2012 NFL Draft Watch: Tyler Wilson, Arkansas

Last season, Ryan Mallett was the main focus of the Arkansas offense and was receiving a ton of draft attention.  Mallett's replacement could find himself catching the eye of NFL evaluators as the season progresses.  Actually, Tyler Wilson is entering the season with some buzz due to his impressive performance against Auburn.

Wilson has a ton of physical ability including excellent arm strength.  During the Auburn game, Wilson showed good zip on his throws to all parts of the field.  The ball arrived to the targets on a line with little time for the defenders to react.  Wilson showed the necessary quickness to elude pressure and escape the pocket.  His size and build are what you look for in a starting quarterback.

He has the ability to deliver an accurate ball to all levels of the field.  Wilson throws his receivers open, providing the opportunity for yards after the catch.  In the intermediate passing game,  Wilson does a good job placing the ball where only his receiver can make a play.  He isn't afraid to push the ball down the field and possesses both the arm strength and touch to be effective.

While Wilson possesses a ton of physical skills, he needs to work on improving his technique and consistency.  This isn't a major concern because he has received limited playing time and things like technique improve over time.  Wilson needs to do a better job remaining balanced in the pocket and bending his knees.  He has a tendency to have his feet close together and stand straight up and down.  This impacts his balance, accuracy, and ability to generate more power on his throws.  Wilson also needs to avoid falling off his throws and fading away. Again, this impacts the power on his throws and his accuracy.

Overall, Wilson has the skills to be a top-level quarterback prospect.  However, he needs more playing time to develop his technique and instincts.  He might be best served to avoid entering the 2012 draft, but don't overlook the fact he plays in Bobby Petrino's system and and has the potential to put up massive numbers.