2021 NFL Draft: Who has the edge between Trey Lance vs. Zach Wilson?
By Cory Kinnan
Where Trey Lance has the edge
As we look at where each prospect might have the edge over the other. First we start with Lance, the preseason QB3 as he sits on his dominant 2019 tape and on his 2020 showcase game against CAU.
Not only does Lance have the advantage over Wilson in the arm talent department, but he is second to only Lawrence when it comes to natural gifts. To think every FBS program that wanted to recruit Lance wanted him to switch to the defensive side of the ball and play either safety or linebacker. The ball just zips out of Lance’s hand, as he can seemingly heave the ball 50 or more yards in the air. He throws one of the most beautiful deep balls in the class.
Another area where Lance has the edge over Wilson is in his ability to operate on time in the short game and within structure. Wilson seemingly seems to get flustered in the pocket and struggles to work on timing routes at the top of his drops. This is not an area of struggle for Lance.
Lance also has the advantage over Wilson in his footwork. Lance remains technically polished in his drops, operates with a smooth throwing motion, and squares his shoulders to his midline before rifling down the field for the Bison.
Drae Harris of The Draft Network breaks down Lance’s game in his scouting report:
"“He has a quick and compact release and effortlessly throws the football. His strong base helps him generate excellent velocity with his throws. The ball jumps out of his hands and he demonstrates the ability to accurately throw the 5 route from the far hash (2019 Youngstown and Northern Iowa game.) He shows very good accuracy in the short to intermediate range and also on deep balls. His very good arm strength allows him to fit the ball in tight windows.”"
As far as tools are concerned, there is a massive appeal to the game of Lance. Not only is he young, just a redshirt sophomore, but there are some areas that have some draft pundits putting Wilson above Lance in their rankings. We take a look at those next.