Everett Golson, QB, Florida St: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Everett Golson enters the 2016 NFL Draft as a bit of a mystery. He started 2013 at Notre Dame under a suspension due to an academic violation, forcing him to miss every game for that season. He followed that up with a nice performance as the starting quarterback, compiling 3,445 yards, 29 TD’s, and 14 INT’s while completing 60% of his passes. Despite his performance, he wound up transferring to Florida St, claiming he was only looking for the best position his career. Believing he could take over for the post-Winston Seminoles, Golson reported to Florida St. Ready to play. He quickly realized this would be a tougher task than he first thought as he had a tough time grasping the offense and eventually found his way to the bench.

Often thought of as a dual-threat quarterback (although, he was recently listed as #16 by the college football staff at Bleacher Report), Golson possesses some of the traits for a quarterback to succeed in the NFL. He will have to prove his focus and determination via the off-season activities like the Combine, Senior Bowl, etc. If Golson can make an impression on scouts, he’ll find his way on a team.

Measurables

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 200 lbs

Year: Senior

Strengths
Golson displays a quick, tight release, getting the ball out fast. Demonstrates good arm strength, allowing him to make throws from anywhere on the field. While not overly athletic, has the ability to escape pressure and run if needed. Shows good timing and will be patient enough to allow the play to develop. At Notre Dame, he showed good poise in the pocket, going through his progressions and making smart decisions. This illustrates a foundation to build on as a pocket-passer. Displays sound fundamentals and a good throwing motion. 

Highlight video from his 2014 match-up against the Stanford Cardinals

Weaknesses

One of the biggest knacks on Golson is his size. Standing between 6’0”-6’1” and weighing in at 200 lbs, he is considered a small quarterback and will be compared with the likes of Russell Wilson and Drew Brees.  While those may be unfair comparisons, they are quarterbacks who have found a way to succeed despite their stature.

Golson has been prone to erratic play when he gets hit a few times. He will have to prove to scouts that he can play with more confidence when pressure starts to get to him. With the 2013 suspension etched in his past, he will have to prove to scouts that he can also maintain his focus and dedicate himself to do whatever he needs to do to be successful. He just needs to own up to it and then get it behind him. If he can do this, it will go a long way in his evaluation.

Final Thoughts

While his suspension in 2013 and benching in 2015 still linger in his past, Golson had a successful 2014 campaign that will likely help him during the pre-draft process. Golson has demonstrated enough arm strength, experience, and poise to warrant a spot on a roster. While he’ll most likely be a bit of a project coming into the league, he has the foundation and fundamentals needed to build on. He’ll most likely have to taper his expectations when it comes to his draft spot. It’s more than likely he’ll slip to the 7th or sign with a team after the draft concludes.
Projection: 7th Round – Undrafted Free Agent