what will they do about qb this off-season?

Are the Rams a Quarterback Away From Being a Quality Team?

http://mmqb.si.com/2014/11/13/nfl-week-11-settle-this-greg-bedard-st-louis-rams-quarterback/

By Greg A. Bedard

SettleThis: Are Rams really a quarterback away from being a quality team? Heard it several times, but what does the film say? — Lucas Bruton, ‏@LukeBrute

We first need to define “quality team.” I’ll say that means a winning team, which they haven’t been since 2003, although they’ve been close several times. The short answer, Lucas, is yes, because I like their defense and some of their offensive pieces. But I don’t think getting consistent quarterback play means they’ll suddenly rise to the top of the NFC West.

Consistent quality play from the quarterback position is the Rams’ biggest missing puzzle piece. How do they get that? They can’t just keep the status quo. Like I said in March about the Bengals, “If the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results, then the Bengals are certifiable when it comes to quarterback Andy Dalton.” If the Rams put all their eggs in the Sam Bradford basket again, then they’re crazy and everyone should be fired. I still think Bradford can be a good pro, but the Rams have to throw multiple options at the quarterback position and sort it out later. The new rookie contracts mandate that, and it’s borderline criminal that the Rams haven’t invested in a quarterback—at least someone to develop—since taking Bradford in 2010 (2014 sixth-rounder Garrett Gilbert was cut from the practice squad a few weeks ago). The starter since Bradford went on IR, Austin Davis has certainly made some plays, but he is not an NFL starting quarterback unless he develops significantly; he does not see the field well enough. Shaun Hill is a solid backup.

After two ACL surgeries, Bradford can be brought back but not at his $16.6 million salary cap number. He should return under a reduced, incentive-laden deal. If he balks at that, the Rams should just move on. Even if Bradford returns the team still needs a franchise quarterback for the future, and they need to draft one high. If both Bradford and the draft prospect develop, one can be traded down the line. That’s a problem the Rams need to get themselves into.

But there’s still other work to be done. The interior of the offensive line needs to be revamped, specifically left guard Davin Joseph and center Scott Wells. The Rams will have to make a decision on tackle Jake Long; moving on from him would save $8 million against the cap. The Rams also need to find a legit No. 1 receiver and a consistent weapon at tight end (Jared Cook has played better this year but hasn’t maximized his physical talent). I like Tre Mason at running back; Tavon Austin has been used better this season, and the Rams have solid receivers.

Defensively, coordinator Gregg Williams could really use a more dynamic middle linebacker than James Laurinaitis. I don’t care about tackle numbers; he’s average against the run and poor against the pass. I’m sure Laurinaitis will stick around since his cap number drops from $9.65 million to $4.275 million and you can certainly win with him, but the Rams can do better. Linedbacker Jo-Lonn Dunbar needs to be replaced. Other than that, I like the pieces the Rams have on defense and Williams knows how to make them work.

So, Lucas, I believe the Rams have most of the important pieces needed and are just lacking a competent quarterback who can make them a quality, winning team. But taking that next step is easier said than done. They just can’t wait for Bradford to get healthy again.

TackleDummy wrote:

So maybe, keep Bradford, keep Davis, and draft a quarterback high. And see what happens. That puts the Rams quarterback eggs in three baskets.

I am pretty sure that’s what they will do.

.

sdram wrote:

Would Snisher draft Winston if available either by trade or with their pick outright?

I have a feeling that Winston is the second coming of Jamarcus Russell.Besides Winston is toxic.

jameis scares me. i see a supremely talented qb who could easily implode once he’s given a big contract. seen it happen too many times.

i’m keen on hundley. my friend watches a lot of ucla football and while he doesn’t think he’ll be a superstar, he thinks he’s quite capable of being at least a very solid starting nfl qb.

I’m not sure that Vince Young lacked talent. What he lacked was maturity and dedication to his craft. I do not believe that Winston is in any way comparable to JeMarcus Russell. Winston is exponentially more talented and polished than Russell would ever likely have become under the best of circumstances. Winston is immature and entitled. So the question is, will he grow out of it? Will he take his position seriously, or will he continue to believe that the world revolves around him? Take away the mounting number of bonehead decisions that Winston has made, and he is hands down the best and most NFL ready quarterback in the draft. Assuming that he’s in the draft. But his character and his dedication to greatness could easily be called into question. I like Mariota, but I don’t believe that he’s ready to go as a rookie. He’s in a gimmicky system, and while I do think he’ll be a quality NFL QB, I also think he’s going to require a good bit of fine tuning along the way. The Rams are in a real pickle at QB. It’s really weird, but as a fan of both the Rams and the Buckeyes, I find both of my teams in really unique situations with their QB situation. The Buckeyes’ situation is a better one than the Rams. The Rams’ best option at this point would seem to be hoping for a solid return by Bradford. But that will give you hives all by itself. Drafting a rookie is every bit of a crap shoot as Bradford’s successful return. Acquiring a veteran is the same. A quality veteran on the market has to raise some serious red flags. Why is he on the market? There is talk that Jay Cutler could be moved in the off season. Anyone excited about those prospects? He scares me to death. Most other QBs on the market are going to have much of the same limitations that the QBs we already possess have. Coming out of this situation with a positive outcome will be like walking blindfolded through a mine field and coming out the other side in one piece with an ice cream cone in your hand.

