2014 NFL Draft: Houston Texans early look at Top 5 QBs

Nov 30, 2013; Columbia, MO, USA; Texas A

Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M
Projected Round: First Round
Class: Sophomore (redshirt)
Height: 5-11
Weight: 210

Again, if the Texans don’t pick No. 1 overall, what do you think of “Johnny Football?”

The former Heisman Trophy-winning QB has had his share of off-the-field “issues,” so to speak, but he’s played in a lot of big games and seems to have the talent to play at the next level.

Here is what is said about Manziel in his draft analysis:

“Extraordinary all-around athlete who is a dual threat on the football field … Despite ordinary size, possesses large hands that coach Kevin Sumlin has compared to another undersized quarterback – Drew Brees. Proven production and ability to produce in big moments.”

When being compared to Brees, you better be able to back it up. Manziel had a really good game against Alabama this season. His stats for his sophomore season show 3,732 yards (270-391) with 33 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. His TD numbers are up by seven, while his interceptions have risen by four from his freshman season, all in one less game.

Manziel, the No. 11 overall ranked prospect, rushed for 686 yards this year (133 attempts) and had 1,410 yards on 201 attempts one season ago.

I don’t believe the Texans will take a chance on Manziel in the draft. He doesn’t seem like the type of quarterback they are interested in. His height isn’t what most NFL teams want, but players like Brees and Russell Wilson are proof a QB under 6-0 is capable of having success in the NFL. Remember, Wilson went in the third round of the 2012 draft.

It will be interesting to see the progress of Manziel in the NFL game, and a lot of it will come down to his maturity level. If he doesn’t or hasn’t grown up more from his first college season, the NFL will eat him alive.

I’d like to see “Johnny Football” have success in the NFL, though, since he’s fun to watch play in game situations, as he doesn’t seem to get rattled too easily.