Quarterback Class of 2015 NFL Draft Deeper Than Expected
By Erik Lambert
Oct 4, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Bo Wallace (14) runs for a short gain during the second half against Alabama Crimson Tide at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Initially the 2015 NFL draft class figured to have decent quarterback representation. Recent events show that quantity is matching the quality.
Bo Wallace and Jacoby Brissett emerging as legitimate prospects
By now fans are beginning to get acquainted with the big names expected to inhabit the early rounds of the 2015 draft next April. Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota remains in the hunt for going first overall while Jameis Winston is still a polarizing figure with top 5 talent but questionable character. There is rising Michigan State leader Connor Cook and latest Baylor product Bryce Petty as well.
However, those names have since been joined by several previously overlooked prospects itching to prove they can hack it against the big boys. North Carolina State quarterback Jacoby Brissett gave a heroic performance against #1 Florida State, throwing for 359 yards and three touchdowns. Unfortunately it wasn’t enough but it at least showed the junior has the chops for the position, especially at 6’4″, 231 lbs.
Another kid striving for attention is Bo Wallace. Through five games he has his team undefeated and is coming off his best performance of the season as he led a spirited comeback to stun #3 ranked Alabama. Wallace was the catalyst, throwing three touchdown passes including two in the 4th quarter without a single interception. Like Brissett he has the body 2015 NFL draft scouts are looking for at 6’4″, 217 lbs but it will be that poise under pressure that get them on his side more than anything.
There is also Shane Carden, who has East Carolina ranked and owns big victories over Virginia Tech and North Carolina. Then there is Connor Halliday, who already sits over 3,000 yards passing with 26 touchdowns. The list of high potential names goes on, reinforcing the probability that 2015 could have a strong group at the most important position.