Sounds like a great idea to me. Keep Bradford, Hill, and Davis.

If I was the Rams, I’d be drafting a QB somewhere every year until they have a long term answer. I don’t want to see the Rams repeat the 70s: a great defense held back by a limited QB.

Uggh….70’s hell.

That search for a QB never ended.

One word: Namath

In the twilight of his career, Namath was waived by the Jets to facilitate his move to the Los Angeles Rams when a trade could not be worked out. He was signed by the Rams on May 12, 1977. Namath hoped to revitalize his career, but by this point his effectiveness as a quarterback was greatly reduced by his knee injuries, a bad hamstring, and the general ravages of a long period of time playing professional football, as well as his “hard and fast” lifestyle. After playing well in a 2–1 start, Namath took a beating on a cold, windy, and rainy Monday night game in a one-point loss at the Chicago Bears, throwing two interceptions, with another being nullified by a penalty,[19] and was through for the regular season.

He did not play again, but redemption and a Hollywood ending was there for the taking. After a disastrous three quarters of turnovers and only trailing by seven points in the opening round of the playoffs, head coach Chuck Knox seemed ready to pull Pat Haden and insert Namath. Rams assistant coach Kay Stephenson said Namath looked great warming-up in the third quarter and advised Knox to put him in. The television audience was on the edge of their seats as it appeared Namath would replace Pat Haden and save the Rams’ season. But Knox hesitated. Haden’s problems continued and the Rams lost to the Vikings by a score of 14–7 in a sea of mud at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Namath retired from the Rams after a single season.

Maybe we can get Manning or Brady in 6 more years or so.

I hated having that black hole of a space on this team and it continued until Everett arrived. And then we fell back into it until Warner arrived. And now…who is the next ONE?

He’s out there. Somewhere.

rfl wrote:

– 1. We simply cannot count on Sam to remain healthy. If we keep him, we HAVE to have a starter-worthy guy to back him up.
– 2. Davis is not starter-worthy. He can provide some value off the bench, but your offense will not win games with him as a starter. If we keep him, he can’t be better than #3 going into the season.
– 3. We are unlikely to be in a position to draft a guy capable of winning numbers of games as a rookie.

1. I agree fully. But where do we get a starter-worthy qb? Probably not for next year or he would already be a starter. So what we need to do is have as good of backups as possible with an eye on the future.

2. Don’t write Austin Davis off after he has played only 9 games (with an 85+ qbr.) I don’t know how far he can go, but he will be better next year than he was this year. My guess is that the Rams will not only keep Davis but that he will be the Rams #2 in 2015. He will learn, keep his mistakes in check, and do very well. Davis has a big potential upside. Clemons last year had no upside. Hill has no upside. In thirteen seasons Hill has started 26 games. There is a reason for that.

3. If the Rams were to pick 1st in this year’s draft they could not draft a rookie qb who would be capable of winning “numbers of games”. But they should draft a qb somewhere in the first three rounds if they don’t have to reach too far.

Jameis Winston**, QB, Florida State
Height: 6-4. Weight: 230.
Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
Projected Round (2014): Top-10 Pick.
11/1/14: In 2014, Winston has completed 70 percent of his passes for 1,878 yards with 13 touchdowns and six interceptions.

If it weren’t for the off-the-field concerns, Winston would be the hands-down first pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. He is a better pocket passer and is more accurate than Marcus Mariota. However, the possibility of Winston sabotaging his NFL career with off-the-field run-ins is a real concern.

Against Notre Dame, Winston finished completing 23-of-31 passes for 273 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. He was suspended against Clemson for shouting an explicit phrase from a viral internet video in the cafeteria. It wasn’t a crime, but it once again displayed Winston’s lack of judgment and maturity off the field. His suspension almost, and should have, cost his team a loss. In his return to the field, Winston led a huge Florida State comeback against N.C. State. He completed 26-of-38 passes for 365 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions.

Winston had a so-so performance in the season opener against Oklahoma State. He made some uncharacteristic, bad decisions with the football, but also flashed his skill set as a pocket passer who can make all the throws for the NFL. Winston also had a highlight-reel 28-yard touchdown run.

8/27/14: Winston took college football by storm in 2013 as the Heisman Trophy winner while leading Florida State to a National Championship. The redshirt freshman demonstrated a quality arm with well-developed passing ability. Winston completed 67 percent of his passes for 4,057 yards with 40 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. On the ground, he ran for 219 yards with four touchdowns.

Winston is a rare athlete who is a natural passer. His field vision and decision-making were phenomenal in 2013. It was extremely impressive for a first-year starter and is scary to think how good his field vision could be in the future as he gains more experience. He also showed incredible poise for a young player. Winston is a rare talent.

Personal: Winston has had some off-the-field problems, including an investigation into a sexual assault and a theft at a Publix grocery store. He also has pitched for Florida State’s baseball team. His focus and maturity will be questioned by NFL teams.

Marcus Mariota*, QB, Oregon
Height: 6-4. Weight: 219.
Projected 40 Time: 4.65.
Projected Round (2015): Top-10 Pick.
11/1/14: So far this season, Mariota has completed 69 percent of his passes for 2,283 yards with 24 touchdowns and one interception. He also has five rushing touchdowns.

