Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Paxton Lynch (Memphis) - 2016 NFL Draft Pick #26 by DEN


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Paxton Lynch (2016 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

  • Name: Paxton Lynch
  • College: Memphis
  • Position: Quarterback
  • Height: 6'7"
  • Weight: 244 lbs

Overview:

Paxton Lynch emerged as one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2016 NFL Draft after a standout career at Memphis. He showcased a unique combination of size, athleticism, and arm talent that intrigued scouts and NFL teams.

Strengths:

  • Size and Frame: Lynch's 6'7" stature gives him an ideal physical profile for an NFL quarterback, allowing him to see over the offensive line and make throws from various angles.
  • Arm Strength: He possesses a strong arm, capable of making deep throws and fitting the ball into tight windows, which is essential for stretching the field.
  • Mobility: Despite his size, Lynch is surprisingly mobile and can escape pressure, making him a dual-threat quarterback who can extend plays with his legs.
  • Production: He had a successful college career, leading Memphis to significant victories and putting up impressive statistics, including a high touchdown-to-interception ratio.

Weaknesses:

  • Consistency: Lynch struggled with inconsistency in his performance, often showing flashes of brilliance but also making questionable decisions at times.
  • Mechanics: His throwing mechanics needed refinement, as he occasionally relied too much on his arm strength instead of proper footwork and timing.
  • Experience: Coming from a college system that emphasized a fast-paced offense, there were concerns about his ability to transition to a pro-style offense and read defenses effectively.

Overall Projection:

Paxton Lynch was projected as a first-round pick due to his potential and physical attributes. Teams looking for a franchise quarterback saw him as a developmental player with the ability to start in the near future. His combination of size, arm talent, and athleticism made him an enticing prospect for teams in need of a quarterback.

Final Thoughts:

While there were questions about his readiness and consistency, Lynch's upside was undeniable, making him one of the more intriguing prospects in the 2016 NFL Draft class.