Gunner Kiel, QB, Cincinnati: 2017 NFL Draft Scouting Report

You’ve heard the saying over and over and over again and you will hear it at least one more time: The NFL is a quarterback league. Having “game managers” under center is pretty much phased out at this point. In order to separate from other teams, it’s imperative to have a QB that is more than a game manager.

The 2017 NFL Draft class has a solid helping of quality quarterbacks. From Miami’s Brad Kaaya to Clemson’s Deshaun Watson to Oklahoma’s Baker Mayfield.

There is one signal caller to monitor closely. One that has the potential to join the names listed above as well as one who can be a winner in the NFL. His name is Kiel. Gunner Kiel. The University of Cincinnati is his stomping ground. The 2017 NFL Draft will be hear before you know it, so let’s breakdown this talented quarterback.

Measurables

Height: 6’4

Weight: 208 lbs

Strengths: The tools are clearly there for Kiel to be more than a “project”……Patient in the pocket to let the plays evolve…..Five games of at least 300+ yards in 2015 including 523 yards, four TDs against Houston and 427 yards against Temple……Active feet when waiting in the pocket for the play to develop…..Displays ability to look off safeties/linebackers in coverage to make throws…..Overall mental aspect of the game is very dependable……Very accurate passer…..Able to apply velocity to necessary throws as well as complete touch passes…..Made the most out of the average talent surrounding him at Cincinnati…..A very savvy passer.

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Weaknesses: Mechanics needs polish…..Not consistent on his follow through on throws…..Tossed 24 INTs in his two seasons of college football…..Performed in shotgun during his tenure as a Bearcat, will need to display ability under center…..Inconsistent footwork….Doesn’t have a strong arm that many offensive coordinators covet.

Bottom line: As of now, Gunner Kiel has the look of a mid-round selection in next year’s draft, but a stellar 2016 can catapult him into a second day guy in the draft. In today’s league, Kiel can prosper based on the ability he has developed to be a gunslinger. T

he game will adjust for him very quickly at the next level and his weaknesses are significant enough to keep him as a backup. There is importance on the 2016 season for Kiel. The tools that he also has gives him enough intrigue to be coveted by teams. Kiel has what it takes to be successful in the NFL.

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