Draft Profile Series: Zach Mettenberger
- Updated: April 23, 2014
As we approach the deepest NFL Draft in recent memory, I’ll give my breakdown and analysis of 75 top prospects in this year’s class. At the conclusion of this series, I will include my final overall and positional rankings, as well as my mock draft.
Zach Mettenberger, QB, 6-5, 230, LSU
Key stats: Completed 65% of his passes for 3,082 yards, 22 TDs and eight interceptions.
Strengths: Big, very tough, strong-armed quarterback who played in pro-style offense. … Can make throws few in this class of QBs can. … Well versed in NFL-style offense and was asked to make all the throws needed to play in the NFL, including deep crosses and deep out patterns. Also had pretty good touch when needed. … Goes through his progressions, and is schooled in play-action. He also anticipates his throws well and can fit the ball into small windows. … He will stand in the pocket under pressure and take a shot in the chops to deliver the ball.
Weaknesses: Has limited mobility. … Immaturity was a problem early in his career … As is the case with most strong-armed QBs, he sometimes tries to fit passes into areas that he shouldn’t. … Is not wild, but can improve on accuracy to allow more yards after catch from his receivers. … Injury history is an issue, as his limited mobility took another shot when he tore his left ACL and MCL against Arkansas in November. .. Had great talent surrounding him at LSU, so did they make him look good or vice versa?
Conclusion: Mettenberger has a shot to be an NFL starter early in his career if he is lucky enough to find a good fit. … If he can get the ball out a little quicker and feel the rush a little sooner he will limit the negative plays that kill drives. … If put in an offense that has a strong offensive line, Mettenberger will quickly show that he has what’s needed to be a starting quarterback, or at least a capable backup early in his career.
NFL comparison: Ryan Mallett.
Draft projection: Second or third round.
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