Speaking with NFL evaluators returns varied opinions on Mariota. Some teams feel he is worthy of a high first-round pick while others feel that is a reach because he needs to be taught pocket passing. Mariota has flashed some pocket-passing potential at times, but that ability is inconsistent and needs to become more automatic. Mariota also could stand to improve his accuracy, ball placement, and footwork.

In Week 2, Mariota made some huge, clutch passes and runs to lead the Ducks back from a deficit to beat Michigan State. Against the Spartans, he completed 17-of-28 passes for 318 yards with three touchdowns. Versus Washington, Mariota completed 24-of-33 passes for 336 yards with two touchdowns. He also flashed some good throws from the pocket. Mariota completed 17-of-27 passes for 210 yards with two touchdowns against UCLA. He also ran for 75 yards on seven carries with two touchdowns. It was a good tape for Mariota’s impressive physical skill set, but he didn’t answer questions about his pocket-passing ability.

Against Arizona, Mariota completed 20-of-32 passes for 276 yards with two touchdowns. While his numbers weren’t bad, he didn’t put the Ducks on his back and push them to victory. Mariota had opportunities for big plays and missed a number of throws with poor accuracy and ball placement. That tape won’t help his chances of being the first quarterback taken in the 2015 NFL Draft or the No. 1 overall pick.

Mariota has a strong arm, athleticism, toughness and great character. He does a great job of protecting the football from interceptions, but is prone to fumbles. Mariota enters the NFL in a similar developmental place as Cam Newton or Colin Kaepernick.

8/27/14: There is no denying that Mariota has a great physical skill set and is a tremendous athlete with rare mobility. He is a dangerous running threat. Mariota needs work to develop as a pocket passer for the NFL, but he has the arm, size and height to live in the pocket. Mariota needs to continue to refine his footwork, throwing mechanics, ball placement and field vision. However, the redshirt junior is a natural at throwing on the run and has big-play ability.

In 2013, Mariota completed 64 percent of his passes for 3,665 yards with 31 touchdowns and four interceptions. On the ground, the redshirt sophomore ran for 715 yards with nine touchdowns. While Mariota did a great job of avoiding throwing picks, he had some issues with fumbles.

Mariota did a good job of running Oregon’s high-scoring attack in 2012. The redshirt freshman completed 68 percent of his passes for 2,677 yards with 32 touchdowns and six interceptions. He also ran for 898 yards (752 net) with five touchdowns.

Mariota needs to use 2014 to show the NFL that he has the skills to thrive as a pocket passer.

Personal: From Hawaii. Majoring in human physiology. Son of Toa Mariota and Alana Deppe-Mariota.

Connor Cook*, QB, Michigan State
Height: 6-4. Weight: 218.
Projected 40 Time: 4.85.
Projected Round (2015): 1-2.
11/1/14: In 2014, Cook has completed 61 percent of his passes for 1,868 yards with 17 touchdowns and five interceptions.

In speaking with league sources, they say that Cook has the potential to be a high first-round pick if he improves certain aspects of his game, mainly accuracy. Cook has proven to NFL evaluators that he has a big arm, pocket presence, the mobility to avoid rushers and roll out, and the ability to make some precision throws. Cook plays in a pro-style system and has shown steady improvement with his ability to function out of the pocket while working through his progressions.

In many games, Cook has thrown the ball better than his numbers illustrate. He can make some amazingly accurate throws into extremely tight windows for completions downfield, but also has some inconsistency with his accuracy on the routine passes and when going deep down the middle. He has to improve his footwork and that will help his accuracy.

Against Oregon, the junior finished 29-of-47 for 343 yards with two scores and two picks. One interception wasn’t his fault, but the other was a bad throw. It wasn’t a perfect game, but Cook showed a lot of what the pros are looking for.

8/27/14: 2013 was Cook’s first year as the full-time starter, and he got off to a slow start before coming on strong in the second half of the season to help lead the Spartans to a Big Ten title and victory over Stanford in the Rose Bowl. Cook completed 58.7 percent of his passes for 2,755 yards with 22 touchdowns and six interceptions for the year. He had great games against Ohio State (24-40 for 304 with 3 touchdowns, 1 interception) and Stanford (22-36 for 332 yards with 2 touchdown, 1 interception) to close out the season.

Cook is generally a good decision-maker who has the size, arm and field vision to be a good pocket passer. He should be even better now that he has a year of experience. Becoming a first-round prospect isn’t out of the question for Cook, but skipping the 2015 NFL Draft and returning for his senior season of college football could help him achieve that.

Dak Prescott*, QB, Mississippi State
Height: 6-2. Weight: 230.
Projected 40 Time: 4.69.
Projected Round (2015): 1-2.
11/1/14: Prescott has been excellent in the early going of 2014. His play has been somewhat reminiscent of Tim Tebow at Florida because Prescott is playing in the same offense for Tebow’s former offensive coordinator, Dan Mullen, the Mississippi State head coach. In 2014, Prescott has completed 60 percent of his passes for 1,694 yards with 15 touchdowns and five interceptions. On the ground, he has averaged 5.4 yards per carry for 664 yards and 10 touchdowns. Like Tebow, Prescott needs to improve his pocket passing and accuracy for the NFL.

In 2013, Prescott completed 58 percent of his passes for 940 yards with 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Personal: Son of Nathan and the late Peggy Prescott. Majoring in educational psychology.

