2018 NFL Draft Position Ranking: Quarterbacks
By Jon Dove
This article looks at my final 2018 NFL Draft Position Rankings for the quarterback position.
The quarterback group for this 2018 NFL draft will likely drive the outcome of the 1st round. However, there are several mid-round prospects who could also develop into contributors at the next level.
This year’s group is so intriguing because we could see as many as 6 quarterbacks selected in the 1st round. It’s also anticipated that we will see 4 come off the board within the top-10 picks. We could also see several trades revolving around these prospects.
Below are my top-10 quarterbacks for the 2018 NFL Draft.
1. Josh Rosen, UCLA
Big Board Rank- No. 5 Overall
Rosen is a smooth pocket passer who throws with anticipation. He does a good job reading the defense and understanding concepts. Rosen should be able to see the field early in his rookie season.
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The biggest knocks surrounding Rosen are his injury history and character. However, the injury situation is the more concerning.
2. Josh Allen, Wyoming
Big Board Rank- No. 5 Overall
Allen has a huge throwing arm which gives him the ability to deliver the ball with a ton of zip. He is also an excellent athlete who can extend plays. The questions about his overall accuracy are legitimate, but also a little overblown.
There were a lot of situations where Allen was forced to make some off balanced throws where he was attempting to make a play for his team.
3. Sam Darnold, USC
Big Board Rank- No. 7 Overall
Darnold entered last season as my top rated quarterback prospect. That was based on his play as a redshirt freshman as well as projecting a step forward in his development. However, Darnold regressed a little and struggle with turnovers.
This is still a highly talented quarterback with exceptional poise and success in pressure situations.
4. Mason Rudolph, Oklahoma State
Big Board Rank- No. 33 Overall
Rudolph has the arm talent, experience and athleticism to succeed at the next level. He is a more polished passer than he gets credit for which could help him find success early in his career. There are too many people sleeping on Rudolph.
5. Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma
Big Board Rank- No. 34 Overall
Mayfield is such a tough prospect to evaluate for me. His lack of ideal size and erratic play doesn’t typically hold up in the NFL. However, he is a proven winner whose accuracy and ball placement give him a chance to succeed.
The biggest take I have is that he isn’t worthy of a top-10 pick and would bring more value in the 2nd round.
6. Lamar Jackson, Louisville
Big Board Rank- No. 60 Overall
Jackson absolutely has the potential to develop into a successful NFL quarterback. He has a strong throwing arm, good feel for the game and elite athleticism. The key to his success will be landing with a patient and creative offensive staff.
7. Luke Falk, Washington State
Big Board Rank- No. 66 Overall
Prior to the start of the season, I had Luke Falk rated as a potential 1st round prospect. He hasn’t fallen too much on my board as I consider him as a mid to late 2nd round pick. Falk is an accurate thrower with more than enough arm strength.
8. Mike White, Western Kentucky
White has a big-time throwing arm and doesn’t hesitate to take chances down the field. There is absolutely starter potential here.
Big Board Rank- No. 78 Overall
9. Kyle Lauletta, Richmond
Big Board Rank- No. 124 Overall
Lauletta rode a strong Senior Bowl performance to a better overall draft stock. He could hear his name called as early as the 3rd round.
10. Kurt Benkert, Virginia
Big Board Rank- No. 177 Overall
Benkert can be a little erratic at times, but features a strong throwing arm and downfield accuracy.