6 Reasons Why QB Garrett Grayson Should Be Picked Early In The NFL Draft
FORT COLLINS, Colo. (CBS4) - It's expected that Oregon's Marcus Mariota and Florida State's Jameis Winston will be the first two quarterbacks taken in this year's NFL Draft, but a Colorado quarterback might be right behind them.
Garrett Grayson had a fantastic college career with the CSU Rams, and some analysts have him high up in their mock drafts.
Mel Kiper has praised Grayson's potential, saying he "maybe has a chance to be worthy" of being a first rounder when the draft takes place in two weeks. And Jon Gruden called him "a dark horse in this class."
Here are six reasons why NFL teams need to give Grayson a good, hard look:
1. He's got the size, skill
At 6-foot-2 and 214 pounds, Grayson is compact. His arm length is 30 inches. He's accurate, has a good touch and wouldn't need to change much with the mechanics of his throw.
2. He's a fiery competitor
During his pro day workout, Grayson said he's aware he's being considered as possibly the third quarterback to get drafted, but really he feels like he's fighting to be the No. 1. The Loveland Reporter-Herald quoted him as saying "I remember my parents telling me when I was real young, there is always somebody working harder than you, no matter what you're doing. That's always been in the back of my mind to work as hard as I possibly can, no matter what I'm doing."
3. He's played in a pro-style system
Former Rams head coach Jim McElwain inserted Grayson into his system and he flourished. Grayson wasn't like many college QBs who specialize at running the option. At CSU he showed he can shine from the pocket and can be successful throwing from the shotgun.
4. He's smart
Grayson was given the option to read defenses and call audibles for the Rams, and he evolved as a starter, throwing fewer and fewer interceptions.
5. He's got a nose for the endzone
Grayson threw 64 touchdowns during his time as quarterback for the Rams, including 32 in his senior year. His instinct for finding the open man in the red zone is top notch.
6. He's got charisma and leadership skills
As the starter for the Rams in his junior and senior year, Grayson confidently led the Rams to two bowl games. And as for charisma? Just watch the YouTube video below, where he talks humbly about not being able to participate in the NFL Combine due to a hamstring injury:
The 2015 NFL Draft takes place on April 30, May 1 and May 2.