2021 NFL Draft: Ranking battle for QB4 as Zach Wilson, Mac Jones join fight
By Cory Kinnan
1. Mac Jones, Alabama
Looking to be the next Alabama quarterback to hear his name called in the first round pick after Tua Tagovailoa landed with the Dolphins, Mac Jones is off to a hot start with the Crimson Tide and may just be in position to be that fourth quarterback off the board. Given the weak nature of the class outside of Lawrence, Fields, and Lance, Jones has the edge over Purdy, Trask, Wilson, and Newman at this point in the season.
Thus far, Jones is off to a blazing start, completing nearly 80 percent of his passes, tossing for 1,100 yards, eight touchdowns, and just one interception on the season. His deep balls to the likes of DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle have been on the money as Jones shows the poise to stand in and step up in the pocket and deliver a strike down the field.
Jack Borowsky of The Dynasty Draft Room adds some insight into Jones’ ability under center in Tuscaloosa:
"“Mac has really polished footwork within the pocket. He is athletic enough for the position, and Jones has the ability to run when need be. He is a really solid intermediate thrower. Mac will utilize his top tier receivers to his advantage by throwing with anticipation. He can throw the deep ball well enough to get by. He has quick feet within the pocket, allowing him to step up and avoid pressure. He can extend plays when need be, but at Alabama, he mostly is kept within the pocket.”"
Next. 2021 NFL Mock Draft: Lions land Jaylen Waddle, Panthers take Kyle Pitts. dark
His portfolio is rather thin at this point, with less than a season of starting action under his belt. However, it looks as though Jones has taken a leap between 2019 and now after backing up Tagovailoa a season ago. Given the quarterback needy nature of now several teams in the NFL heading towards the 2021 NFL Draft, it is not an exaggeration to say Jones may be a top-ten pick when this April’s main event arrives.