Scouting report
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Strengths: Griffin is an exceptional athlete who possesses improving instincts as a passer. He has an effortless release and launches the deep ball with accuracy and touch as well as any quarterback in the country. He's improved his presence and feel for the rush in the pocket. He uses his quick feet and superior athleticism to escape pressure and make something out of nothing. He's most dangerous out of the pocket and keeps defenses off balance with his unique running skills. On the perimeter, he has an uncanny ability to observe the opposition and deliver an accurate, timely pass to his receivers. He's electric in space and embraces the physical aspects of the game. He's an outstanding leader, possesses a charismatic personality and is a highly intelligent individual.
Weaknesses: While Griffin's ability and numbers are off the charts, his mechanics and freelance style of play will cause him problems at the next level. He features an unorthodox delivery (three-quarters), and has problems making consistent reads from the pocket, which is why he prefers to be on the move where his throwing flaws are masked. He must improve his footwork and patience in the pocket. He’s a reactionary signal caller and although he’s improved his awareness in the pocket, there are instances where he reverts back to what he does best and will look to run before making the correct read in the passing game. He must learn to slide properly when approaching traffic in the open field. He doesn’t possess the size that can withstand the constant punishment he will endure in the NFL; it will create durability concerns. He suffered a torn ACL to his right knee during the 2009 season.
Steuber Says: An impressive athlete and improved passer, Robert Griffin III brings a similar freelance style to the NFL that many will immediately compare to Michael Vick. The similarities between the two on the field are evident, but where Griffin distances himself from Vick as a prospect is with his attitude and work ethic.
Griffin is lauded by his coaches and teammates for his leadership qualities, and the work he puts in the film room and during practice is something that was missing from Vick’s game plan early on. It’s that kind of maturity that will help his transition to the next level, however the success that Cam Newton had as a rookie could set Griffin up for disaster.
Newton and Griffin are different players in many ways and for there to be a comparison between the two is misguided. Newton is a physically imposing quarterback, who can get away with his style of play due to his size, and his willingness to stand tall in the pocket and go through is progressions. Griffin, who is much smaller physically, is a bit skittish in the pocket and would rather use his athleticism to make plays rather than rely on his ability to observe a defense.
In the right system and with the right offensive coaching staff, Griffin can develop into a quality starting quarterback, but to expect him to start right away and be a difference maker is asking a lot from a player who is far from being a finished product.Prospect Comparison: Andre Ware.
Round Projection: 1st Round (Top 10).
Chris Steuber
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Chris Steuber has covered the NFL and NFL Draft for multiple media outlets over the last decade, and has appeared on numerous radio and television programs, including: The Colin Cowherd Show, NFL Network's Path to the Draft and Daily News Live on Comcast SportsNet (Philadelphia)... full biography
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