Draft Profile Series: Derek Carr
- Updated: May 2, 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 a mock draft.
Derek Carr, QB, 6-2½, 214, Fresno St.
Key stats: Completed 69% of passes for 5,083 yards, with 50 TDs and 8 interceptions.
Strengths: Intelligent signal-caller with good arm strength and a quick release. … Does nice job moving linebackers with his eyes and opening throwing lanes. … Has good timing. … Is a good athlete that can extend plays, and run when necessary. … Carr is a grounded, mature team leader. … Reads defenses relatively well, and was in command of offense. … Played in pro-style offense in 2011.
Weaknesses: Average height and size for position. … Smallish hands could be problems in cold or inclement weather. … Played in wide-open offense the past two seasons and was almost exclusively in shotgun. … Much of Fresno State’s offense consisted of bubble screens and very short passes. … Would’ve liked to see more deep throws. … Needs to handle cluttered pocket better. … Struggles throwing under pressure. … Sees the rush at times, instead of keeping eyes downfield.
Conclusion: Carr is a rhythm passer that best fits in a West Coast offense that utilizes his ability to get the ball out quickly on short and intermediate routes. … Is extremely effective while throwing in rhythm. … When his first option is not there, he looks uncomfortable. … I’m also leery of quarterbacks that play in wide-open offenses in non-major conferences. … Much of Carr’s production is due to the fact that opposing defenses just couldn’t match Fresno’s skill players. … However, Carr’s quick release and above-average arm strength make him an intriguing prospect. … If he goes to team with good line, he could do well. If not, I think he’d be best suited sitting for a season or two, like Aaron Rodgers did. … If put under the gun early in his career, Carr could suffer a similar fate as his brother, David.
NFL comparison: Andy Dalton/Case Keenum.
Draft projection: First or second round.
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