Locked on the Chiefs: Quarterbacks in NFL Draft under new scrutiny

The Kansas City Chiefs have a gaping hole at their backup quarterback spot. Following velocity testing at the combine, this draft class of quarterbacks it’s getting some extra scrutiny.

Quarterbacks are measured at the combine for throwing velocity in miles per hour. Some believe there are thresholds that indicate a player’s success rate in the NFL.

Two of the top four quarterback prospects in the 2017 draft class have been singled out for their performances in the velocity test.

Clemson’s Deshaun Watson is considered by many to be the top quarterback prospect in this class. When his throwing velocity came back at 49mph, it has caused some to show concern about his longevity in the NFL.

On the other hand, Texas Tech’s Patrick Mahomes has been lauded for his velocity at the combine. Although he was previously known to have a strong arm, his 60mph throwing performance ties a combine record.

Velocity is turning into a controversial topic in analyzing this draft class. It is important to remember that this is one data point, one aspect of a player’s game, that should be factored into an evaluation. It is not the end-all, be-all of a prospect’s abilities.

"Like what you hear from the Locked on Chiefs podcast? Get it direct. Subscribe on iTunes or on AudioBoom"

Locked on Chiefs is a daily podcast show that drills down to the bottom line and will give you a 360-degree view of the Kansas City Chiefs. Take a few minutes to hear about your Chiefs each day. We’ll cover the offseason, the draft and all the way to the Super Bowl and want to cover the topics you want to hear about. So reach out to us on twitter @LockedOnChiefs with questions and for up to the minute analysis and episode information.

Thanks, Addicts!