NFL Draft: The Myth of the Sure Thing QB
Feb 1, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) throws a pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Wilson might be the QB that Browns fans hang their heads about. Wilson was drafted in the 3rd round in the same draft that the Browns drafted Brandon Weeden. Based on the surrounding cast, I am unsure if Wilson would have been successful in Cleveland. In Seattle he has grown as a QB but was carried early on by a great defense and running game. That is something the Browns currently have, which could help a young QB develop like Wilson.
Wilson had a good arm and a ton of intangibles coming out of college. Size was a concern as many thought it would impact his ability to be a pocket passer. NFL.com noted size as his only weakness:
"WEAKNESSES Wilson’s height will be his biggest inhibitor at the next level and the largest reason for his late-round value. It remains to be seen if he can throw effectively from the pocket at the next level."
Wilson went in the 3rd round, wasn’t considered likely to start (remember Matt Flynn) and was given a great situation where he had no pressure. He has succeeded but no one thought he was a sure thing coming into the draft.
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