Patrick Mahomes II: The Most Upside of any QB Prospect
By Josh Marion
The hottest name leading up to draft day is Texas Tech’s Patrick Mahomes… Let me tell you why it is indeed well deserved…
As many of you know by now, Patrick Mahomes has been one of the hottest names in the 2017 NFL Draft within the last month. The reason being is the “upside”, or the raw physical/natural traits that Mahomes possesses.
All of the drafts top rated quarterbacks have been labeled as “developmental” prospects who are not ready to come in and save a franchise from day one. That is probably true. That means that a majority of the differing of opinions you see on where these top quarterbacks should be ranked are based on the players upside.
Judging a player based on what you believe they will become in the National Football League is a major part of the scouting process, as well as a necessary one. However, Mahomes has more than just the physical/natural traits, and is much more of a polished signal caller than given credit for.
Throughout Mahomes’ three seasons at Texas Tech there was significant improvement to his statistics, due to his developing skill set…
Patrick Mahomes Texas Tech Key Statistics
2015 Season
63.5% Completion 2.4:1 TD to INT Ratio
2016 Season
65.7% Completion 4:1 TD to INT Ratio
The reason I have focused on just two sets of Mahomes is statistics is due to the Kliff Kingsbury ‘Air Raid’ offense at Texas Tech. While many believe the Kingsbury offense is a simple college offense, that is not exactly the case.
On tape, it is apparent Mahomes has to go through multiple reads on each play, and shows he is more than capable of doing so. While it isn’t a pro-style offense, the reads that are being made by Mahomes are a positive sign.
Mahomes not only shows the capability to make the necessary reads on the field, but he also has the strongest arm in the draft, as well as some of the best on-field instincts at his position. The only major downsides with his game that I notice are his “technique”, and footwork. Both are extremely coachable issues that will be fixed at the next level.
The arm talent (accuracy included), natural football instinct, and the ability to process in-game information are reasons why Mahomes is one of the top two quarterbacks in the draft, as well as the quarterback in this draft with the most upside.
Three Best Fits for Patrick Mahomes in the NFL
Kansas City Chiefs
Andy Reid and the weapons the Chiefs have on their offense would act as the ultimate support group for Mahomes early in his developing years in the NFL. Sitting behind a successful veteran quarterback would be very beneficial as well.
Arizona Cardinals
Doesn’t Mahomes feel like the perfect fit for Bruce Arians? Again, sitting behind Palmer while learning from one of the best QB coaches in the league will do wonders for Mahomes.
Houston Texans
This fit would be beneficial for both Mahomes and the Houston Texans. Bill O’Brien would finally get a young QB he can groom to be the future of that team. Having a top five defense wont hurt his development either.