An Early Look at the Top-5 Quarterbacks in the 2016 NFL Draft

Dec 27, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) drops back to pass against the Boston College Eagles during the first quarter in the 2014 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

No. 5: Christian Hackenberg

At 6’4″, 245 pounds, Christian Hackenberg is the type of pocket quarterback the NFL is looking for. To go with that size, he has pocket presence, field-vision and a strong arm to make every throw. But his 56 percent completion percentage with 2,677 yards, 12 touchdowns and 15 interceptions in 2014 is not what you want.

But he has the traits you look for and comes from Penn State, where they run a pro style offense. He’s consistently required to go through progressions and throw into tight windows but didn’t do it well in 2014. More interceptions than touchdowns in a season is unacceptable so he needs to clean some things up.

In 2015, accuracy and good decision-making are the two main things a quarterback must show. Hackenberg is on the list because he showed he has the tools it takes to be a high 1st-round pick. But I have him here at No. 5 because he regressed from a good freshman season with 59 percent, 2,955 yards 20 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.

Next: Connor Cook