One of the most polarizing players in college football, Penn State quarterback Christian Hackenberg has announced he is entering the 2016 NFL Draft. Hackenberg left the TaxSlayer Bowl early with a shoulder injury, having completed eight of 14 passes for 139 yards and one interception before his departure.
Hackenberg's career at Penn State was certainly fascinating. As a freshman under Bill O'Brien he thrived, making some draw comparisons to a young Andrew Luck. But when O'Brien left for the Houston Texans and James Franklin came in, the hype surrounding Hackenberg quickly unraveled as the young quarterback looked like a mess in Franklin's system.
It was partially a product of the system, an offensive line that was utterly lacking in talent and unable to give him time and just Hackenberg regressing at a rapid pace. It left many wondering where all the physical tools that people fell in love with had gone.
While two years ago Hackenberg might have been seen universally as a first-round pick, views on him now range from a second-round pick to undraftable, with more opinions leaning towards him being a day-three selection. Given the need for young quarterbacks in the NFL and the questions surrounding the 2016 NFL Draft class at quarterback, Hackenberg could go higher, but he is an extremely developmental quarterback who needs a lot more time than anyone could have expected just a few short seasons ago.