2016 NFL Draft Sleeper Profile: Carson Wentz

Jan 10, 2015; Frisco, TX, USA; North Dakota State Bison quarterback Carson Wentz (11) throws a pass during pre game warmups against the Illinois State Redbirds at Pizza Hut Park. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Finding sleepers is arguably the second-most important job of a general manager outside of hitting on the 1st round pick.  No gem is more precious or sought after than an unknown quarterback who comes from nowhere to take the league by storm.  Will the 2016 NFL draft feature any such players?

It’s possible, and if there is one name worth watching leading up to the festivities next April it will be a young man by the name of Carson Wentz.

Position:  QB

School:  North Dakota State

Year:  Senior

Height:  6’5″

Weight:  231 lbs

History:

Served as a backup his first three years in college before taking over the starting job in 2014.  Went on to complete 228 of 358 passes for 3,111 yards and 25 touchdowns with just 10 interceptions.  He also rushed for 642 yards and six more touchdowns.  Led North Dakota State to its fourth-straight FCS national championship.

Strengths

• Size is obviously a plus as he can see the entire field.
• Short, compact delivery and can unload the ball quickly.
• Has the arm strength to throw to all levels and those tough out passes to the sideline.
• When mechanics are sound his accuracy is good from slants to posts to verticals down the field.
• Shows poise under pressure, sidestepping in the pocket to avoid rushers and keeping his eyes downfield.
• Sneaky athlete with shake and bake moves to make defenders miss and get big gains as a runner.

Weaknesses

• Still in a state of run-first thinking, which subjects him to unnecessary hits.  Part of that is the offense he plays in but something that needs correcting.
• Doesn’t really look to his second or third reads much.  Allows defenders to follow his eyes to where the pass is going.
• Mechanics and accuracy can get erratic when under pressure frequently.
• Works a lot out of shotgun.  Has experience under center but could use more.

Pro Comparison:  Mike Glennon

Wentz is more mobile than the former N.C. standout-turned-Tampa Bay Buccaneers backup but their dimensions are largely the same otherwise.  Both are very tall, use their good vision to their advantage, sell play fakes well and have the arm to deliver the ball on time and on target.  Each can be very dangerous when in rhythm but also reluctant to give up on plays, leading to sacks or throws into thick coverage.  Wentz has little experience against top competition, which will certainly be a drawback but his winning pedigree, performance in big games and natural talent make him the ideal project for a good offensive coach.

Probable Draft Range:  Early 3rd to Late 4th Rounds