Why College Football Is Failing to Develop NFL QBs

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Game Time Decisions

Concerns Grow Over College Football’s Quarterback Pipeline

The outlook for the next quarterback draft class has changed dramatically. Before the season, it was expected to be one of the best quarterback classes of all time. Now, questions surround projected first-round picks such as Dante Moore and Manning, while the player expected to be selected first overall was not viewed that way entering the season.

The larger concern is that college football is not adequately preparing quarterbacks to play at the NFL level. Constantly changing schools, coaches and systems is not viewed as an effective way to develop franchise quarterbacks. Even Mendoza, a national championship-winning quarterback and the number one pick, has not been prepared to take the field.

This shortage could make Kirk Cousins one of the most coveted quarterbacks of the offseason. A year ago, it appeared his career might be over after his situation in Atlanta. However, that outcome was attributed more to the organization’s decision to sign him for $160 million and then immediately bring in his replacement, creating a quarterback controversy.

NFL teams also have few alternatives. Even highly regarded organizations can miss when evaluating quarterbacks. The 49ers whiffed on Trey Lance before Brock Purdy unexpectedly became their quarterback.

Looking ahead, there is no clear college quarterback who can be trusted to start in Week 1 next season. Lenora Sellers could eventually become a strong option, but Chambliss was identified as the only quarterback who appears ready to play on Sundays. He succeeded at every level, came from a Division 2 school and took over the job at Ole Miss under Kiffin after not initially being chosen.

Manning remains another question because it is unclear how his play at Texas will translate. Mess the Maker was also discussed as a potential first pick, although he wants to return to Oklahoma State.