Greg Cosell: Football Expert Weighs in on Ryan Tannehill's Draft Stock

If you don't know the name Greg Cosell and you're wondering why you should care what he says, I cover that here. Cosell has watched as much football as anyone on the planet and today he took to Twitter to share his very interesting thoughts on Texas A&M QB Ryan Tannehill.

Greg's Take:

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Tannehill better prospect than Ponder. NIce feel in pocket. Good pocket mobility re: lack of experience. Willing to make stick throws.

— Greg Cosell (@gregcosell) March 23, 2012

 

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My Take: I would agree with Cosell here that Tannehill shows more, that means he can excel at the NFL level than Christian Ponder did. I also agree with his take that Tannehill's comfort level in the pocket is even more impressive when you consider that he only started for one-and-a-half seasons. Does that mean Tannehill will be a top 12 pick like Ponder? Of course not. Last year's draft happened during the lockout, so teams faced more uncertainty about how they could address QB situations for the upcoming season. Cleveland is unlikely to spend the No. 4 pick on Tannehill, so it will probably come down to Miami at No. 8 and Kansas City at No. 11.

Greg's Take: 

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Tannehill needs work with progession reading but can be coached. Must learn to validate safeties after snap. Threw well outside the numbers.

— Greg Cosell (@gregcosell) March 23, 2012

 

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My Take: Cosell's point can't be overlooked here. The things that Tannehill lacks—reading progressions and safeties—can be coached. Teams will know whether that coaching can take from chalkboard sessions in pre-draft visits. Tannehill is an impressive prospect because he demonstrates aptitude in areas that can't be taught. Solutions to deficiencies stemming from lack of experience can be taught.

Greg's Take:

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Tannehill threw w/anticipation. NFL throws: Outs, seams, hooks. Poised w/downfield focus. May have best pocket command + mobility in class.

— Greg Cosell (@gregcosell) March 23, 2012

 

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My Take: Strong words, but the tape backs them up. Pocket presence and the ability to throw to receivers while anticipating their breaks and coming open are both crucial indicators of NFL success. Some are skeptical that Ryan Tannehill is deserving of the top half of the first round hype. However, Cosell's refined tape-watching skills help illuminate why Tannehill is so highly regarded around league circles according to many draft experts.