2015 NFL Draft: What It Will Take To Get Marcus Mariota
By Erik Lambert
Sep 20, 2014; Pullman, WA, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) drops back for a pass against the Washington State Cougars during the first half at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Jameis Winston is pretty much a done deal at the #1 pick to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Now, as the 2015 NFL draft draws closer, it’s becoming more and more clear that Marcus Mariota likely won’t get beyond the #2 pick based on the weakness of the quarterback class and so many teams needing one.
Closer we get to draft more I see Mariota going 2nd overall, whether by pick or by trade. And a trade is possible: http://t.co/sSNL3cMPnm
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 19, 2015
The Tennessee Titans could still put an end to all the talk by simply taking Mariota themselves, but doubts continue to linger given how unprepared he is for the pro game and how poorly he fits with head coach Ken Whisenhunt. So if Tennessee decides to put #2 up for sale, here is how the primary contenders go up and get it.
New York Jets
As it stands Geno Smith and Ryan Fitzpatrick are the two guys expected to compete for the starting job. In their warped sense of optimism that may be okay for New York Jets fans but in reality neither of those players are prepared to take this team to the next level. Mariota is more talented than both of them and offensive coordinator Chan Gailey has experience with quarterbacks of his skill type.
Price Tag: #6 pick, 1st in 2016 and a 2nd