Gauging Brett Hundley’s Disappointing Start with the Packers

As soon as he declared for the NFL Draft out of UCLA, quarterback Brett Hundley received doses of criticism and praise. Varied opinions were aplenty for the college superstar who turned heads by his unique and strong play in the PAC-12.

Some had him listed as a sure fire first-round pick. Others believed he needed developmental time, hoping for a situation like the one he’s currently in with the Packers.

Now, slotted as the team’s third quarterback on the depth chart, Hundley has a whole lot to prove to the Green Bay fans who believe that he is the future.

What We’ve Learned Early

Like most rookies in the NFL, the former UCLA standout has turned in mixed results early in his first preseason as a pro. After a very impressive first game against the Patriots, Hundley couldn’t find a groove against the Steelers in the second half.

He looked lost at times, struggling to commit to a receiver and evade pressure. What he did very well in college hasn’t shown early on in the preseason. And while we can chalk this up to the typical NFL transition, it is notable considering it’s the only time he’ll be seeing the field in live game action for another year.

You’d like to see consistency and at-least flashing of the tools possessed in college, even in limited time and especially against third/fourth string players. With an uncomfortable presence on Saturday, he’ll need to show off in the team’s final exhibition game to gain the confidence of the fans in Wisconsin.

It’s too early to be concerned, but…

With Hundley, there are a few things you want to see before he’s done for the season (barring injury to Aaron Rodgers).

First — in what we’d expect to be a lengthy outing in the fourth preseason matchup — he needs to get a feel for escaping a collapsed pocket and relying on his natural tools. Every rep is critical at this stage of the game, so even under duress you’d like to see “the UCLA Hundley” emerge for real-game feel.

Also, simply completing routine plays and passes against another NFL defense.

Much like he showed in the first game, Hundley can benefit from getting on the field and back to what he’s been doing for years. Splash plays aren’t necessary. But making smart throws and avoiding errors he didn’t make and college is crucial as he finishes out his time for the season.

Two good games and one bad one would be much better than to see the rookie struggle in both of his final two appearances.