The NFL is a copycat league, which is why several teams are taking an interest in rookie quarterback Vernon Adams, Jr. because he reminds some scouts of Super Bowl winning signal caller 
Russell Wilson. While this year’s NFL Draft has two to four decent early round starting quarterback options depending on who you ask, the young former Oregon Duck/Eastern Washington Eagle should be available with a much later, smaller investment. I reviewed several of his games against Washington, Oregon State, California, Montana (2014), Sam Houston (2014), and his all-star East-West Shrine game to get a better idea of what skills and attributes he brings to the next level. These are my thoughts:
QB-Vernon Adams, Jr., Oregon, 5′ 11″ 200 lbs.
Cons: His height and weight are concerns right from the jump as most NFL teams and fantasy players feel that Russell Wilson is the exception to the rule. These have been a factor with many passes getting knocked down near the line of scrimmage, and the quarterback seems to wear down under pressure having missed at least three games in the past two seasons due to injuries (foot and index finger). Adams has a longer than usual windup, throws with less speed than most NFL quarterbacks, doesn’t always protect his receivers with his ball placement, and possesses small 9 1/8″ hands. He loses accuracy the deeper his passes travel, and only played in a top-level college program for one season (started in Eastern Washington for three years).
Pros: The former athletic Duck/Eagle is very mobile, shows good accuracy on short to intermediate throws, especially on the run. Adams feels pressure, steps up in the pocket, and avoids blitzers with quick feet and decent vision keeping his eyes down field at all times. He takes his time going his progressions, plants his feet before throwing, but is not afraid to tuck the ball and run when needed. In the open field, the young play maker reads the field quickly while using good balance, spins, and stiff-arms to create separation in the open field. His maneuverability is quite clear when you look at his 6.82 second three cone drill performance at Indianapolis.
Overall impressions: The young field general is not quite the athlete that Wilson is, but that doesn’t mean he couldn’t have a place in the NFL. I see him with NFL starting potential in more of a Case Keenum or Brian Hoyer kind of way. Adams is draftable in two quarterback and/or super-flex dynasty leagues, but like the NFL Draft should be selected late.
Thanks for reading!
You can follow me on Twitter @AndrewMiley and/or the site @Dynasty_Blitz.
