Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Brandon Weeden (Oklahoma St.) - 2012 NFL Draft Pick #22 by CLE

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Brandon Weeden - 2012 NFL Draft

Overview:

Brandon Weeden, the 28-year-old quarterback from Oklahoma State University, emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2012 NFL Draft. Known for his strong arm and impressive production in college, Weeden was a mature player who had spent time playing professional baseball before returning to football.

College Performance:

• Completion Percentage: Weeden showcased impressive accuracy, completing 72.3% of his passes during his senior season.
• Passing Yards: He threw for over 4,700 yards, ranking among the top quarterbacks in the nation.
• Touchdowns: Weeden recorded 37 touchdown passes in his final college season, demonstrating his ability to make big plays.
• Leadership: His experience and maturity were evident as he led the Cowboys to a Big 12 Championship.

Strengths:

• Arm Strength: Weeden possessed a powerful arm, capable of making all the necessary throws at the NFL level.
• Football IQ: His understanding of the game and ability to read defenses were significant assets.
• Experience: Having played in a high-octane offense, he was well-prepared for the transition to the NFL.
• Mechanics: Weeden displayed solid throwing mechanics, contributing to his accuracy and velocity.

Weaknesses:

• Age: At 28, Weeden was older than most quarterback prospects, raising concerns about his long-term potential.
• Mobility: He lacked the athleticism and mobility of some younger quarterbacks, which could limit his ability to escape pressure.
• Experience Against NFL Defenses: Transitioning from college to the NFL would require adjustments to face more complex defenses.

Projected Draft Position:

Weeden was widely projected to be a first- to second-round pick based on his performance, skills, and the demand for quarterbacks in the draft. Teams seeking a quarterback with immediate potential were particularly interested in his skill set.