2016 NFL Draft: Ranking the Top Ten Quarterbacks

7. Gunner Kiel, Cincinnati

Sep 5, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats quarterback Gunner Kiel (11) reacts to throwing a touchdown in the first half against the Alabama A&M Bulldogs at Nippert Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Once the top recruit in all of college football, Gunner Kiel bounced around a bit before eventually landing softly at the University of Cincinnati. Kiel was impressive in his first season at Cincinnati, and clearly has the tools to be a legitimate NFL quarterback.

Like a lot of the guys on this list, Kiel has the size (6-foot-4, 208 pounds) and raw arm strength to make a strong impression on a lot of scouts. Also like a lot of young quarterbacks, he needs work in the accuracy and field awareness departments.

That being said, Kiel definitely shows the signs of figuring it all out. His accuracy is good most of the time, he just has some random lapses. He needs to improve his ability to move defenses with his eyes, but his recognition skills seem to be ahead of pace. Kiel’s issues can be quickly cleaned up by proper NFL coaching.

Kiel is a bit of a streaky player, his lows can be rough, but his highs are great. He is going to have to get more consistent at the next level, but I have faith in his ability to do so.

When it comes down to it, Kiel looks like a strong NFL draft prospect. He has good physical tools and a solid head on his shoulders. His upside may not be as high as a lot of these guys, but he is a solid bet to make an impact in the NFL at some point in his career. That is not something that can be said for many prospects.

Next: Number Six