The Indianapolis Colts took the right chance by taking a quarterback in the 2020 NFL Draft. Now, more than ever, they are in a position to mentor the future of their franchise.
While the Colts have their short term answer with Philip Rivers, the longterm outlook of the quarterback position looked weak. While the Colts have two starting-caliber quarterbacks on their roster in Rivers and Brissett, both of them are unrestricted free agents next season, with Rivers potentially retiring. This meant that the Colts were in the perfect position to select a developmental prospect in the late rounds of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Jacob Eason checks nearly every box physically. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing in at 230lbs, Eason has the size and sturdiness to withstand the gauntlet of an NFL pass rush. His arm strength was unquestioned before the draft and has been considered among the strongest in the class. It makes one wonder: why did a quarterback with such great physical traits fall so far in the draft?
Eason seemed to never really live up to his potential in college. After coming in as the number one player in the country in the 2016 class, he started just 15 games at Georgia before going down with an ankle injury.
With Fromm eventually falling into favor with the Georgia coaching staff, Eason decided to transfer and play his senior season at the University of Washington. He had a good-not-great season, throwing 23 touchdowns to 8 interceptions, with a 64% completion percentage.
Some analysts argued that Eason should’ve stayed another year in school, but it’s clear now that the Colts are in the best position possible to take a developmental quarterback. The luxury of being able to sit behind two veteran starters and learn from them is invaluable for a young quarterback.
Indianapolis can teach him what it means to be a pro, while also honing in his natural ability on the field. It is almost certainly a more friendly developmental stop than staying in college.
With Rivers and Brissett in front of Eason, there will be no pressure to play too early. Eason has plenty of time to develop and learn the pro game. With fellow quarterback mentors, along with head coach Frank Reich, we know that Eason will be given the best possible chance to succeed.