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Jake Coker, QB, Alabama: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report

By Jonathan Gross

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker (14) throws in the pocket against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker (14) throws in the pocket against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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It is no secret that Alabama’s offense was predicated around Heisman winner Derrick Henry. As dominant as he was, the Crimson Tide likely would not have hoisted the National Championship trophy if it wasn’t for Jake Coker.

Coming into the 2015 campaign, the biggest question mark surrounding the program was its quarterback play. Many doubted Coker’s abilities, but he proved them wrong. The Florida State transfer had a 21:8 touchdown to interception ratio and completed 67 percent of his passes for 3,110 yards in his lone season as a starter.

Measurables

Height: 6-6

Weight: 236 lbs.

Average 40-time: 5.12 seconds

(Pro Day is March 9)

Strengths

Coker’s biggest strength is an intangible one: performing on big stages. His three best games were the SEC Championship against Florida, Cotton Bowl versus Michigan State, and the National Championship against Clemson.

In those three games, he tossed six touchdowns and no interceptions while averaged 275 yards per game and completing 72 percent of his passes. Keep in mind that Coker put up those numbers against three of the best defenses in the country.

via GIPHY

The above clip is from the Cotton Bowl against Michigan State. Despite his target, Calvin Ridley, being in double-coverage, Coker is able to float the ball above the defense and find Ridley. This play illustrates Coker’s ability to throw the deep ball. He has great touch and precise accuracy.

He also has ideal size for an NFL quarterback and solid arm strength.

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Weaknesses

Does Jake Coker have enough experience to be a professional quarterback? Front offices will be asking themselves that question until draft day. With only one season under his belt, it is uncertain if Coker is ready to play at the next level. His lack of in-game reps is something that scouts will take into consideration.

Coker also struggles on short to intermediate throws. His receivers bailed him out on some poor 5-10 yard throws, but that will not happen against NFL defensive backs.

Outlook

A surprising Senior Bowl invite gave scouts the chance to look at Coker up close. While he wasn’t invited to the combine, the Bowl gave him great exposure. In the NFL, Jake will be a project. If he sits behind a good quarterback for a few seasons, Coker could develop into a starter.

Coker will most likely get drafted in the fifth or sixth round to a team with stability at quarterback but is looking for a future replacement.

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