2010 NFL Draft: Jon Gruden and Ron Jaworski Break Down the QB Prospects

Jon Gruden and Ron Jaworski took time Tuesday afternoon to discuss the upcoming draft.

Though they discussed the draft in general, quarterbacks dominated the discussion—in particular the top four names of Sam Bradford, Tim Tebow, Jimmy Clausen, and Colt McCoy.

Jaworski studies the game with a focus on the quarterback position, the position he played for 17 years in the NFL.

Gruden coached both the Oakland Raiders and the Tampa Bay Bucs. He spent extended time with all four top candidates for an upcoming series on ESPN.

Here’s how they broke down the top four QB candidates in this year's draft. They have been posted in no particular order.

Sam Bradford

Both analysts agreed that Sam Bradford was the best QB available in the draft. The consensus seemed to be that Bradford could someday be an elite NFL quarterback. Gruden and Jaworski both spoke highly of Bradford's mechanics. He’s the prototypical pocket passer with a quick release.

Film study shows his toughness and willingness to hang in the pocket. Jaworski noted that Bradford would need time to learn the NFL game.

He’s “got touch” said Gruden. The former head coach said that physically Bradford reminded him of Vinny Testaverde, an “imposing figure” as Gruden described it.

Jaworski felt that the only question about Bradford would be the surgically repaired shoulder; “if he’s okay, he’s your No. 1 pick.”

Jimmy Clausen

Of all the QBs in the group, Jimmy Clausen will be most ready to play in the NFL. Both men felt that Clausen’s experience in a pro-style offense while under Charlie Weis projected best into the skills required at the next level. Gruden described it as a “great football pedigree,” adding he already understands progressions, situational football, and NFL passing concepts.

There was very little bad to say about Clausen in general. Though Bradford may have the skills with the most long-term potential, it's clear that Clausen possesses skills more ready for NFL requirements.

Jaworski noted Clausen’s leadership ability in the huddle, calling him a team’s “LeBron James.” Clausen comes with a toughness demonstrated while he played with a toe injury. He brought the Irish back with multiple fourth-quarter drives. He “plays his best football in the fourth quarter,” Gruden added.

At least by this information, Clausen looks like the best pick in the draft. Jaworski summed up his assessment best by simply stating, there’s “very little not to like about Jimmy Clausen.”

Tim Tebow

By far, the group had more questions about Tim Tebow than any other quarterback. The fact is, the story won’t change about Tebow until he’s drafted. Until then all anyone can do is speculate. Tebow will continue to work on his mechanics.

Both spoke highly of Tebow on a personal level. That seemed to be the factor that Gruden likes most about Tebow, irrespective of ability. Anyone who has spent time with Tebow always speaks of his commitment and drive. Gruden believes it’s that “hard to find attribute” that will allow Tebow to learn how to quarterback in the NFL.

Gruden believes Tebow could be a first round pick, but that Tebow would need time before playing. The team drafting Tebow would be “somebody with a down the road philosophy,” said Gruden. He believes Tebow could possibly play in the NFL as an H-back or tight end.

Colt McCoy

Colt McCoy may be more controversial a pick than Tim Tebow. The chatter surrounding McCoy tends to be questions about his ability to be an NFL quarterback. Some believe he lacks the skills to get the ball downfield.

He, like Tebow, played in a shotgun-heavy offensive system at Texas. Unlike Tebow, McCoy has played quite a bit under center. He maintains his presence in the pocket. Gruden felt McCoy could handle leading in the huddle as well.

Jaworski noted that issues with arm strength can be overcome. Gruden felt like McCoy could get the job done in the NFL. He compared McCoy to another quarterback with similar perceived weaknesses: “If you don’t like Colt McCoy, then you probably didn’t like Drew Brees coming out of Purdue either,” referring to the Super Bowl MVP.

Jaworski responded to one reporter's question as to who might be a "sleeper" QB pick. Jaworski said to be on the lookout for Jonathan Crompton from Tennessee. "He's fluid. Can make all the throws," said the veteran analyst of Crompton.