2017 Reese’s Senior Bowl Breakdown: The Quarterbacks
By Erik Lambert
The 2017 Reese’s Senior Bowl figures to be an interesting event at the end of January for the 30 fan bases that won’t watch their team in the Super Bowl.
Many view this event as one of the most important of the pre-NFL draft process. It’s a chance to see several of the top prospects in the class work under professional coaching staffs and play a full-contact game in professional schemes. Several times over the years this game has helped unearth more than a few future stars. It’s all about finding the right talent and the right fit.
No position will be watched more carefully than the quarterbacks. It’s no surprise give their importance, but this years’ crop is especially difficult to read. There is plenty of talent but few “sure things.” Here is an overview of those who have received an invitation the past couple weeks and what they bring to the table if and when they accept.
The Big Names
Deshaun Watson (Clemson)
One of the winningest QBs in the 2017 class. A supreme athlete with a solid arm and speed. Has led Clemson to two-straight national championship games. Biggest concerns center around his size (6’2″) and his somewhat inconsistent ball placement and accuracy. Still, those come across as minor problems given some of the excellent games he’s had against top competition.
Davis Webb (Cal)
Another product of that pass-happy California offense that can put up big numbers. Webb at least looks like a pro QB with his considerable size at 6’4″ to go along with a pretty strong arm. He doesn’t turn the ball over much but lack of competition and the spread scheme make him iffy. There’s talent worth exploring.
Chad Kelly (Ole Miss)
Arguably the strongest arm in the class. Devastating deep thrower who can slice defenses to pieces when he’s in a rhythm. The problem is he’s dealing with a significant injury and is also a major question mark off-the-field. His maturity level is significantly below where teams would often prefer, making him a boom-or-bust.