Highest Upside | Jacob Eason | QB | 4.122
From what the Colts are saying after the draft, the quarterback position really wasn’t high on their priority list. After the four quarterbacks went on Day 1, it seems they didn’t have any of the prospects on their board for the second day of the draft. But when Day 3 hit, Eason was the highest player on their board at No. 122.
[lawrence-related id=43458]
Though Chris Ballard has tried to slow the hype train down, the upside that Eason has is strong. Blessed with elite size and the top arm talent in the draft class, Eason can turn into a steal if he develops. Sitting behind Philip Rivers and learning from Frank Reich will be vital to developing his game and if he can reach that potential, the sky is the limit.
“I saw a guy who has all the physical tools to play the position – size, strength, really good arm talent, can make all the throws to all spots on the field,” said Frank Reich after the draft. “For a big man, I think he has some athleticism to him – not that he is a scrambler guy. I think he is a pocket passer but has the athletic ability to move and just think he is still young and developing in the position.”
There are a lot of knocks on Eason. He needs to develop his instincts and footwork while also understanding the nuances of handling pressure and going through progressions. Those are likely the biggest areas he must work on before he will see the playing field.
There aren’t many situations that suited Eason quite like this one. It will be demanding in the room with Reich and Rivers, which gives him immense upside.