Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Christian Ponder (Florida St.) - 2011 NFL Draft Pick #12 by MIN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Christian Ponder - 2011 NFL Draft

Player Overview:
Christian Ponder is a quarterback from Florida State University who showcased a combination of intelligence, leadership, and athleticism during his college career. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions positioned him as one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2011 NFL Draft. Strengths:

• Intelligence: Ponder demonstrated a strong understanding of the game, showing the ability to analyze defenses and make effective adjustments.
• Accuracy: He exhibited good accuracy on short and intermediate throws, making him a reliable option in the passing game.
• Mobility: Ponder had decent mobility for a quarterback, allowing him to extend plays and evade pressure.
• Leadership: As a team captain at Florida State, he was respected by teammates and coaches, showcasing his leadership qualities.
• Work Ethic: Ponder was known for his dedication to improving his skills and studying the game, which bodes well for his development at the professional level.

Weaknesses:

• Injury History: Ponder's collegiate career was marred by injuries, raising concerns about his durability in the NFL.
• Deep Ball: His deep passing ability was inconsistent, which could limit his effectiveness in stretching the field.
• Mechanics: At times, Ponder's throwing mechanics were unrefined, leading to inaccuracies in his passes.

Overall Assessment:
Christian Ponder was regarded as a mid to late first-round prospect in the 2011 NFL Draft. His combination of skills and leadership made him an intriguing option for teams in need of a quarterback. However, concerns about his injury history and deep ball accuracy led some scouts to question his long-term viability as a starting quarterback in the NFL. Projected Draft Position:
Many analysts expected Ponder to be selected in the first round, potentially as one of the top quarterbacks off the board, depending on team needs and preferences.