Weaknesses:
Summary: It is a weak quarterback class, so Nassib is one of the signal-callers who can benefit from a big demand and a weak supply. He could easily be just a late-round selection in other years, but He could end up being a mid-round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Nassib was an efficient signal-caller for Syracuse and led his program to some solid seasons. He broke into the starting lineup in 2010 and completed 56 percent of his passes for 2,334 yards with 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Nassib improved his accuracy in 2011 as his completion percentage rose to 62 percent. He totaled 2,685 yards with 22 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Nassib also ran for 155 yards and two scores.
The senior completed 62 percent of his passes in 2012 for 3,749 yards, 26 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He displayed intelligence and accuracy. Nassib had a record-setting game in a narrow loss to Northwestern in Syracuse’s opener. He threw four touchdowns in the second half to give the Orange a lead. Nassib set Syracuse records in passing attempts and yards as he completed 45-of-66 passes for 479 yards with four touchdowns and an interception. Nassib also picked up some clutch yards on the ground. The Orange didn’t have a strong supporting cast, and Nassib played better than his numbers indicate.
At the Senior Bowl, sources with one team that could consider Nassib told WalterFootball.com that they were disappointed in his performance. They were excited to see him, but let down by how he played in practice. They said Nassib has a hitch in his delivery that hurts the speed of his release. His accuracy and arm strength weren’t up to expectations either. Other scouts noticed that as well. Nassib’s stock has fallen considerably from the 2013 Senior Bowl. Some were thinking he had a shot at the first round; he looks more like a mid-rounder now.
Nassib has a quality arm, but he can’t beat defenses only on the zip of his passes. Nasssib has to make good decisions and anticipate receivers coming open with well-placed passes. He has some accuracy, field vision, toughness and intelligence to work with. Nassib also isn’t a running threat, but will scramble to buy time and can pick up some yards on the ground. He distributes the ball well and would be a good fit in a West Coast offense.
The Syracuse coaching staff led by current Buffalo Bills head coach Doug Marrone did a good job of preparing Nassib. Marrone was previously the offensive coordinator of the Saints, and Nassib was running the same offense as Drew Brees. Nassib is a confident and smart quarterback who has good intangibles. He may have enough to overcome his less-than-ideal physical skills.
It is hard to project Nassib becoming a quality starting quarterback in the NFL. He looks more like a backup, but it is possible that he’ll prove that wrong and become a good quarterback as a pro.
Player Comparison: Matt Moore. Nassib has a similar game to the veteran signal-caller of the Panthers and Dolphins. Moore is a smart, game-manager who can display some accuracy on touch passes. Moore (6-3, 216) is an efficient quarterback, but he won’t set the world on fire. Nassib could be similar in the NFL. Moore and Nassib are both intelligent and have similar physical skill sets. Moore went undrafted, while Nassib is likely to be a mid-rounder.
NFL Matches: Kansas City, Buffalo, Arizona, New York Jets, Jacksonville
There a lot of quarterback-needy teams that could consider Nassib. The Chiefs, Bills and Cardinals are all candidates to use their first-round pick on a signal-caller. If these teams decide to target other positions, Nassib could be in play for any of them. There have been reports from Tony Pauline that the Bills don’t like Nassib despite his being coached by Marrone.
The Jets need to find some competition for Mark Sanchez. Nassib has the intelligence and confidence to compete, but it would be a surprise if he won the job. Still, New York could consider him.
Likewise, the Jaguars could look for a competitor to push Blaine Gabbert. Nassib could make sense for Jacksonville in the third or fourth round.
RELATED LINKS:
2013 NFL Mock Draft: Charlie’s | Walt’s
2013 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings
2013 NFL Draft Scouting Reports
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