2016 NFL Draft Ceiling Depends On Christian Hackenberg

Dec 27, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) calls a play at the line against the Boston College Eagles during the first quarter in the 2014 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

Look back across the bulk of the drafts over the past 30 years and though many have exhibited extremely strong classes at a variety of positions, all are judged in the same fashion. How good was the quarterback crop that year? Denying it is pointless. There is a reason the 1983 and 2004 drafts stand out as two of the best ever. Both were among the strongest at quarterback in history.

That is how the 2016 NFL draft is going to determine itself as well, and the key to the entire spectacle will be Penn State junior Christian Hackenberg.

For the first time really since Andre Luck arrived in 2012, college football has a quarterback that seems to have every tool in the cupboard. Hackenberg is 6’4″, 236 lbs with a huge arm that almost makes his throws look effortless. Former player and GM Matt Millen, who is now a CFB analyst, has sky-high expectations for him in 2015.

"“This is going to be his last year, too. I don’t see him staying four years. He is really talented. … He’s a top-five pick.”"

The problem is people can’t get over how poorly he played last season for the Nittany Lions, throwing 12 touchdowns to 15 interceptions. However, being sacked 44 times certainly didn’t help matters. Most feel if he can get even adequate protection that his natural talent and development should take over.

The only thing he really lacks is true mobility, but given the ongoing success of guys like Peyton Manning and Tom Brady, that won’t be a problem. In terms of pure potential as a pocket passer in a pro-style offense, none seem better suited to it than Hackenberg. If he blossoms this year, then the 2016 draft could stand among the strongest to come around in over a decade.

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