Garrett Grayson, QB, Colorado State
Height: 6-2. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
Projected Round (2015): 2-4.
11/1/14: In speaking with NFL sources, they identified Grayson as a sleeper prospect who has really impressed them. Grayson has a strong arm that can make all the throws. He displays some good accuracy at times, but needs to get more consistent. Grayson has some mobility to make throws on the run. His character receives good marks as he is viewed as a good teammate with leadership skills.

In 2014, Grayson has completed 65 percent of his passes for 2,456 yards with 21 touchdowns and five interceptions. He threw for over 400 yards in back-to-back games against Boise State and UC Davis. Grayson helped lead a comeback win over Boston College on the road. He had the most efficient passing game of any quarterback in the nation entering November as he completed 18-of-21 passes for 390 yards with five touchdowns against Wyoming.

In 2013, Grayson completed 62 percent of his passes for 3,696 yards with 23 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

Personal: Son of Brad and Jody Grayson. Majoring in communications. Uncle Danny Grayson was an All-American linebacker at Washington State and was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the seventh round of the 1990 NFL Draft.

Brett Hundley*, QB, UCLA
Height: 6-3. Weight: 227.
Projected 40 Time: 4.69.
Projected Round (2015): 2-4.
11/1/14: In 2014, Hundley has completed 71 percent of his passes for 2,056 yards with 14 touchdowns and four interceptions. He has four rushing touchdowns as well.

Entering the season, scouting sources across a number of NFL teams agreed that UCLA junior quarterback Brett Hundley was physically talented with upside, but they felt that he was inconsistent and overrated. Hundley did nothing to dispel that in the season opener against Virginia. He completed 20-of-33 passes for 242 yards and ran for 39 yards on 15 carries with a score. Hundley was then knocked out of the game against Texas with an injury to his non-throwing elbow (left).

When Hundley came back to the field, he picked a great time to have the best performance of his collegiate career and maybe start the process of changing minds in the scouting community. He showed huge improvements with his pocket passing, field vision, decision-making and working through his progressions in that massive game against Arizona State. He was 18-of-23 for 355 yards with four touchdowns while running for 72 yards on eight carries.

Hundley took a step backward versus Utah and was a big part of the Bruins taking 10 sacks against the Utes. He also was underwhelming against Oregon. Taking sacks is an issue for Hundley as he’s taken more than 100 across the past three years.

8/27/14: As a redshirt freshman in 2012, Hundley led the Bruins’ revival and helped get his team to the Pac-12 Championship Game. He completed 66 percent of his passes in 2012 for 3,740 yards with 29 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, plus ran for 702 yards (355 net) with nine touchdowns. Hundley scored on a 72-yard touchdown run against Rice on his first play that year. He threw for 372 yards against a good Oregon State team and finished the year with 329 yards and three touchdowns versus Baylor.

Hundley completed 67 percent of his passes in 2013 for 3,071 yards with 24 touchdowns and nine interceptions. On the ground, he ran for 970 yards (748 net) and 11 scores. Hundley led a furious comeback for a huge road win at Nebraska. In a win over Utah, he showed off his athletic ability when he caught a touchdown, ran for a touchdown and threw for a touchdown. Hundley struggled versus Stanford, but he played better against Oregon than his numbers indicated.

The UCLA coaching staff has a lot of NFL experience and is grooming Hundley well for the next level. He fits in the mold of athletic quarterbacks with good arms. Hundley has room for improvement, but he has the potential to rise high.

Personal: Undeclared major. Son of Brett, Sr. and April Hundley.

Sean Mannion, QB, Oregon State
Height: 6-5. Weight: 214.
Projected 40 Time: 4.76.
Projected Round (2015): 2-4.
11/1/14: In 2014, Mannion has completed 61 percent of his passes for 1,698 yards with seven touchdowns and five interceptions. He had an ugly game against USC where he demonstrated significant ineffectiveness when forced to move off of his spot in the pocket.

Mannion has been unable to get into a rhythm because his offensive line has been awful. His receivers haven’t stepped up to replace Brandin Cooks either. When his teammates have executed well, Mannion has missed some throws. Oregon State’s offense has been very out of sync all year.

8/27/14: Over three seasons as a starter, Mannion has improved his passing skills. He lit up Pac-12 defenses in 2013 as he completed 66.3 percent of his passes for 4,662 yards with 37 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. Mannion needs to improve his anticipation. He started the season strong before having some ugly games in November against USC, Arizona State and Washington. He is prone to hold on to the ball too long as he took 25 sacks as a junior and 24 sacks as a freshman (12 as a sophomore).

In 2012, Mannion completed 65 percent of his passes for 2,446 yards with 15 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He became the Beavers’ starting quarterback in 2011. The redshirt freshman completed 65 percent of his passes for 3,328 yards with 16 touchdowns and 18 interceptions.

There are three things that Mannion must improve in order to have a shot at being a first-round pick. They are: accuracy, anticipation and footwork. Mannion’s rough stretch last November can be attributed to those weaknesses. His interceptions came on inaccurate passes, and his feet weren’t always in rhythm. He also needs to play better against his elite opponents and not just rack up numbers against weak teams.

Personal: Son of John and Inga. Sean is a coach’s kid as his father is a high school football coach.

