2018 NFL Draft: Key strengths and weaknesses for Lamar Jackson

Weakness: Throwing Accuracy

The NFL is a defense-oriented league, but teams without reliable quarterback play will fall short of expectations. In the case of Lamar Jackson, his dynamic play is admittedly complemented by a question of whether or not he can be a trustworthy pocket passer.

Much of Jackson’s inconsistency has been overblown and overstated, but one can’t help but question if he has the accuracy to excel under pressure.

Jackson improved his completion percentage in each of his three seasons at Louisville, which is an admitted feather in his cap. It’s bigger than the numbers, however, as Jackson is simply more likely to hit the open man than he is to throw a receiver open.

This could change as he improves his ability to read coverages, but in his current form, Jackson is essentially a dynamic runner and an average passer—an archetype that doesn’t tend to last in the NFL.

When the pocket collapsed and Jackson was forced to rifle throws to his wide receivers, he often failed to put the ball where it needed to be. Louisville admittedly lacked playmakers and high-quality pass protectors, but it may not be any easier for Jackson as a rookie.

Other quarterbacks in this draft class have accuracy issues themselves, but we need to focus more on Jackson and less on the field. This is an area in which he must improve.