11 quarterbacks have been selected in the first round of the past four NFL drafts. That's an average of almost three QBs in each draft. Every year, a handful of teams are on the search for a franchise signal-caller. This year, as many as seven teams could be looking for their quarterback of the future. But as of right now, there aren't enough golden arms to go around.
ESPN's draft expert Todd McShay has just two quarterbacks listed among his top 32 NFL prospects for 2015. They are Oregon's Marcus Mariota and Florida State's Jameis Winston.
McShay lists Mariota at No. 1 and Winston at No. 7, noting that both quarterbacks have the physical tools to be high-upside prospects.
"Mariota is a dynamic athlete who puts stress on a defense with his mobility both as a runner and a thrower," McShay wrote. "He has above-average elusiveness and a rare straight-line speed, reminiscent of Colin Kaepernick with his long stride. Mariota has a quick, compact, over-the-shoulder release with well-above-average arm strength, so he can make all the NFL throws...He has outstanding intangibles and a very good mental makeup."
It's no surprise that both the New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles have been linked to Mariota with a glowing scouting report such as that. The Jets are in desperate need of a quarterback with the Geno Smith era likely done in New York and are in line for a top-five pick. While the Eagles (6-2) are almost a lock to finish above .500, coach Chip Kelly previously coached Mariota at Oregon and would love the dual-threat QB in a Philly uniform.
Winston, meanwhile, has a lot more questions to answer. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner is undeniably one of the most talented players in all of college football. But his off-field decision making is highly questionable and could force teams to think twice before handing him the keys to the franchise.
ESPN's other draft expert, Mel Kiper, lists Winston at No. 13 on the top 25 NFL prospects board.
"He still needs time to prove doubters wrong," Kiper wrote. "That said, he has an extraordinary mind for football. He has special instincts, with ideal natural gifts for the position - vision, size, arm strength, athleticism. He also has the ability to manipulate the pocket, see pressure early and deliver the ball to the right target. Consistency with ball placement and timing will need to improve. And again, the off-field stuff matters."
