2019 NFL Draft: Justin Herbert could be special at the next level

Oregon Ducks quarterback Justin Herbert faces injury concerns, but a healthy season could make him the first player off the board at the 2019 NFL Draft.

The NFL Draft has an uncanny ability to disregard the prospects whom most agree sit above the top quarterbacks. Players such as Bradley Chubb and Quenton Nelson aren’t entirely ignored, but field generals tend to take precedence in a league that’s prioritized the ability to move the ball through the air.

That could continue during the 2019 NFL Draft, when the superstar-caliber defensive linemen could be overshadowed at the top of the board by the quarterbacks.

In a previous article, With the First Pick outlined why Missouri Tigers star Drew Lock is the quarterback to watch in the 2019 NFL Draft. In addition to having an elite ceiling, he’ll be making the transition to a pro style offense during the 2018 season.

True as that may be, there are many around the football world who believe it’s Oregon Ducks field general Justin Herbert who will be the first quarterback off the board.

That route tree is a fair indication of why.

Herbert is a 6’6″ and 225-pound prototype of a quarterback who possesses a lively arm and above-average athleticism. He throws one of the prettier deep balls in the country, and is also one of the best in the nation at getting the ball out quickly to avoid the pass rush.

That much is proven by the fact that he has the highest passer rating of any returning Pac 12 quarterback within 2.5 seconds of the snap.

Many quarterbacks benefit from the presence of an elite offensive line, but Herbert has proven that he can make the quick read.

Durability is a concern, as Herbert suffered a collarbone injury that forced him to miss five games in 2017. When he’s been healthy, however, he’s proven to be one of the most accurate and dynamic talents at the quarterback position.

Over the course of 16 games, Herbert has accumulated 3,919 passing yards, 34 passing touchdowns, and just nine interceptions.

Herbert has also run for 344 yards and seven touchdowns, thus displaying the second layer of his appeal: An ability to create with his legs. Riveting as it may be to see him make a defense pay with his legs, however, it’s most noteworthy that he’s comfortable operating within the confines of the pocket.

Those who wish to dispute that belief can turn to the efficiency with which Herbert has thrown the ball through 16 appearances.

Health will be a key, but when Herbert is on the field, he’s a truly awe-inspiring talent who’s receiving hype as a candidate to go No. 1 overall in 2019.

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The NFL has a number of quarterback prospects to look forward to, but it’s understandable for Justin Herbert to receive the early hype—health permitting.