Editor’s note: NESN.com will profile intriguing prospects in the days leading up to the 2016 NFL Draft. Next up: North Dakota State quarterback Carson Wentz.
Carson Wentz, quarterback, North Dakota State
6-foot-5, 237 pounds
Projected round: First
2015 stats: 130 of 208, 1,651 yards, 17 touchdowns, four interceptions, 62.5 completion percentage; 63 carries, 294 yards, six touchdowns
Testing numbers: 4.77-second 40-yard dash, 1.65-second 10-yard split, 30.5-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 10-inch broad jump, 4.15-second short shuttle, 6.86-second three-cone drill
Strengths: Wentz has ideal size and above-average athleticism for an NFL quarterback. He “throws with great velocity,” according to Pro Football Focus, which also said he stood out in Senior Bowl practices against top competition. He has the size to take a beating, allowing him to move around the pocket and pick up yards with his feet. Despite playing at FCS-level North Dakota State, Wentz played in a pro-style system and is experienced in intermediate to deep throws.
Weaknesses: Wentz rated below average in Pro Football Focus’ accuracy percentage, accuracy under pressure and deep accuracy metrics, despite playing against lesser competition. Wentz had a 42.4 completion percentage when under pressure, and he hit on just 37.5 percent of deep passes. Wentz started just 22 games at North Dakota State and played in just seven as a senior after suffering a wrist injury.
Patriots fit: He checks the boxes athletically, but he’ll be long gone by the time the Patriots pick.
Thumbnail photo via Butch Dill/USA TODAY Sports Images
