Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
The NFL Draft presents a difficult challenge for general managers and other talent evaluators, and ending up with someone that does not turn out well could basically destroy an organization for years.
Former West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith is one such player has faced some uncertainty regarding what his potential holds.
The New York Jets desperately need to identify their franchise quarterback. Mark Sanchez clearly has lost any remaining faith from his organization and Tim Tebow will soon be gone. Greg McElroy basically is a project, while David Garrard struggles to stay healthy.
Smith had astounding numbers in college, especially with a senior year where he put up 42 touchdowns and only six interceptions. During his three years as a starter, he never had more than seven interceptions in a single season.
Statistics would suggest that he is a lock to dominate as a pro. Unfortunately, these numbers do not tell the entire story.
Offenses in college football can sometimes feature a wide-open attack such as the type of scheme operated by former Oregon and now Philadelphia Eagles head coach Chip Kelley. Some NFL teams are moving to this quicker-paced offense, but there are a number of coaches that want to stay with a more conventional approach.
Smith’s lowest completion percentage was never lower than 64.8, but footwork problems make him a difficult fit in the West Coast offense. There needs to be a rookie signal caller added for the Jets, and someone like Ryan Nassib would be more conducive to this scheme.
