2016 NFL Draft Player Comparisons: The Quarterbacks
By Erik Lambert
Oct 24, 2015; Piscataway, NJ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Cardale Jones (12) prior to the game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at High Points Solutions Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim O
Cardale Jones (Ohio State)
Geoff: Logan Thomas – Like Thomas, Jones has had his ups and downs and will need to sit on the bench for a year or two and really develop his game and improve his consistency. Jones has all to the physical tools NFL Scout desire, plus a National Championship ring, but with his recent benchings and sloppy play, he wont go as high as people once thought. However, I’d be surprised to see him fall outside the first four rounds.
Me: E.J. Manuel – For a time the comparison was Cam Newton, but since watching him more there is no question Manuel makes more sense. He, like Jones, has a ton of physical ability, great size and plenty of arm. The problem is he has shown little to no affinity for the mental side of the game, which is what separates great throwers from great quarterbacks.
Carson Wentz (North Dakota State)
Joe: Joe Flacco – Carson Wentz gets a Joe Flacco comparison for me. Does a lot of things right — and while given a limited amount of attention, might just become one of the best to come out of this class if given the chance to start.
Me: Phil Simms – Yes, this is going back a little bit but it makes sense. A talented kid from a smaller school, wears the #11 and shows himself to be a winner. Sound familiar? Okay, that might be oversimplifying but Carson Wentz, like Simms, is a quarterback with a good arm, accurate passes and operates with urgency. Numbers aren’t eye-popping, but can turn in a huge game without warning.
Next: Boykin and Kiel