NFL Draft 2021: Ranking potential 49ers quarterback targets

BYU quarterback Zach Wilson (1) Mandatory Credit: Rick Bowmer/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports
BYU quarterback Zach Wilson (1) Mandatory Credit: Rick Bowmer/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mac Jones, Alabama Crimson Tide
Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Mac Jones (10) Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Category: Throwing accuracy

Rankings

  1. Mac Jones
  2. Zach Wilson
  3. Justin Fields
  4. Trey Lance

Analysis

Throwing accuracy is arguably the No. 1 trait the 49ers will be looking for in a quarterback, as head coach Kyle Shanahan prioritizes accuracy over strength in his scheme while using scheming to get receivers open for large gains.

Accuracy is the one thing Mac Jones has over the other potential prospects, as he’s done a very good job of being an accurate passer. As mentioned in the arm-strength slide, Jones would fit very well into a West Coast offense or the type of scheme Shanahan and the 49ers use.

Zach Wilson has done an excellent job as quarterback for the Cougars, and his accuracy is as good as his arm strength. He’s the best prospect when you combine both strength and accuracy.

Justin Fields is a very good passer in his own right, and his ability to throw on the run is excellent as it has to be given his ability as a dual-threat quarterback. His one knock, however, is his ability to handle pressure, and that includes his ability to throw under pressure.

Trey Lance is by no means a liability with his accuracy, but he can stand to get better for the pros. He has a habit of throwing the ball when he shouldn’t in some cases, and while that worked with the lesser talents he was facing while at North Dakota State it’s more liable to get him picked off in the NFL.