2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Andrew Luck, Stanford
By Editorial Staff
6-4 235lbs Sophomore
Stats:
2009- 2575 yards, 56.3% completion rate, 13 touchdowns, 4 interceptions, 354 rushing yards, 2 touchdowns
Pros:
I am not sure if I can remember a redshirt Sophomore getting so much NFL Draft attention but Andrew Luck is gliding along on the hype train. Some draft experts are proclaiming Luck the next Peyton Manning and have settled with Luck being their top prospect. When you watch Luck there is a lot to like about the 6-4 quarterback prospect. The thing that impressed me the most was his poise and pocket awareness. Luck seemed unflappable in what was a pressure situation during this first season as a full time starter. Luck makes quick and smart decisions which is an obvious result of the tutelage from Coach Jim Harbaugh. Luck’s technique is exceptional with great footwork and no wasted motion in his throwing delivery. He gets the ball out quickly which is a very important skill to have in the NFL. Luck combines his technical skills with a strong arm and good accuracy. While watching some film I noticed that Luck is very accurate while on the run and rolling out of the pocket, which are two things he will be expected to do in the NFL.
Cons:
It is really hard to find many flaws in Luck’s game. He has all the physical tools coupled with the proper techniques. However, there is such a small sampling and he needs to prove he can maintain his high level of play over a longer stretch. It’s a known fact that quarterbacks need game experience to develop properly. They need to be able to encounter different defensive packages and schemes, so this will be something weighing on the minds of NFL scouts and GMs. Something else that is going to be closely watched this season is the way Luck responds after losing Heisman candidate Toby Gerhart. There is going to be a lot more pressure placed on the shoulders of Luck.
Thoughts:
This is going to be a big season for Luck. He needs to stay healthy and gain the game experience but there is no questioning his talent and ability. He is going to have a tough decision to make at the end of the season. Right now he sits at #9 on our 2011 NFL Draft Prospect Big Board and #3 on our top 5 quarterback ranking.
Projected Round:
If Luck comes out he will be competing with Locker and Mallett for the #1 spot. But with such a strong quarterback draft he could fall a little come draft time.