The 2014 class of quarterbacks entering the NFL Draft looks like it could be a very strong one. The players eligible to enter the ranks of professional signal callers include some nice combinations of passer and athlete that could continue to redefine the position. Though the college season has just begun, projections have already begun by writers and draftniks across the internet, predicting which of the passers will be first rounders, and which won’t be. One player who is being touted by many as a potential top 10 pick is Oregon’s Marcus Mariota. Some would disagree with that prognosis.

Mariota has excelled in Oregon’s fast-paced, high-scoring offense. As a redshirt freshman in 2012, he completed 68% of his passes for 2, 677 yards with 32 touchdowns and just six interceptions,adding nearly 900 yards and five touchdowns rushing, while leading the Ducks to a 12-1 record, and a Fiesta Bowl win. He was in command of the offense, and rarely made mistakes in his first season of action. It was only natural that he would bring a lot of hype into the 2013 season, and he did just that. Considered a Heisman candidate, and an All-American before the year even started, expectations were high.

There’s a lot to like about Mariota. He has good size at 6’3” and 215 lbs, and it put together well. He’s also an amazing athlete, with great speed, and a tremendous feel for the game. He’s been praised by coaches for his hard work and his intelligence. He also has a good arm, and appears able to make all the throws. These skills have rocketed him up early draft boards to, in some cases, a top five pick. However, there are some risks associated with him. The Oregon offense is predicated on a dominant running game and quick reads by the quarterback. Mariota rarely has to go through progressions, usually making one read, then taking off. He’ll need to prove he can be a pocket passer instead of a running quarterback who is limited in throwing it. The read-option quarterbacks who are finding NFL success have also shown an ability to stand in under pressure and win games with their arms.

Marcus Mariota might wind up as a great player and a huge star in the NFL. By the end of 2013, he may have dispelled all doubts, and earned his spot at the top of the draft. He’s ultra-talented and has the raw skills to be special. However, right now, he still does have something to prove to NFL scouts. He could be the best player in the entire draft, but right now, it’s just a bit premature to say it.