Editor’s note: NESN.com will profile intriguing prospects in the days leading up to the 2016 NFL Draft. Next up: Alabama quarterback Jake Coker.
Jake Coker, quarterback, Alabama
6-foot-6, 244 pounds
Projected round:Â Seventh
2015 stats:Â 263 of 393, 3,110 yards, 21 touchdowns, eight interceptions, 66.9 completion percentage; 74 carries, 68 yards, two touchdowns
Testing numbers:Â A toe injury prevented Coker from participating in pro day drills.
Strengths:Â Coker had a strong showing in Senior Bowl practices, according to Pro Football Focus. He rated fourth among draft-eligible quarterbacks in Pro Football Focus’ accuracy percentage rating. Of his 130 incompletions, 21 were drops, 18 were throwaways, five were batted at the line and four came when he was hit while throwing. He also impressed while throwing deep, completing 20 of 47 passes over 20 yards for 796 yards. Coker has ideal size and bulk for the position, he possesses a strong arm, and he won a national championship with the Crimson Tide.
Weaknesses:Â Coker’s completion percentage was relatively high on deep passes, but he threw five interceptions on his 47 targets over 20 yards. He was average under pressure in 2015, completing just 46.4 percent of his passes with nine touchdowns and five interceptions. He only has one year of college starting experience.
Patriots fit: Coker has the size to be drafted by the Patriots, and playing for Nick Saban at Alabama can’t hurt.
Thumbnail photo via Butch Dill/USA TODAY Sports Images
