Carson Wentz shocked the NFL world when he went from FCS standout to being the 2nd overall pick of the Philadelphia Eagles. Could another just like him be right around the corner?
It’s nothing new. Everybody is always looking for that next diamond in the rough that few ever saw coming. With Wentz doing what he did, it has inevitably caused a massive scouring of the FCS and Division II circuits to see if another QB is ready to make that leap.
One name that is already garnering attention is Brady Gustafson of Montana. Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report believes his physical skill set, while different is on the same level as far as potential of Wentz.
"“Gustafson is a physically talented prospect with traits NFL scouts look for at every level. He’s 6’7″ and 230-plus pounds with an effortless throwing motion. He’s a pocket passer by trade, but he’s also athletic enough to maneuver around the pocket. These types of tools automatically get quarterbacks noticed. “He’s a very smart guy,” Montana head coach and offensive play-caller Bob Stitt said in a phone interview with Bleacher Report. “He’s got the physical tools, and he’s quicker and faster than people realize. He can also run a little bit and cover some ground. He puts his foot in the ground and moves around the pocket well. He can make all of the throws, too.”"
It’s hard to make this justification yet. Gustafson has yet to play more than seven games in a season. In 2015 he threw for 1,984 yards and 12 touchdowns with nine interception. So if he is the next Carson Wentz, he has a lot of work to do going into this season. The flash plays are there, and so is the skill. What he needs to show is an ability to not only beat FCS competition but dominate it. That is the only way NFL teams will even remotely consider going down the same road with him.
Otherwise expect him to go the same route as most players coming from such humble beginning: Day 3 of the draft or onto the undrafted circuit.