Prospects with tough 2016 NFL Draft Decisions
By Jon Dove
Oct 17, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Adolphus Washington (92) sacks Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won the game 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports
Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State
Christian Hackenberg’s situation is very different from the one facing Cardale Jones. This because there’s little chance Hackenberg will be replaced as the starter. Penn State’s offense has struggled with him at the helm, but he’s by-far the most talented quarterback on the roster.
Hackenberg’s decision is difficult because his stock is at an all-time low but is stuck in an offense that doesn’t seem to fit his skill set. His play and production has dropped in each of the two seasons with James Franklin as head coach.
The choice for Hackenberg is to enter the draft where he’s likely to come off the board lower than he expected or return to Penn State—putting his trust/future in Franklin.
There have been several sideline situations that might give us a peek into Hackenberg’s thinking. It’s obvious that he’s becoming increasingly frustrated with his play and overall ineffectiveness of the offense. He might see a brighter future taking a chance in the NFL where he’ll land with a coach more likely to work to his strengths.
Next: Corey Coleman