Kevin Hogan*, QB, Stanford
Height: 6-4. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.79.
Projected Round (2015): 3-5.
11/1/14: Hogan has completed 63 percent of his passes for 1,814 yards with 13 touchdowns and six interceptions. He has three rushing touchdowns, too. Hogan is still streaky as a passer, looking inept at times and throwing excellent passes on other attempts. He needs to become more consistent and should return to Stanford for his senior year.

8/23/14: Hogan wasn’t as good as expected in 2013 as Stanford’s passing attack was underwhelming. For the year, he completed 61 percent of his passes for 2,630 yards with 20 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Hogan averaged 4.5 yards per carry for 314 yards on the ground with two touchdowns, too. Stanford seemed to trust him less and less as the season wore on. Hogan is capable of making some great throws and has a good skill set, but he needs to become more consistent.

In an upset over Oregon, the redshirt junior made some clutch throws for the Cardinal. He had a letdown in a road loss at USC, but bounced back to a degree against Arizona State and UCLA. Hogan was wise to return to the Cardinal for 2014.

Hogan started out 2012 as a backup before taking over from Josh Nunes. The change paid off as Hogan played excellent football down the stretch. He completed 72 percent of his passes for 1,096 yards with nine touchdowns and three interceptions in 2012.

Hogan (6-4, 220) should get better with experience. He showed real passing talent with accuracy and a strong arm.

Personal: Majoring in science, technology and society. Son of Donna and Jerry Hogan.

Bryce Petty, QB, Baylor
Height: 6-3. Weight: 230.
Projected 40 Time: 4.75.
Projected Round (2015): 4-6.
11/1/14: WalterFootball.com knows that multiple NFL teams view Petty as a third-day prospect despite the hype from some draft pundits.

The view of league contacts was justified by Petty’s performance in the 2014 season opener. His accuracy was bad as he missed a lot of wide-open receivers that any NFL quarterback has to connect with. Petty finished 13-of-23 for 161 yards with two touchdowns in the air and ran for a touchdown. After missing a game with an injury, he played better against Buffalo and Iowa State.

Petty has completed 55 percent of his passes for 1,757 yards with 17 touchdowns and three interceptions. He has three rushing touchdowns. Petty needs to show improvement in his pocket passing and accuracy.

8/27/14: 2013 was an impressive debut season for Petty as Baylor’s starting quarterback. The dual-threat quarterback could definitely improve as a pocket passer now that he has gained a year of experience. Petty completed 62 percent of his passes last year for 4,200 yards with 32 touchdowns and three interceptions. He ran for 339 yards and 14 touchdowns as well. Petty backed up Robert Griffin III and Nick Florence for three seasons.

Personal: Son of Todd and Dena Petty. Graduated in May of 2013 with a degree in health science studies.

Jacoby Brissett*, QB, N.C. State
Height: 6-3. Weight: 239.
Projected 40 Time: 4.83.
Projected Round (2015): 4-6.
11/1/14: Brissett did something his old program, Florida, couldn’t do last year – beat Georgia Southern. He almost gave Florida fans more regrets by coming close to an upset of Florida State. Brissett was on fire against a lot of weak competition even before he lit up the Seminoles (32-of-48 for 359 yards with three touchdowns). He has completed 61 percent of his passes for 1,766 yards with 16 touchdowns and three interceptions. Brissett has shown potential as a pocket passer.

8/27/14: Brissett sat out the 2013 season per NCAA rules after transferring from Florida. He spent 2012 as Jeff Driskel’s backup. Brissett threw for 249 yards and a touchdown in relief duty.

Brissett came to Florida as a recruit of 1-year offensive coordinator Charlie Weis. Brissett began his freshman season as the third quarterback, but injuries forced him into the lineup. The freshman flashed at times and also had some struggles. He completed 18-of-39 passes for 206 yards with two touchdowns and four interceptions.

Brissett has good arm strength, pocket presence and composure.

Everett Golson, QB, Notre Dame
Height: 6-0. Weight: 200.
Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
Projected Round (2015): 4-6.
11/1/14: In his return to college football, Golson has looked improved with his passing skills. The senior has completed 62 percent of his passes for 1,996 yards with 19 touchdowns and six interceptions. He has 239 yards and four touchdowns on the ground.

8/27/14: After leading Notre Dame to the National Championship game in 2012, Golson was suspended for all of the 2013 season for cheating on an exam. In his one year as a starter, he completed 59 percent of his passes for 2,405 yards with 12 touchdowns and six interceptions. Golson ran for 415 yards and six touchdowns that season. He is said to have worked with quarterback coaches over his suspension to improve his passing ability.

Taysom Hill*, QB, BYU
Height: 6-2. Weight: 232.
Projected 40 Time: 4.68.
Projected Round (2015): 4-6.
11/1/14: Hill broke his leg against Utah State and is out for the season after having surgery. The junior was showing improvement in his pocket passing and field vision this season. He still has room to get better, but he was trending in the right direction.

Of course, Hill was dangerous on the ground, and for the second-straight year, he destroyed Texas’ defense. Hill completed 67 percent of his passes for 975 yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions. He’s rumbled for 460 yards – averaging 5.3 yards per carry – with eight touchdowns on the ground.

