Sam Ehlinger (Texas) - 2021 NFL Draft Pick #218 by IND
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Sam Ehlinger - 2021 NFL Draft
Player Overview:
Sam Ehlinger, a quarterback from the University of Texas, was a prominent figure in college football, known for his leadership, toughness, and dual-threat capabilities. He had a successful college career, leaving Texas as one of the top passers in the school's history.
- Height: 6'1"
- Weight: 220 lbs
- College: University of Texas
- Career Stats: Over 11,000 passing yards, 94 touchdown passes, and 1,000 rushing yards.
Strengths:
- Leadership: Ehlinger was known for his ability to rally his teammates and command the huddle.
- Mobility: He possesses good athleticism, allowing him to escape pressure and make plays with his legs.
- Arm Strength: Ehlinger has a strong arm capable of making all the necessary throws at the NFL level.
- Experience: With multiple years as a starter, he has faced a variety of defenses and situations, giving him valuable experience.
- Competitive Toughness: Known for his grit, Ehlinger often played through injuries and exhibited a strong will to win.
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistency: At times, Ehlinger struggled with accuracy and decision-making, particularly under pressure.
- Mechanics: His throwing mechanics could be improved, particularly his footwork and release time.
- Injury History: Ehlinger had some injury concerns during his college career, which raised questions about his durability at the professional level.
- Limited Upside: While he has a solid skill set, some scouts questioned whether he had the elite traits necessary to be a franchise quarterback.
Overall Assessment:
Sam Ehlinger was viewed as a developmental quarterback with the potential to be a solid backup or a spot starter in the NFL. His leadership abilities and competitive nature were praised, but concerns about consistency and mechanics led to mixed evaluations among scouts. As a quarterback with dual-threat capabilities, he was expected to bring value in both passing and running situations, making him an intriguing prospect for teams looking for depth at the quarterback position.