The 2014 NFL Draft Quarterback Power Rankings – Aaron Murray Booming

Sep 28, 2013; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Aaron Murray (11) throws under pressure from LSU Tigers defensive end Danielle Hunter (94) in the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia won 44-41. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Before diving into the waters of ranking the top quarterbacks in college through four weeks, it’s important to note that freshmen and sophomores are being left off the list because of the limited possibility they enter the 2014 NFL draft.  So let it be known names like Johnny Manziel, Marcus Mariota and Brett Hundley are not ignored but merely shelved until they’ve matured a little more.

#1 – Teddy Bridgewater

He’s looked about as close to flawless as a quarterback can.  Teddy Bridgewater has continued his hot streak that started in the Sugar Bowl, tearing defenses apart while putting his team in comfortable leads early.  The competition should get tougher as the weather turns but there is no reason to think Bridgewater is due for a letdown.

#2 – Tajh Boyd

He throws for touchdowns.  He runs for touchdowns.  Tajh Boyd can pretty much do everything a coach asks of a quarterback save for growing an inch or two.  That is really the only thing holding the Clemson star back from getting consideration as the top pick in the 2014 NFL draft.  It is something he must battle all season and likely into his pro career too.

#3 – Aaron Murray

If anybody can relate to that it’s Aaron Murray.  Despite continuing to dominate defenses every week with a flurry of passing yards and touchdowns, he still isn’t getting proper respect from the pundits.  He’s already won some big games against SEC foes.  How much more can he do before scouts start to look past his height?

#4 – Zach Mettenberger

On the other hand, height isn’t a problem for Zach Mettenberger at 6’5″.  He has the size and arm of a pro quarterback.  Some wish he was a little more mobile but playing in a pro-style offense at LSU has put him ahead of the curve on understanding how to succeed at the top level.  His terrific game against Georgia was certainly a sign of his progress.

#5 – Stephen Morris

Injuries have hampered the Miami signal caller but his maturation as more of a traditional drop back passer is still on track.  He hasn’t reached the prolific level yet but his obvious physical talent and ability to managed a game well are something scouts will like.  It’s just a matter of time before the game slows down for him.

#6 – Derek Carr

It really is amazing the right arm of Derek Carr hasn’t fallen off.  Through four games he has already attempted 211 passes.  FresnoState has won each of those games in a shootout, meaning their quarterback was the big reason why.  Carr has piled up stats due to the offense he plays but is less versed in a pro attack.  Still his physical ability is there as is a quality in the clutch.

#7 – David Fales

Things have not lined up for David Fales so far in 2013.  After an outstanding 2012 season, the San JoseState star has struggled early one with six touchdowns and five interceptions.  His team has won just one game and lost their last in blowout fashion to UtahState.  Hopes were high that Fales was more than a system quarterback.  It’s too early to be sure, but it’s starting to look that way.

#8 – A.J. McCarron

No matter how much his teammates assure people, A.J. McCarron can’t escape the “game manager” tag with Alabama.  His latest outing against Ole Miss further proved that as he once again failed to top 200 yards passing or throw a touchdown.  Despite some solid attributes, his 2014 NFL draft stock isn’t likely to go much higher regardless of what Alabama does.