New York Jets 2018 NFL Draft Targets: Ranking the top 4 quarterbacks
4. Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma
The 2017 Heisman Trophy winner was one of the most exciting players in recent college football history but there are some major concerns. Mayfield is barely 6-1, so he is at least three inches shorter than the other prospects. That means he’ll have to move to find clear throwing lanes. A plethora of pass attempts could be batted down at the line of scrimmage as well.
Mayfield commanded the Oklahoma spread offense beautifully but he has almost no experience snapping the ball from under center. He’ll have to perform that task on the pro level and that will be a huge adjustment for him on the pro level.
The Austin, TX native has also had maturity issues. He was arrested for public intoxication, disorderly conduct and feeling and resisting arrest in 2017. Mayfield is known for being cocky – can he handle the bright lights of New York City? Can Maccagnan trust him to stay out of trouble?
On the flip side, you won’t find a more fiery competitor or leader on the gridiron in the entire draft. Mayfield is also very accurate — he completed 70.5 percent of his passes for the Sooners last year, including 43 touchdown tosses. He threw just six interceptions and also rushed for 311 yards and five touchdowns.
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Mayfield has excellent scrambling ability and he can extend plays with his quick feet. He possesses above-average arm strength and throws quite well on the run. He reminds me a little of Russell Wilson but he’ll certainly have to prove his worth in the NFL. Mayfield is one of the most dynamic prospects in the entire draft. The Jets brass has to decide if his character flaws and lack of premium height make him worth the risk with the third overall selection.