2018 NFL Draft: The big question facing Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson is one of the most dynamic athletes in NFL Draft history, but there’s an issue that could severely impact his draft stock.
Lamar Jackson is one of the most prolific playmakers in college football history. An electrifying runner with a big arm and an uncanny ability to make the big play, Jackson elevated a Louisville Cardinals program that provided him with limited aid offensively.
With the 2018 NFL Draft on the horizon, however, Jackson continues to face criticism and scrutiny that few others in his class are encountering.
Jackson is truly dynamic, but he continues to be asked to answer questions about his ability to play from the pocket. He struggles with his accuracy on short and intermediate range throws, which would greatly limit his effectiveness in the NFL.
According to Tom Pelissero of NFL.com, the question that Jackson will face is how long it will take for him to be able to consistently play from the pocket.
"“To be able to read defenses and play in the pocket — I’m not saying he can’t, he’s really talented, but it’s going to take him awhile to do that,” another NFC exec said. “Now, you can throw him in there and he’s going to run around and make plays, but how long can you do that? I like the kid. You’re going to have to really adjust what you do offensively.”"
Mobile quarterbacks are no strangers to success in the NFL, but Jackson wouldn’t be the first to fall down draft boards due to the fear that they can’t immediately operate under center.
Michael Vick was selected at No. 1 overall in the 2001 NFL Draft, but he’s more of the exception than the rule. Colin Kaepernick was a second-round draft pick, Russell Wilson fell to Round 3, and Tyrod Taylor wasn’t selected until Round 6.
Cam Newton went No. 1 in 2011 and Robert Griffin III was the No. 2 overall selection in 2012, but Newton had a prototypical build and Griffin was a far more polished pocket passer than Jackson.
The question moving forward will be a matter of whether or not Jackson can bulk up and improve his accuracy.
Only so much can be accomplished in one offseason, but Jackson would benefit greatly from showing signs of improvement in both regards. A sturdier frame will imply that he can remain healthy in the NFL, while improved accuracy will temper some of the concerns about his arm.
Jackson has the raw ability to be one of the best players in the 2018 NFL Draft, but failing to improve in those two areas could severely damage his draft stock.
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The question is: Which team will take a chance on Lamar Jackson realizing his superstar potential at the 2018 NFL Draft?