New York Jets select Bryce Petty in fourth round of the 2015 NFL draft
When analysts talk about Baylor's Bryce Petty, they usually start with his arm strength, and for good reason—there may not be another quarterback in this draft class who can throw downfield with more ease. And he's certainly been prolific—Robert Griffin's replacement in the Bears' program totaled 530 completions in 845 attempts for 8,195 yards, 62 touchdowns and 10 interceptions throughout his collegiate career. There are some who firmly believe that, based on his tape, Petty is the third-best quarterback in this group, behind only Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota.
If that's the case, why did Petty last until the 103rd pick? Put simply, accuracy. Petty has a 62.7 career completion rate, but that was fattened up by a lot of behind-the-line screens and easy-open routes. Far too often, when he throws deep, he also throws wild—and he'll miss those wide-open targets by yards at times. Petty is a great pick in the fourth round, though, because he's a player with a lot of raw talent who also needs development. Ostensibly, that's what he'll get in the Jets' organization.
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Strengths: Tough, competitive team leader. Good frame. Throws in rhythm with quick release. Has arm strength to make throws to all parts of the field and can squeeze balls into tight windows, which he was rarely asked to do in Baylor's offense. Not fast, but effective as a runner, especially in the red zone. Displays touch on deep ball, knowing when to take something off it. Impressed teams with throwing skills at combine and pro day workout.
Weaknesses: Played in spread offense. Struggled if first read wasn't available. Accuracy fell off with defenders at his feet. Can extend plays but prone to mistakes when moving outside the pocket. Fails to set lower body when hurried and throws just with arm. Fails to let play develop if feeling rushed ... leading to overthrown balls on open deep routes.
Player Comparison: Derek Carr
