Will The Bucs Take…Joe Flacco?

I’m starting a new series here entitled, “Will The Bucs Take…?” The draft is approaching very quickly, and I want to look at the positions the Bucs need, and the potential players they could pick from. I believe that the Bucs need to explore the quarterback position, so I’ll look at some of the quarterbacks that could fall to the Bucs at pick #20. First up, Joe Flacco, from the University of Delaware.

Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware (6′6, 236, 4.80-40)

One of the least known players to start the draft process, Flacco is now considered one of the top quarterback prospects, ranking in the top 5 in virtually every quarterback ranking come draft time. Failing to make a name for himself at Pittsburgh, he transferred to Delaware for his junior year. An injury to their star running back caused Delaware to fall to 5-6 in Flacco’s first year as a starter. He still managed to throw 2,783 yards, and 18 touchdowns with 10 picks.

2007 was Flacco’s first and only full year as a starter. In 15 games, he threw for 4,263 yards, completing 63.5% of his passes. He also threw 23 touchdowns as opposed to only 5 interceptions, leading his team to an 8-3 record. In just one season played at Delaware, Flacco ranks in the top 10 all-time at Delaware in three categories: 300-yard passing games (#1), pass completions (#9), and 200-yard passing games (#5). His outstanding season helped him become an All-American candidate and a nominee for the Walter Payton Award. He was also named the Co-Offensive Player of the Year in the Colonial Athletic Association, and was named to the CAA All-Conference First Team on offense. Flacco was invited to the East-West Shrine Game, but turned down that offer to appear in the Senior Bowl, where he was the most impressive quarterback. His performance at the Senior Bowl got him noticed quickly. After that performance, and impressive showings at the combine, he has raised his draft status considerably.

Strengths:

Flacco has excellent size for a quarterback, standing at 6′6. He has an outstanding arm, one that threw the ball 74 yards at the State Farm College Football All-Star Challenge, winning him the competition. He has a quick delivery and is very accurate with his passes. He understands the game, and is smart, scoring a 27 out of 50 on the Wonderlic Exam. He is tough, and while at Delaware, proved he was a leader. 

Weaknesses:

While he is quick and can throw the long ball, he is not very mobile, and can sometimes let the passes go to far. His instincts in the pocket have caused questions for everyone watching him. He doesn’t have a lot of experience, and playing at Delaware, he hasn’t had a lot of serious competition.

Will The Bucs Take Joe Flacco?

Jon Gruden has expressed interest in him. Many draft experts don’t even see the Bucs taking a quarterback in the draft. I believe that the Bucs need to take one, at least to build upon in the future. Gruden talked about his arm strength, which is a huge plus. At Delaware, Flacco primarily ran the offense from the shotgun. While it could take some serious adjusting to get used to any big league squad, Flacco is a quick learner and could pick it up quickly.
Chances: Fair