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Originally Posted by Shep  I actually agree with most of that, Dan. Or mostly agree. Or something.
Young is a smooth and instinctive athlete and a much better passer than I figured him for. I also doubt he's as dumb as he tests (the famous 6) or talks (he just sounds like a moron)... but I doubt he's real bright. And that's certainly held him back at the NFL. Slowed his progress.
Again... there's a reason GMs do look at Wonderlic scores and personal interviews and chalkboard work with QBs. It's a position that requires a ton of book learning, a quick mind on the field, and the ability to communicate with and lead teammates.
You can't always get everything you want, and that's kind of the case with Young. You get some amazing athletic ability and a guy who probably plays smarter than he is because he has "it." But you don't get a guy who devours playbooks and teaches those around him, or can articulate himself well to his teammates.
I happen to value that a ton because I see quarterbacks as something more than position players. But Young is winning me over on a lot of other counts. |
Do you know what VY has that gets overlooked and underrated constantly? VISION. Sometimes seeing the field better and quicker than others just makes that split second decision so much easier. Because of this he's never had to strain his brain. Have you ever seen a video game junkie with a joystick? IMO, that's VY on a football field. The LESS time he has to think the better. That can be said about alot of QBs.
FWIW, when I watch QBs like Kyle Boller or Brady Quinn struggle on the field - it looks like they have great difficulty seeing everything. It's not that they can't see per say, it's that they can't see things at the speed of the NFL. They HAVE the smarts and physical tools that made them first round prospects; but NOTHING evaluated vision at the speed of the game. Until we see such an assessment - there's gonna continue to be disappointing 1st round QBs like Alex Smith, Jamarcus Russell, Akili Smith, Ryan Leaf, etc. Of the guys I just mentioned, HOW MANY of them did we hear had impressive workouts? WTF are these workouts measuring that applies to an NFL play? Any corners with closing speed? Any pass rusher's with hands up chasing them or altering throws, mechanics or poise? Any routes adjusting DURING the play? Any wind, rain or mud? No. In fact, it's a scripted/controlled workout often done with hopes of hiding weaknesses. So big deal if another Alex Smith comes along to the praises of "best ever." We almost hear that every year. How much did Bradford's outing vrs us resemble his impressive workout?
- Tom F.