2018 NFL Draft: Key strengths and weaknesses for Kurt Benkert

Strength: Making NFL Throws

Let’s get right down to it: There are plenty of quarterbacks who have big arms in the 2018 NFL Draft. The difference between arm strength and pro-level passing ability, however, is the rare skill level that enables a player to actually make the necessary throws.

Being physically capable certainly helps, but it takes an NFL-caliber quarterback to make the NFL-caliber throws that aren’t always required at the collegiate level.

Benkert checks every box, starting with the fact that he does an outstanding job of putting the ball where only his receiver can get it. He can take unnecessary chances due to his gunslinger mentality, but Benkert is fearless and capable when it comes to fitting throws into tight windows.

The key to the success that he’s experienced in that regard is the ability to place the ball either ahead or behind his receiver depending on the coverage they’re facing.

If Benkert has to go deep, he’s proven time and time again that he can get air under his throws and hit his receiver in stride. If he has to find a player over the middle, he’s firmly established that he can put velocity behind his passes and place the ball exactly where it needs to be.

Throw in the ability to throw to the sidelines and Benkert’s arm talent shouldn’t be questioned by anyone but those who believe the false narratives that exist.

This young man can make every throw on the field with both accuracy and velocity.