Following his senior season at NC State, quarterback Jacoby Brissett is preparing for the 2016 NFL Draft. While there are many talented quarterbacks in this year’s draft, more than a few teams in the league have a need for the position.
With the draft coming up later this month and Brissett projected to be picked anywhere from the third round to the fifth round, it’s time to take a look at the teams that have shown interest in Brissett, as well as some teams that could use his skills.
Dallas Cowboys
For the Cowboys, a recovering Tony Romo is certain to return as the starter next season after sitting out the majority of the 2015 season with a pair of collarbone injuries. That being said, it is no secret that he is running out of time. A solid backup is needed in case of injury but is also needed to take over for the 35-year-old Romo within the next few years.
The Cowboys have shown more interest in Brissett than any other team in the league. The team interacted with him during the Senior Bowl in January and recently held a private workout with him. The pro-style quarterback Brissett could potentially be the future of this team if he develops and adjusts well to the scheme.
New York Jets
The Jets seem to be struggling to decide whom they would like to play the quarterback position next season. With previous starter Geno Smith being an afterthought and the team, so far, failing to reach a deal with last year’s starter Ryan Fitzpatrick, it is presumed that it will take to the draft to meet their quarterback need. The Jets also interacted with Brissett during the Senior Bowl. His strong arm and mobility should make him desirable to the team.
Chicago Bears
Jay Cutler is undoubtedly going to be the starter going into next season, but the Bears need a reliable backup quarterback. While Cutler is critiqued heavily, he is often praised for his arm strength. Similarly, Brissett has been recognized recently for his arm strength, deep ball accuracy and ability to make the throws outside the numbers. The Bears interacted with Brissett during the combine, so perhaps he could be the backup they are looking for.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles recently showed that they have a lot of faith in their quarterback Sam Bradford by giving him a two-year, $35 million deal. Still, the team needs to prepare as if this decision turns out to be the wrong one.
Some think that despite the Bradford deal, the Eagles will still search for a quarterback later in the draft. Brissett has shown many flashes of mobility during his time at NC State, and while he lacks top-end speed, he has the football IQ to make up for it. With a new coach coming in, it’s currently unknown if the Eagles will retain the fast-paced offense set by former coach Chip Kelly; but if it does, Brissett will be a good fit.
Buffalo Bills
The Bills do not have EJ Manuel or Tyrod Taylor under contract for the 2017 season. These two are the only quarterbacks on the team’s roster, so logically the team will explore the draft to add another option. It is unlikely that it would be willing to use an early pick for a quarterback, and since Brissett is predicted to go between the third to fifth rounds, he is a perfect option. Brissett is similar to Manuel and Taylor in play-making ability, and he has the potential to be a better pocket passer than both.
Seattle Seahawks
Obviously, Russell Wilson is the man and will continue to be for years to come, but he could use a backup to wait in the wings. Who better than another NC State quarterback? But seriously, the Seahawks could use a mobile backup just in case anything happens to Wilson. They would use a later round pick for this, and that is great for Brissett. Imagine Brissett getting a chance to be a starting quarterback down the road after training behind NC State-great Russell Wilson for a while.
