Former Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians knows a thing or two about quarterbacks. He played a part in developing Ben Roethlisberger and Andrew Luck early in their careers. He also coaxed a career year out of Carson Palmer at age 36 during his stint in Arizona.
Arians is no longer responsible for mentoring Arizona's next long-term quarterback after he retired this offseason. But if he had his pick of which one the Cardinals should draft with their 15th pick, he’d take Louisville Cardinals QB Lamar Jackson.
“That's one guy I really am intrigued with because he can spin it and he's been in a pro-style offense and he's been hard coached by Bobby (Petrino),” Arians said per Bob McManaman of azcentral sports. “He brings that unique skill-set, and it makes me look back at Vince Young. Vince could beat you and he was a heck of a leader. I don’t know why it didn’t work out for him, but listening to him now, telling his story, he’s like, ‘I didn’t put the time in.’
“I think Lamar puts the time in. He's going to get better, and he just brings that unique ability to break the game open with his legs.”
Arians is certainly not alone in his admiration of Jackson. The former Heisman Trophy winner’s stock has steadily risen during the draft process and has reportedly caught the eye of several teams, including the New England Patriots.
The Cardinals likely won’t be complaining if a young quarterback of Jackson’s caliber somehow lands to them at No. 15. Jackson has the upside to become a star if a team can maximize all the terrific physical tools he has at his disposal. But with his stock continuing to gain steam around the league, the Cards might need to trade up from No. 15 to have any shot at securing Arians’ pick to become their quarterback of the future.
Follow Us
Subscribe