8/27/14: Hill is a running quarterback who could be a special player if he develops the ability to be a pocket passer. In 2013, Hill only completed 54 percent of his passes for 2,938 yards with 19 touchdowns and 14 interceptions, but on the ground, he ran for 1,595 yards with 10 touchdowns. Hill is a project who has potential.

Chuckie Keeton*, QB, Utah State
Height: 6-2. Weight: 200.
Projected 40 Time: 4.65.
Projected Round (2015): 5-7.
11/1/14: Keeton is out for the year with a knee injury. He battled, but was overmatched by Tennessee. His offensive line, wide receivers and running game gave him no support. In the next two games, Keeton clearly wasn’t himself. He completed 55 percent of his passes for 426 yards with two touchdowns and four interceptions in his three games.

8/27/14: Keeton started the 2013 season off well by completing 69 percent of his passes for 1,388 yards with 18 touchdowns and two interceptions. On the ground, he averaged 4.4 yards per carry for 241 yards and two touchdowns. Keeton injured his knee against BYU and was out for the rest of the year.

8/3/13: Keeton had a breakout sophomore season and was the 2012 First-Team All-WAC quarterback. He completed 68 percent of his passes for 3,373 yards with 27 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Keeton also ran for 751 yards (619 net) with eight touchdowns.

Personal: Management information systems major. Son of Charles and Lavern Keeton.

Cody Fajardo, QB, Nevada
Height: 6-2. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.72.
Projected Round (2015): 5-7.
11/1/14: Fajardo has completed 63 percent of his passes for 1,814 yards with 11 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

8/27/14: Fajardo has been solid for Nevada the past three seasons. In 2013, the junior completed 68 percent of his passes for 2,668 yards with 13 touchdowns and three interceptions. As a sophomore, he completed 67 percent of his passes for 2,786 yards with 20 touchdowns and nine interceptions.

Taylor Kelly, QB, Arizona State
Height: 6-2. Weight: 203.
Projected 40 Time: 4.71.
Projected Round (2015): 5-7.
11/1/14: Kelly has completed 60 percent of his passes for 805 yards with eight touchdowns and one interception. He also has done damage with his legs as he has two touchdowns. Kelly missed three games with an injured foot.

8/27/14: Kelly took over as the starting quarterback in 2012 to replace Brock Osweiler and has played well for the Sun Devils across the past two seasons. In 2013, Kelly threw for 3,635 yards with 28 touchdowns and 12 interceptions while completing 62 percent of his passes. He also hurt defenses on the ground with 852 yards and nine touchdowns.

The previous season, Kelly completed 67 percent of his passes for 3,039 yards with 29 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He has to improve his pocket passing and field vision. Kelly also has been sacked 70 times the past two years and needs to improve on avoiding negative yardage plays.

Travis Wilson*, QB, Utah
Height: 6-7. Weight: 233.
Projected 40 Time: 4.85.
Projected Round (2015): 6-FA.
11/1/14: Wilson has completed 57 percent of his passes for 1,027 yards with eight touchdowns and zero interceptions. He has been in and out of the lineup as he has been benched at times. It seems to have worked for Wilson, because after his return to the field, he led the Utes to an overtime win versus Oregon State and a win over USC.

8/27/14: Wilson completed 56 percent of his passes in 2013 for 1,827 yards with 16 touchdowns and 16 interceptions across nine games. His season ended early when concussion tests revealed a pre-existing condition that some thought might end his football career. At the conclusion of spring practice, head coach Kyle Whittingham said Wilson was the starter, and during the summer, Wilson received medical clearance to resume his collegiate football career. Wilson has held the starting job in training camp competition.

Wilson started seven games as a true freshman in 2012, and the Utes went 3-4 with him under center. He completed 63 percent of his passes for 1,311 yards with seven touchdowns and six interceptions. Wilson also ran for four touchdowns.

Personal: Son of JoMarie and Tim Wilson.

Braxton Miller, QB, Ohio State
Height: 6-2. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
Projected Round (2015): 6-FA.
8/27/14: Miller is out for the season with a shoulder injury to his throwing arm. He previously had offseason surgery to the same shoulder before the re-injury during fall practice. Miller stated that he plans to return to Ohio State in 2015. That is a wise decision because his passing is not close to NFL ready.

Miller is a great athlete who needs to improve as a pocket passer. He missed basically three games with injuries in 2013, but played well otherwise. Miller completed 64 percent of his passes during the year for 2,094 yards, 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions. His passing skills were somewhat improved, but he still had a long ways to go for the pros. The junior ran for 1,283 yards and 12 touchdowns on the ground.

Miller saw his first action as a freshman in 2011 and completed 54 percent of his passes for 1,159 yards with 13 touchdowns and four interceptions. His completion percentage in 2012 rose to 58 percent for 2,039 yards with 15 touchdowns and six interceptions. The sophomore ran for 1,271 yards and 13 touchowns, too.

Miller’s best skill is his running ability. His completion percentage is inflated by a lot of quick tosses. With mixed results in the NFL from Alex Smith and Tim Tebow, Urban Meyer hasn’t developed a reputation as a good developer of quarterbacks.

Personal: Communications major, son of Kelly and Kevin Miller.

J.W. Walsh*, QB, Oklahoma State
Height: 6-2. Weight: 205.
Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
Projected Round (2015): 6-FA.
11/1/14: Walsh played a gritty game against Florida State in the season opener. He almost had the Cowboys in position to pull off an upset, but his fourth-quarter fumble basically clinched the game for the Seminoles.

