2018 NFL Draft: Key strengths and weaknesses for Kurt Benkert

Strength: Mechanics

Perhaps this should have been the first point made, as it’s often the foundation of success at the quarterback position. You can certainly teach proper mechanics, but the idea of drafting a player who’s already mechanically sound is understandably appealing.

In that scenario, a coach can help his quarterback improve in the areas of the game that are less about mechanics and more about reads, athleticism, and learning the system.

That’s the appeal with Benkert, as he simply comes off as a natural quarterback. He lacks experience under center, but his body control is excellent, his base is rarely too wide, and his throwing motion action is compact and fluid.

Whether he gets to go through a full throwing motion or has to fire out a quick pass in the face of pressure, Benkert has the mechanics and situational arm strength to make plays.

When Benkert is rolling out of the pocket, he does an excellent job of squaring his shoulders before throwing downfield. His footwork is excellent for a player at this stage of their development, as well, which should help him transition to a role under center..

Josh Rosen may be the mechanically sound quarterback who’s garnering headlines, but Benkert isn’t too far behind from a purely fundamental perspective.