2015 NFL Draft: Who Will Trade Up For Marcus Mariota?

Nov 1, 2014; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) throws the ball before the game against the Stanford Cardinal at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

The picture for the 2015 NFL draft is beginning to solidify, and it starts with Marcus Mariota being a huge trade target.  Here’s why.

He Is The Best Quarterback In the Class

Last year, remember, Mariota was considered one of the best in the 2014 class.  Now that he’s had a chance to mature with another year in school, he’s showing that hands down he is the best of this latest crop.  Unlike last season, there has been no letdown in his play.  He has amassed 2,541 yards passing, 410 rushing and collected 33 touchdowns with just two interceptions.  All the physical tools are there and he’s starting to grasp the concept of protecting the football despite frequent pressure.

Jameis Winston Keeps Killing His Own Stock

What is making him even more valued among the pro football community is the fact that his only real challenger in the top 10, Florida State star Jameis Winston keeps seeing fit to wreck his own draft stock.  First it was rape allegations, then theft and now a points-shaving scandal.  The kid is just a sophomore and so talented but he can’t stay out of trouble.  Even if he declares early as many expect, the array of blunders he’s made could push him down and perhaps out of the first round, making Mariota the only true quarterback worthy of a top selection.

Top Two Teams Picking Don’t Need QBs

Then there is the matter of pick order.  If the team holding the #1 overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft needed a quarterback, then the ideas of a trade would be moot.  However, based on recent projections that won’t be the case.  The Oakland Raiders, who remain winless, currently hold the rights to the #1 overall pick.  Given the positive feedback on rookie Derek Carr, it’s unlikely they’ll take a quarterback.  The same goes for the Jacksonville Jaguars who would be drafting #2 since they committed to Blake Bortles.  Both teams have a history of trading back in drafts to collect more picks, so it’s not a stretch at all to think they’ll declare open season for the right to get Marcus Mariota.

Wheelers and Dealers

So with that in mind, which teams could be the ones to make that aggressive move?  Here is the current draft order of the top 10 teams based on the latest NFL standings.

• #1 – Oakland
• #2 – Jacksonville
• #3 – New York (Jets)
• #4 – Tampa Bay
• #5 – Tennessee
• #6 – Atlanta
• #7 – Washington
• #8 – St. Louis
• #9 – Chicago
• #10 – New York (Giants)

The teams that jump out the most are the Jets at #3, the Titans at #4 and St. Louis at #7.  All three appear to have a need at quarterback.  How much of one is still up for debate.  One would wager the Jets have the greatest given the failures of Geno Smith while the Rams are anxious to move one from Sam Bradford.  It’s clear any team that wants to move up will have to get above the Jets and don’t discount Washington or the Giants in the equation.

Based on an educated guess, if any two teams will make a move for Marcus Mariota next April, look out for the Rams or the Titans.