Walsh has completed 56 percent of his passes for 233 yards with a touchdown and interception. He broke his foot in the second game and has missed every outing since then.

8/27/14: Walsh earned playing time as a redshirt freshman in 2012 after backing up Brandon Weeden in 2011. Walsh flashed some passing and running ability during his playing time. He completed 67 percent of his passes for 1,564 yards with 13 touchdowns and three interceptions. Walsh ran for 320 yards (290 net) and seven touchdowns, too. In 2013, he completed 59.5 percent of his passes for 1,333 yards with nine touchdowns and five interceptions. The sophomore also missed five games, including the last four contests.

Personal: Son of John and Amber Walsh. Majoring in education.

Cody Kessler*, QB, USC
Height: 6-1. Weight: 210.
Projected 40 Time: 4.85.
Projected Round (2015): 6-FA.
11/1/14: Kessler has completed 70 percent of his passes for 2,148 yards with 20 touchdowns and two interceptions. He has been an effective game manager for the Trojans.

8/27/14: It took some time, but Kessler eventually won the starting quarterback spot for USC, and he improved as he gained experience. Kessler completed 65 percent of his passes for 2,968 yards with 20 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He doesn’t have the strongest of arms, but he has some ability as a game-manager.

Shawn Carden, QB, East Carolina
Height: 6-2. Weight: 221.
Projected 40 Time: 4.74.
Projected Round (2015): 6-FA.
11/1/14: Carden is a good college quarterback who has put up some huge numbers. As a senior, he’s completed 65 percent of his passes for 2,574 yards with 18 touchdowns and five interceptions. Carden led the Pirates to a road win at Virginia Tech and led them to putting up 70 points on North Carolina a week later.

Last year, Carden completed 71 percent of his passes for 4,129 yards with 33 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He completed 66 percent of his passes for 23 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.

Personal: Son of Jay and Scoti Carden. He is pursuing a master’s degree in instructional technology.

Bo Wallace, QB, Ole Miss
Height: 6-4. Weight: 217.
Projected 40 Time: 4.74.
Projected Round (2015): 6-FA.
11/1/14: Wallace has completed 71 percent of his passes for 1,271 yards with 11 touchdowns and six interceptions. He has lit up weak opponents, but has sometimes broken down when he playing a good team. Throughout his career, Wallace has been prone to interceptions, often at bad times.

Sources say that they view Wallace as a late-rounder or undrafted free agent. They say he lacks arm strength and has bad decision-making.

In 2013, Wallace completed 65 percent of his passes for 3,346 yards with 18 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He completed 64 percent for 2,994 yards with 22 touchdowns and 17 interceptions in 2012.

Personal: Son of Bill and Trina Wallace.

Devin Gardner, QB, Michigan
Height: 6-4. Weight: 210.
Projected 40 Time: 4.69.
Projected Round (2015): 7-FA.
11/1/14: Gardner’s accuracy, decision-making and ball placement are his fatal flaws. He’s completed 61 percent of his passes for 1,228 yards with six touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Gardner was benched against Minnesota, but returned to the starting lineup against Rutgers.

8/27/14: Gardner completed 60 percent of his passes in 2013 for 2,960 yards with 21 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. After playing well against Notre Dame, he struggled against Toledo, Connecticut and Michigan State. Gardner threw for 503 yards against Indiana. He also totaled 483 net yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground across the season.

Gardner began 2012 as a wide receiver before starting four games at quarterback to end the year. The junior completed 60 percent of his passes for 1,219 yards with 11 touchdowns and five interceptions. He also ran for 101 yards and seven touchdowns. As a receiver, Gardner caught 16 passes for 266 yards and four touchdowns.

Gardner is a good athlete who could be subject to a lot of debate about his future position in the NFL. He needs a strong fifth year in 2014 and needs to show the ability to be an effective pocket passer if he wants to remain a quarterback. Michigan has new offense that is supposed to fit Gardner better and produce a more consistent passing attack.

Nick Marshall, QB, Auburn
Height: 6-1. Weight: 210.
Projected 40 Time: 4.67.
Projected Round (2015): 7-FA.
11/1/14: Marshall was on the bench to start the season against Arkansas because of his marijuana arrest. The senior hasn’t shown enough progress as a pocket passer, and Auburn’s passing offense has been inconsistent this season. Marshall has completed 58 percent of his passes for 1,103 yards with 11 touchdowns and three interceptions. On the ground, he has averaged 6.8 yards per carry for 581 yards with seven scores.

Marshall should move to running back for the NFL. He has two receivers with first-round skill sets in Duke Williams and Sammie Coates, but can’t throw the ball with consistency.

8/27/14: The running quarterback helped guide Auburn to an SEC Championship and almost the National Championship last season. The first-year starter completed 59 percent of his passes for 1,976 yards with 14 touchdowns and six interceptions. On the ground, he ran for 1,225 yards with 12 touchdowns. Marshall has to develop the ability to be a pocket passer for the NFL. His accuracy, field vision and footwork need a lot of work. He is said to have spent the offseason working on those issues. Marshall hurt his draft stock with an arrest for marijuana possession in July of 2014.

