Brock Purdy does not help 2021 NFL Draft stock with early struggles

The early struggles of Brock Purdy won’t help his 2021 NFL Draft stock

Going into the 2020 college football season, it seems like the top three quarterback 2021 NFL Draft prospects are set. Clemson’s Trevor Lawrence appears to have a firm stranglehold on the “QB1” title, at least at the moment. There is certainly a long way to go. Behind him, Justin Fields is coming off of one of the most remarkable and efficient seasons in college football history. North Dakota State’s Trey Lance has shot up draft boards after his 2019 campaign. There has been debate about Florida’s Kyle Trask, Wake Forest’s Jamie Newman, and Iowa State’s Brock Purdy.

Who follows them? 2020 saw four quarterbacks go in the first round. Could there be another young signal caller hearing his name called on the opening night of the draft. For much of the Summer, Iowa State’s Brock Purdy seemed like the most likely candidate for that title. After his rough opener against Louisiana, Purdy has left many wondering if he’s still worthy of that spot.

Purdy is the prototypical weaker armed quarterback. He stands tall in the pocket and loves to attack the middle of the field. However, he just does not have the requisite arm strength that many are looking for at the next level. He also has a nasty habit of throwing off platform, specifically off of his back foot. His accuracy is hampered by his bad habit and lack of elite arm talent.

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In week one of the 2020 college football season, Purdy had a chance to show why he could be worthy of a day one pick. Purdy and his Iowa State Cyclones hosted the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns. The young quarterback also had a chance to show he can overcome adversity. Iowa State would be without his favorite target, tight end Charlie Kolar. Even without Kolar, Purdy should have dominated this lesser opponent.

Well, he did not. Purdy struggled mightily. He completed 16 of 35 attempts for 135 yards and one interception. Iowa State was also shut out in the second half of the game and lost by 17 points at home. Purdy was able to scramble seven times for 35 yards and picked up a few first downs along the way. However, his lack of arm strength was evident.

All in all, it was a disappointing outing for Purdy. With Fields and Lance not playing, all eyes were on Purdy and Trevor Lawrence. The young man from Iowa State did not deliver. He did most of his work in the middle of the field, not getting much on the outside. His one interception came on a ball that he certainly could have put more in if he had the arm to do so. Purdy may see his draft stock plummet with more performances like yesterday.