2016 NFL Mock Draft: Holiday Update
By Jon Dove
Dec 5, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan State Spartans quarterback Connor Cook (18) looks to pass during the first quarter against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Big Ten Conference football championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
19. Houston Texans (6-7)- Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State
Michigan State’s Connor Cook doesn’t get enough attention as an NFL Draft prospect. Many see him as a game manager type whose numbers don’t match up with the other top prospects. However, Cook has proven to be a winner and has experience in a pro-style system.
While at Michigan State, he was asked to run an offense that focus on establishing a ground game and playing strong defense. This limited the amount of opportunities Cook had to throw the football and pad his stats.
The fact is that Cook has the size, arm strength and athleticism to be a good NFL quarterback. He would be a great fit for the Houston Texans and head coach Bill O’Brien. Cook would have a chance to potentially sit behind Brian Hoyer and learn the game.
O’Brien is known as a strong quarterback coach and adding Cook would give him a nice piece of clay to mold.
Many will mention Penn State’s Christian Hackenberg as a fit for the Texans. He has a history with O’Brien from their days at Penn State, possesses a big arm and tons of potential. The issue is that Hackenberg’s stock has suffered a significant fall because of his struggles this past year.
Houston would have a hard time justifying pulling the trigger on Hackenberg in the 1st Round.
Next: No. 20 Pittsburgh