Maty Mauk**, QB, Missouri
Height: 6-0. Weight: 200.
Projected 40 Time: 4.75.
Projected Round (2015): 7-FA.
11/1/14: Mauk has completed 52 percent of his passes for 1,368 yards with 16 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He flashes at times, but needs to improve his accuracy.

8/27/14: Mauk played for Missouri in 2013 while James Franklin was out of the lineup. Mauk only completed 51.1 percent of his passes (68-of-133), but he threw for 1,071 yards with 11 touchdowns and only two interceptions. The redshirt freshman held his own against some good defenses including Florida and South Carolina. Mauk should take over as the starter in 2014. He will have to overcome size concerns.

Personal: Son of Mike and Gwyn Mauk.

Gary Nova, QB, Rutgers
Height: 6-2. Weight: 225.
Projected 40 Time: 4.65.
Projected Round (2015): FA.
11/1/14: Nova has completed 60 percent of his passes for 1,949 yards with 14 touchdowns and nine interceptions.

8/27/14: Nova completed 55 percent of his passes in 2013 for 2,159 yards with 18 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. He is a pro-style game-manager quarterback. As a sophomore, Nova completed 57 percent of his passes for 2,695 yards with 22 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. He threw for 1,553 yards with 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions in 2011.

Jeff Driskel*, QB, Florida
Height: 6-4. Weight: 237.
Projected 40 Time: 4.63.
Projected Round (2015): FA.
11/1/14: Driskel has been a sufficiently huge disappointment this season to have lost his starting job. Driskel had a mixed performance against Kentucky, but was awful against Alabama. He has terrible bouts of inaccuracy. In speaking with NFL sources before the Alabama game, they were unimpressed with Driskel as his good physical set hasn’t translated to effective football for extended stretches. In 2014, Driskel has completed 53 percent of his passes for 928 yards with six touchdowns and 10 interceptions.

8/27/14: Driskel is a legitimate dual-threat quarterback. He is a big, quick runner with excellent mobility. Driskel needs to develop his pocket passing, and if he does, he could sky rocket. It currently looks like Driskel should stay for his senior season to improve before entering the NFL. Driskel played poorly in 2013 before an ankle injury ended his season in the third game. A new up-tempo spread offense is said to have Driskel looking much better during spring practice.

In 2013, Driskel completed 42-of-61 passes (69 percent) for 477 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions. He won the starting quarterback position in 2012. There were games that Driskel flashed greatness, but he struggled to move the ball in other outings. Driskel completed 64 percent of his passes for 1,646 yards with 12 touchdowns and five interceptions. He also ran for 716 yards (413 net) with four touchdowns.

Driskel was the top quarterback in the nation coming out of high school and signed on to play for Urban Meyer at Florida. Driskel honored his commitment to attend Florida despite Meyer leaving the Gators. The true freshman was a backup in 2011, but he saw playing time due to injuries. Driskel completed 16-of-34 passes for 148 yards with zero touchdowns and two interceptions for the year.

http://walterfootball.com/draft2015QB.php

I am going with Cook, if he comes out or Mannion or the most nfl ready passer. This would mean, Bradford, Hill, and a draft choice. And Fisher carrying 3 QBs on the roster.

TackleDummy wrote:

Zooey wrote:
Nobody has any idea what’s happening with Keenum or Gilbert.

Keenum is on the practice squad. Most practice squad members are signed to a contract at the end of the season and would be on the Rams 2015 preseason roster competing for a roster spot. Gilbert is not with the Rams in any capacity. It is not likely he will be brought back.

Are you sure? I looked through transactions and saw Gilbert signed to the PS, but didn’t see a transaction where he was dropped. Not that it matters much either way. Gilbert, I mean.

Zooey wrote:

Are you sure? I looked through transactions and saw Gilbert signed to the PS, but didn’t see a transaction where he was dropped. Not that it matters much either way. Gilbert, I mean.

I went to the Rams website, looked at the roster, and Gilbert is not on the PS. When he was released I don’t know.

nittany ram wrote:

Yeah, I remember seeing a tweet or something that said Gilbert had been released. I’m not sure exactly when but it wasn’t that long ago.

Yes it is as you and TD say. He was released Oct 30th. I learned this through the dark and arcane art of “looking it up.”

===

Rams waive former SMU quarterback Garrett Gilbert
October 30, 2014
http://collegesportsblog.dallasnews.com/2014/10/rams-waive-former-smu-quarterback-garrett-gilbert.html/

===
http://www.stlouisrams.com/team/roster.html

Practice Squad
# Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Age Exp. College
66 Baker, Steven T 6-8 310 25 1 East Carolina
16 Blake, Emory WR 6-0 192 23 1 Auburn
60 Bond, Travis OG 6-6 329 23 1 North Carolina
37 Bryant, Christian S 5-9 198 22 R Ohio State
71 Conrath, Matt DT 6-7 306 25 3 Virginia
48 Cunningham, Justice TE 6-3 258 23 1 South Carolina
17 Keenum, Case QB 6-1 205 26 2 Houston
47 Smelley, Brad TE 6-2 235 25 1 Alabama
35 Thomas, Jemea DB 5-10 195 24 0 Georgia Tech
19 Wylie, Devon WR 5-9 187 26 2 Fresno State

I learned this through the dark and arcane art of “looking it up”.

nittany ram wrote:

This “looking it up” you speak of…do all of your people possess such lore?

Some. Not all.