The Baltimore Ravens aren’t in the market for a starting quarterback after picking Lamar Jackson in the first round of the 2018 draft. But they are in need of a capable backup and could turn to next month’s draft to find one for cheap.
The Ravens had a duo of quality “backups” in Joe Flacco and Robert Griffin III last season. Flacco is set to be traded to the Denver Broncos, while Griffin III is a pending unrestricted free agent. If Baltimore decides to have their next backup come via the draft, here are six prospects they should keep their eye on at the NFL scouting combine on Saturday.
Trace McSorley, Penn State:
McSorley is a fiery competitor who is extremely talented as a downfield thrower. After the departure of running back Saquon Barkley, McSorley had a down year in 2018, only completing 53 percent of his passes.
The knock on McSorley is that he is considered undersized at 6 feet tall. If he can show that his accuracy is a strong suit in his game by performing well in the three-, five-, and seven-step drop drills, he could improve his draft position drastically.
Easton Stick, North Dakota State:
Stick comes from the same alma mater as Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz, but he will have to do a lot more than Wentz to get drafted by an NFL team. Stick is known for his mobility, having rushed for 11 touchdowns in 2018. If Stick can improve his accuracy, he can shoot up NFL draft boards.
Gardner Minshew, Washington State:
Minshew showed extreme accuracy during his only season with Washington State. After transferring for his junior year, Minshew finished the 2018 season with a 71 percent completion rate as well as 38 passing touchdowns.
A strong 40-yard dash performance would go well with his high accuracy trait. NFL teams love quarterbacks who can get the ball where it needs to go as well as run for a first down when needed, and Minshew could be that guy if he shows he is also mobile.
Tyree Jackson, Buffalo
Jackson is an extremely talented quarterback who has immense physical gifts. He stands at a monstrous 6-7, which can set a quarterback apart from the rest when it comes to the draft process.
Much like McSorley, Jackson had a down year with his accuracy. In 2017 he completed 60.3 percent of his passes, but in 2018 he only completed 55 percent. Like McSorley, if he can have a strong showing at the three-, five- and seven-step drop drills to ease concerns about his accuracy, he’ll do a lot for his draft stock.
It’ll be interesting to see how Jackson does in all his drills. The Ravens could be interested in Jackson since he can move around outside the pocket well and has a cannon for an arm.
