2015 NFL Draft Matchmaker: Marcus Mariota
By Erik Lambert
Nov 8, 2014; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) passes the ball during the second half Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Oregon won 51-27. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Figuring out where players will go in the 2015 NFL draft will be talked about for months to come. So what about where they should go? Part of the draw of drafts is pinpointing where the top prospects would fit best. Here is a look at the first prospect on the board in Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota.
It’s hard to argue against the junior being top dog in 2015. He has every tool a franchise could ask for at the most important position. On the physical end he boasts a 6’4″ frame with scrambling speed but also the arm to make throws at every level with accuracy. His mental state is that of a humble young man who prefers letting his actions speak louder than his words. He’s much calmer under pressure than a year ago and elevates his game as the competition grows tougher.
It’s become where scouts are having to nitpick in order to find flaws in his game. That is why he’s on top. So it will come down to one of the teams picking in the top 5, but where would Mariota fit best?
Philadelphia Eagles
It’s really not that big of a surprise. Chip Kelly, head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles was the man who recruited Mariota back when he ran the program at Oregon. He knows exactly what the young man can do. On the flip side, Mariota would have an immediate understanding of the fast-paced attack Kelly loves to run.
Also keep in mind the current state of affairs with the Eagles quarterbacks. Nick Foles is out with a broken collarbone and apparently was beginning to sour in the eyes of team management. His backup, Mark Sanchez had a solid first start but reverted to his old habits with an ugly showing in Green Bay. It’s not crazy to think the Eagles may go looking for a quarterback of Kelly’s choosing.
How perfect it would be if they could somehow find a way to grab Marcus Mariota in the 2015 NFL draft.