New York Jets 2018 NFL Draft Targets: Ranking the top 4 quarterbacks

3. Josh Allen, Wyoming

If pure arm strength was the lone determining factor for being the premier quarterback prospect, then the Firebaugh, CA native would win hands down. (Did you notice that the top three prospects so far are all natives of California?) Anyway, Allen has an absolute cannon. It reminds me of Jay Cutler’s powerful right arm. However, much like Cutler, Allen has issues with accuracy that must be improved as he makes the transition to the professional level.

The 6-5, 233-pounder completed only 56.3 percent of his pass attempts last season for the Cowboys while tossing 16 touchdowns passes and six interceptions. Allen struggled against some of the better foes on his schedule (Oregon, 9-of-24, 64 yards, one interception; and Iowa, 23-of-40, 174 yards, two picks). The offensive talent surrounding Allen was not exactly stellar but he wound up the campaign with just 1,812 yards through the air.

With that being said, Allen probably has the highest upside of any signal-caller in this year’s class. He can make any throw and is especially adept at the sluggo or post route toss. He throws very well on the run and can make plays with his quick feet — he gained 767 yards on the ground and scored a dozen touchdowns in his three seasons in Laramie.

Allen has had some experience taking snaps under center, but he’ll need some time to develop. He has to improve his touch on the ball. There are times when he forces the issue and tries to make a dangerous throw when a check-down toss would do. Allen does have experience playing in bad weather so playing at East Rutherford should not faze him one bit. It will be exciting if general manager Mike Maccagnan drafts him due to his high ceiling.