WVU: QB Geno Smith

This year's NFL draft is going to be exciting to watch. For the first time in school history, a WVU player is in contention to be the first overall pick.  During WVU's pro day in Morgantown, 28 NFL teams were represented and QB Geno Smith and WR Tavon Austin were the star attractions.

NFL scouts typically like to evaluate a QB's "down-the-field" passes (25 yards or longer).  They like to see accurate high velocity throws and accurate touch throws while in the pocket and while on rollouts.  Following Geno's solid performance at the scouting combine, he completed 60-of-64 passes with two drops by Stedman Bailey and demonstrated all of the above at WVU's pro day.  If he continues to impress, Geno could go number one in this year's NFL draft.

My evaluation: In my opinion, after re-watching games and highlights, Geno greatest weaknesses are progressing through his reads and his footwork could be a little better.  He seems to be slow at it, and his passes are often late because of it.  Geno will need to speed up his anticipation if he wants to be successful in the NFL.  On average, an NFL QB has three seconds to drop back, go through his reads, and pass the ball before defenders are in his face.  The good news is that Geno's weaknesses are coach-able, and he possesses the God given talents that can't be coached.  I think that is why NFL teams are looking at drafting him early.

To give a little comparison, if Geno was in last year's QB rich draft, I don't think he gets drafted until the second or third round.  So my question is, does this year's draft include a lack of options at the QB position?

Teams showing interest and their first round pick: Chiefs (1), Jaguars (2), Raiders (3), Eagles (4), Browns (6), Cardinals (7), and Bills (8).

I look for Geno to be drafted by the Raiders (3) or the Eagles (4).  The Bills (8) are a close third if he is still available and assuming they don't trade up to snag him.

Then again, I could be WAY off....

Sh