Sep 28, 2013; Corvallis, OR, USA; Oregon State Beavers quarterback Sean Mannion (4) looks at the defense before the snap against the Colorado Buffaloes at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Sean Mannion, QB, Oregon State
Combine stats:
40 YD: 5.14
20 YD: 3.03
10 YD: 1.87
Vertical Jump: 31
Broad: 8’9″
Shuttle: 4.39
3-Cone Drill: 7.29
Nobody knows what’s happening at the quarterback position in Buffalo right now. 2013 first-round pick E.J. Manuel is still on the roster but inconsistent play throughout his first two seasons has his future in limbo. Veteran Matt Cassel was acquired via trade with the Minnesota Vikings this offseason and Tyrod Taylor was signed as well. All three quarterbacks are expected to compete for the starting spot.
Mannion is personally my favorite quarterback in this draft class. Had he declared after his record-breaking Junior season with the Beavers that saw him throw for 4,662 yards and 37 touchdowns, he could’ve been a top-15 pick last season. Production declined his Senior season after the whole offense fell in terms of talent and production.
At 6’6″, Mannion has the size and arm strength that NFL teams covet. The knock on him is his mobility – or lack thereof – and he tends to lose stability when pressured in the pocket. Who does that remind me of? How about a young Peyton Manning?
No, I’m not saying he’s the next Peyton Manning, just that they have similar traits all across the board. Whaley stated he could go quarterback on day two so don’t be surprised to see him snag Mannion to play in Ryan’s run-heavy, pro-style offense.
Next: #4