NFL Draft: The Myth of the Sure Thing QB

Dec 28, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) looks to pass against the Philadelphia Eagles during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. The Eagles defeated the Giants 34-26. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Eli Manning

Eli’s stock has fallen greatly in the past few years. Whether it is the talent around him, the new stadium or aging, Manning isn’t considered “elite” anymore. He actually wasn’t considered that outside of his ability to lead his team in the playoffs. He rarely has the numbers that backup the reputation that many have of him. The Giants have been led by a good run game and defense more than by Eli.

Yet he was selected #1 overall and the Giants paid a pretty big ransom to trade for him. He was considered close to a sure thing and the Giants were glad to have him. There were some concerns about him though as one site had him as safe not “franchise”:

"However, after spending many hours evaluating the players from top to bottom, we can’t subscribe to the consensus that Manning is the better quarterback prospect. In short, Manning might be the safer pick, but Roethlisberger is the better one"

Manning was considered a sure thing and he has done a good job of leading the Giants. He is one of few that were considered worth it and the Giants traded up to make sure they got him. Whether they would have been better off with Rivers and the picks is a different discussion.

Next: Carson Palmer