NFL Off-Season: Top QB Competitions

Jun 17, 2014; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Jake Locker (10) during mini camp at Saint Thomas Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Tennessee Titans
Jake Locker vs. Zach Mettenberger

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Prediction:
After Ryan Fitzpatrick went out and signed with the Houston Texans in the off-season, Tennessee was left with the only option they had; former first round draft pick Jake Locker. This season I see the Titans having some slight challenges. They lost Kenny Britt and failed to draft any wide receivers. As well they let go of franchise RB Chris Johnson. Regardless though, this team does happen to have a lot of bright spots ranging from veteran Nate Washington to young bloods such as rookie sensations Kendall Wright out of Baylor and home-grown Justin Hunter from the University of Tennessee. As for the QBs, at this moment the battle is between Jake Locker and rookie Zach Mettenberger out of LSU. As last season’s starter for six games, Locker was able to play well, winning four out of the six games he did in fact start. Unfortunately for Locker, his career to this point has been riddled with injuries and benchings. 2014 will feature a healthy Locker and a Tennessee squad which no longer has QB Ryan Fitzpatrick in it. I think the starting job and the 2014 is basically Locker’s to win or lose. He’s  waited three years for this moment and must take advantage of every opportunity. However, in his way will be the rookie Mettenberger.

Out of LSU, Mettenberger averaged 2,845.5 yards and 17 touchdowns and completed 61.85% of his passes in his last two seasons as a Tiger. Many draft analysts praised Mettenberger for his size and arm strength, however they were less likely to give him praise on his release time and history of injuries and off-the-field issues. According to his NFL.com profile, Mettenberger has “exceptional size. Outstanding arm strength — spins it with velocity and can make all the throws. Can drill the deep out and fit it into a tight window across the field throwing to his left. Ran an NFL-style offense under coordinator Cam Cameron and learned how to become more of a leader as a senior.” At the same time though, Mettenberger’s weaknesses include being “heavy-footed with a long delivery, which translates to the pocket closing on him quickly when he moves and is forced off a spot. Takes unnecessary sacks and is rattled easily under duress. Really labors to hasten his release and get rid of the ball quickly when needed. Has tunnel vision and arms the ball too much. Tends to trigger late and frequently underthrows the deep ball. Does not throw receivers open and forces them to adjust. Can learn to take pace off the ball and throw with more touch, better timing and anticipation. Had a very strong supporting cast with NFL-caliber receivers and a stout offensive line. Weight fluctuated early in his career and arrived at LSU pushing 260 pounds. Is coming off an ACL injury and will require some rehabilitation time. Character will require closer scrutiny.”

I think that 2014 will have Locker as the starter all the way through. I honestly don’t see Mettenberger as the starting QB of the Tennessee Titans in any capacity. If anyone is going to get playing time after Locker it will probably be Charlie Whitehurst. Mettenberger’s throwing motion needs to be worked on a little bit in order to be truly NFL-ready. I think this season watches him from the bench, taking notes and learning the system. Locker was the Titan’s first round selection and I believe that the Titans will honor that selection and play Locker throughout the season. In his career he has yet to play all 16 games. Look for 2014 to be that season. If Locker does get injured, the Titans will have to make a judgement call to see if Mettenberger is ready for the big time.