NFL Draft: Tyler Wilson Scouting Report
Tyler Wilson had big shoes to fill taking over for Arkansas‘ career passing leader Ryan Mallett. Wilson didn’t disappoint. He threw for 3,638 yard with 24 touchdowns to only 6 interceptions and lead the Razorbacks to an 11-2 record and a Cotton Bowl victory over Kansas St. During the summer at the Manning Passing Academy, Peyton Manning took notice of the gunslinger, “There”s nothing like being a Senior, it gives you a little kind of swagger, I think, and I think he’ll have a really good year. I certainly see the talent in him. I certainly see him being a big NFL prospect as well.” Wilson flirted with entering the draft last year after his junior season, but chose to return and finish school, and increase his draft stock.
Height: 6′ 3″
Weight: 220
Grade: Solid 1st round pick
Pros:
- Arm strength; Doesn’t have the cannon that Mallett had, but can make all the necessary throws for the next level. Puts great zip on the ball and won’t be scheme limited in the NFL
- Love his accuracy and the touch he puts on balls. Can hit all three levels of the field with ease, and because of his arm strength, can fit it into tight windows
- Plays taller than he really is. Stands tall and climbs the picket to deliver a good ball
- Underrated scrambling ability. Not asked to run much, but will escape the pocket if necessary
- Poised in the pocket; Doesn’t panic and goes through his progressions properly
- Does a good job reading defenses pre-snap. Has the wherewithal to check into a run play when its needed
- Shows toughness; Isn’t afraid to take a hit
- Excellent intangibles; Looks the part being a leader
Cons:
- Mechanics need fine tuning; Tends to throw of his back foot too often. Will get inconsistent with his delivery at times
- Needs to step up in the big games. Did not perform well against loses at Alabama and LSU
- Had some lazy throw throughout the season; Throwing into double-teams,or under throwing easy targets
- Product of the system? Benefited by having 3 NFL WR’s on his roster last season
- Accuracy on the move needs to improve
- Tends to hang on to the ball to long at times
Final Thoughts:
This time last season, Wilson was virtually unknown to casual football fans. But, come April, I think that Wilson could be the first or second QB selected if continues to develop like he should. He has a higher ceiling and potential than Matt Barkley and has the look of a franchise QB. With his ability to throw the ball deep and put place the ball accurately in any part of the field, he reminds me of a young Phillip Rivers.
There is room for him to develop in terms of accuracy outside the pocket, and ability to perform on the big stage, not to mention Wilson will be facing adversity this season. After the departure of three NFL receivers (Joe Adams, Jarius Wright, and Greg Childs) and his head coach, this season could take a turn for the worst and effect his draft stock immensely. This season will be huge in answering if he was just a product of Bobby Petrino’s system, or if in fact he’s a legit top QB prospect in this draft
