With The First Pick
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Sam Darnold, USC: 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report

By Jon Dove

Apr 15, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws a pass during the annual 2017 Spring Game at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum . Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 15, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws a pass during the annual 2017 Spring Game at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum . Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /
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USC’s Sam Darnold has quickly established himself as one of the premier quarterback prospects eligible for the 2018 NFL Draft.

Sam Darnold has been very impressive in limited action with the USC Trojans. His emergence as the starting quarterback helped get a struggling program back on the right track. It’s his calm demeanor and playmaking ability that make him a special talent.

Darnold has a strong throwing arm that allows him to reach all levels of the field. He can generate good zip on his sideline throws and over the middle.

This is a good overall athlete who can move in the pocket and gain yards with his legs. However, Darnold does prefer to get the job done from in the pocket. He even shows the ability to make small shifts to avoid pressure.

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Darnold flashes the ability to deliver the ball with anticipation and throw his receivers open. He trusts his reads and doesn’t hesitate to let it loose. Darnold will also go through his progressions and work across the field.

This anticipation is rare to see in such a young quarterback. His overall delivery and throwing motion is quick and easy.

Despite his success, Darnold isn’t a finished product and has a few areas of his game to iron out. The biggest problem is that doesn’t routinely tie his eyes, feet and shoulders towards his target. He often releases the ball off balanced which impacts his overall accuracy.

Darnold’s accuracy is also negatively impacted by the fact he will fade off his throws. He needs to focus on planting his back foot and stepping towards his target when delivering the ball. His poor mechanics in this situation lead to some balls sailing high.

The hiccups in Darnold’s game are all things that can be corrected with experience coaching. He is still very young and has limited starting experience.

Overall, Darnold has tons of raw talent and shows the mental makeup needed to handle the position. He’s proven himself to be a winner with the capability to succeeding in pressure situations. It would not surprise me if Darnold was the 1st name called during the 2018 NFL Draft.

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