Russell Wilson Should Be Michael Vick's Understudy for Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles have been linked with more than one quarterback heading into the draft, taking the time to bring the likes of Ryan Tannehill and Kirk Cousins in for visits. However, Wisconsin's Russell Wilson is their best option for a backup quarterback in this draft class.

Wilson is a perfect fit for Andy Reid's version of the West Coast offense and offers a skill set similar to Vick's. Concerns about his height have Wilson falsely placed on most draft boards.

Yet the Eagles can ignore such issues, given that Vick stands at only 6'0". Those who can look past Wilson's lack of prototype size will see a strong-armed passer possessing almost unrivaled accuracy at the collegiate level.

The 5'11" 204-pounder led the country in quarterback efficiency, recording an eye-popping 191.78 rating. The diminutive signal-caller is able to make every NFL standard throw and excels at putting the ball right between the numbers.

Timing is one of Wilson's best qualities. He is adept at throwing to a spot and leading his receiver onto the ball just as the pass arrives. This kind of precision is crucial in a rhythm-based offense like the one run in Philadelphia.

He operated a pro-style attack at Wisconsin and demonstrated the smarts to quickly pick up nuanced NFL schemes. In terms of mobility, Wilson is blessed with good pocket athleticism.

He is a threat as a scrambler, though not in Vick's class. Wilson is elusive but lacks the breakaway speed offered by Vick. Having worked with Vick and Donovan McNabb before him, accommodating a running quarterback has become a staple of the Reid system.

Grooming Wilson would mean that the Eagles wouldn't need to alter any of the characteristics of their playbook. They would find plenty of crossover between Wilson's abilities and what Vick can do.

Wilson is a true sleeper pick in this draft. The pint-sized Badgers star is unlikely to go any higher than the third round. However, he displays the mechanics of a future NFL starter.

Reid has never been afraid to take risks with personnel decisions, particularly at the quarterback position. Wilson would certainly reward the team that is willing to take a chance on him.

CBSSports.com reported yesterday that the Green Bay Packers are exploring the possibility of having Wilson develop behind Aaron Rodgers.

With Vick now 31 and Vince Young a free agent, the Eagles' need for a capable understudy is arguably greater. Wilson would fit the bill perfectly.