Mel Kiper Jr. discussed the NFL Draft prospects of Kentucky quarterback Will Levis during ESPN’s “First Draft” podcast on Thursday.
Many are pointing to Levis as a high 1st round pick, with CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso projecting him to go No. 1 overall. That’s despite a departure in 2022 from the form that made him such an intriguing option.
That shouldn’t discourage teams, Kiper stated.
“Physically, you can draw up an NFL quarterback, he’s that guy. The size, the stature, the arm, the way he spins it to make every throw, the toughness, the ability to beat you with his legs. He is a running dual-threat quarterback,” he said.
As far as Levis’ struggles, Kiper pointed to the Wildcats’ loss of talent at offensive line, pointing to Luke Fortner and Darian Kinnard as key figures that Levis benefitted from in 2021 that he didn’t have in 2022. Injuries also took their toll on him, part of the reason why he opted out of the Wildcats’ bowl game, but he still participated in meetings and was essentially “another coach”.
“How he got on the field, I don’t know. How he finished the year, I don’t know…This guy is passionate about the game, loves the game,” Kiper said.
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What is Kipers record on QB's the last ten years?
Spoiler alert!!! Not good.
So, what are the chances that a team with a high draft pick has an O-line room any better (relatively) than KY’s?
Zero, and it's gonna break my heart to see Will Levis get Tim Couched
Actually just a year ago with the same personnel the Colts had a top 3 OL. A couple injuries and down year this last season. But they are very good.
Mel Kiper is a caricature.
Kiper was also a huge fan of Sam Darnold.
The real reason— a scout told him.
Lol Mel hated Brock Purdy. He hated Jalen Hurts. He loved Tua. He hated Daniel Jones. See a pattern yet?... Ole Kipe couldn't spot an NFL QB with the Hubble Telescope.
And I didn't even mention how much he gushed over Zach Wilson as the next great QB
Brock Purdy looks good because he is on the most QB friendly team in the NFL.. which also happens to have one of the best rosters in the NFL. They are built on run game and blocking schemes. Brock may be solid, but he plays in system where below average QBs can shine, i.e. Jimmy G going to a Super Bowl. You put Brock on 25+ other teams and he is no better than a back up