving up draft boards in the spring.
Jacoby Brissett, North Carolina State Wolfpack
Brissett burst onto the scene during a nationally-televised game against Florida State, showing off incredible athleticism as the Wolfpack raced out to an early lead. His athletic prowess and ability to win in and out of the pocket makes him an intriguing prospect to watch in 2016.
Dak Prescott, Mississippi State Bulldogs
Prescott is an impressive athlete who often makes plays with his feet. He has the arm strength to win in the passing game but left a number of plays on the field during the 2014 season. Improved vision and decision-making would greatly enhance his draft stock.
Christian Hackenberg, Penn State Nittany Lions
The junior signal-caller showed signs of greatness under Bill O’Brien as a freshman, but seemed to regress as a sophomore in James Franklin’s offense. A return to his 2013 form would improve his draft stock.
Connor Cook, Michigan State Spartans
The veteran does many things well as a quarterback, including winning from the pocket and making anticipation throws into tight windows. But questions linger about his decision-making and ability to extend plays and win from outside the pocket.
Gunner Kiel, Cincinnati Bearcats
Kiel thrived in Cincinnati’s scheme this season, and put up very prodigious numbers. But improved accuracy and decision-making are needed before the bandwagon truly fires up.
John Robertson, Villanova Wildcats
Robertson was the Walter Payton Award winner in 2014, given to the top player in the FCS. A true dual threat, he threw for over 2,800 yards while rushing for over 1,000. His performance in a near-upset of Syracuse was stunning, which included 115 yards rushing on 34 carries. He remains an under-the-radar draft prospect – for now.
Mark will continue to update this page as more prospects are reviewed, and look for his preseason QB rankings later this summer!
Follow Mark on Twitter @MarkSchofield.
Mark Schofield has always loved football. He breaks down film, scouts prospects, and explains the passing game for Inside the Pylon.
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