2017 NFL Draft: A complete look at quarterbacks for the Chiefs

Mitchell Trubisky, North Carolina, RS Junior (6-2, 222 pounds)

If ever a quarterback came out of nowhere to burst upon the national scene, Trubisky may be the greatest example. A backup for two seasons after red shirting, Mitchell, don’t call me Mitch, Trubisky erupted on the scene as the signal caller in Chapel Hill for the Tar Heels. While Mitchell had a good season as the starter for North Carolina in the ACC, why did he only start one year? It’s a big question that will have to be asked and answered in the draft process.

Strengths:

• Good arm strength
• Good natural accuracy
• Strong mechanics
• Solid athlete
• Good movement in and out of pocket
• Good runner

Weaknesses:

• Experience, only started one year at North Carolina before declaring for the draft
• Pocket feel/presence -Doesn’t always appear to feel pressure
• Good at many/not great at anything

Declaring for the draft after one season, Trubisky is, at least in my opinion, likely to be the first quarterback drafted on draft night. Based in part that of all the top quarterbacks, Trubisky appears to be the safest player. While, at this point in his development, he isn’t great any perhaps any one aspect of the position, he’s above average to good at all of them. Good arm, acceptable height, good athleticism and ability to make plays on the ground. Accurate with a quick release and good mechanics, Trubisky appears at first glance to have to best chance of contributing as a rookie, which leads us to his primary concern.

Why did Mitchell Trubisky only start for his junior season if he’s as good as he appeared to be on the field in 2016? The previous two seasons, North Carolina started Marquise Williams, a knock off version of Cardale Jones. While Williams had good games and moments at UNC, he certainly is not the pro prospect Trubisky is. Trubisky had a good 2016 season, throwing for 3748 yards and 30 touchdowns.

The other concern with Trubisky, and this ties into the playing time, is his feel in the pocket. While he does have good athleticism and the ability to move around both in and out of the pocket, there are times where he appears to lack ‘feel’ for his surroundings, which can be developed or learned through playing time and experience.

Why Trubisky is a fit for the Chiefs

Perhaps the most ideal prospect in this draft to take over for Smith in 2018 in this offense. As mentioned above, he can move and run, as well as throw on the run. With a strong and accurate arm, Trubisky is a very solid fit for the Chiefs. In this offense specifically, Trubisky is a great fit, and would allow the Chiefs to open the offense to a degree down field.

The big concern for Mitchell Trubisky is game experience and playing time. More then any other prospect, he needs to play and develop while on the field. The Chiefs don’t have that available as Smith is the entrenched starter for the 2017 season. The question is how much experience and growth he’ll enjoy spending a season on the bench before starting in 2018.

Interesting factoid: Grew up and went to high school in Mentor, Ohio, which is a suburb of Cleveland.

Will the Chiefs draft him at No. 27? Yes

Will he be available at No. 27? Not likely

My NFL comp: Tony Romo, Cowboys