2018 NFL Draft: Key strengths and weaknesses for Lamar Jackson

2018 NFL Draft prospect Lamar Jackson has come under fire for his run-first approach to the quarterback position. Is he a legitimate NFL QB?

As the 2018 NFL Draft approaches, no player has emerged as a more divisive figure than Lamar Jackson. The 2016 Heisman Trophy award-winner has earned a vast number of fans and supporters, all the while alienating conventional thinkers as the antithesis of a traditional quarterback.

That unorthodox approach has inevitably alienated the masses and caused many to question where he should be selected in the 2018 NFL Draft—and at what position.

It may seem absurd to question what position a Heisman Trophy winning quarterback should play in the NFL. Some understandably fear that Jackson is more Eric Crouch than Marcus Mariota, however, which has ultimately resulted in overwhelming question marks.

That discussion grew even louder in recent days.

In a recent appearance on the ESPN LA Morning Show with Keyshawn, Jorge, and LZ, former NFL executive Bill Polian commented that Jackson may be better as a wide receiver (h/t The Big Lead).

"“I don’t think that Lamar, the Louisville kid’s in that discussion, in fact there’s a question that he may be, he might be a receiver.” “I’m not saying he isn’t [an NFL quarterback], I just don’t think he’s in the class of the other three.”"

The, “Other three,” in this discussion are fellow 2018 NFL Draft prospects and quarterbacks Josh Allen, Sam Darnold, and Josh Rosen.

Jackson is one of the greatest individual talents that college football has ever known. Known more for running the football than throwing it, however, there’s a widespread belief that he may not be able to play quarterback in the NFL.

The question is: Can Lamar Jackson play quarterback at the highest possible level? His strengths and weaknesses may be able to answer that question.