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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Blake Bortles (Central Florida) - 2014 NFL Draft Pick #3 by JAX

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis: Blake Bortles (2014 NFL Draft)

College: University of Central Florida (UCF)
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 232 lbs

Overview

Blake Bortles emerged as one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2014 NFL Draft after a successful college career at UCF. With a combination of size, arm strength, and athleticism, Bortles was highly regarded as a potential franchise quarterback.

Strengths

  • Physical Tools: Bortles possesses an ideal NFL quarterback frame with good height and weight, allowing him to see over the line and withstand hits.
  • Arm Strength: He has a strong arm capable of making all the throws, including deep passes and tight window throws.
  • Mobility: Bortles is athletic for his size, displaying the ability to escape pressure and extend plays with his legs.
  • Production: He led UCF to a breakout season, finishing with impressive stats and earning accolades for his performance.
  • Leadership: Bortles demonstrated strong leadership skills, guiding his team through high-pressure situations.

Weaknesses

  • Inconsistency: At times, Bortles struggled with accuracy and decision-making, leading to turnovers and missed opportunities.
  • Footwork: His footwork could be improved, particularly under pressure, which sometimes affected his throwing mechanics.
  • Experience: Limited experience against top-tier competition in college raised concerns about his readiness for the NFL.
  • Coaching: Transitioning from UCF's offensive system to a pro-style offense could pose challenges.

Overall Projection

Blake Bortles was projected to be a first-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, with many analysts believing he had the potential to develop into a starting quarterback. His combination of physical attributes and college performance made him a sought-after prospect, despite concerns about his consistency and transition to the professional level.