2017 NFL Draft Kansas City Chiefs Scouting Report: Josh Dobbs

If the Kansas City Chiefs aren’t able to draft a quarterback early in 2017, Josh Dobbs of Tennessee could be a solid addition later on.

It is largely expected that the Kansas City Chiefs will be drafting a quarterback in the 2017 NFL Draft. At least, that’s what all the signs are pointing to. KC is not expected to pick up the option on backup quarterback Nick Foles, which would create an opening. Furthermore, Alex Smith has just two years left on his contract. There is definitely room for a new face. That could be Josh Dobbs.

Mel Kiper pointed out earlier this offseason that Andy Reid always adds a quarterback. That certainly carries some water. Since the arrival of Reid and John Dorsey, the Chiefs have drafted quarterbacks Aaron Murray and Kevin Hogan. The team has also traded for Alex Smith and signed both Chase Daniel and Nick Foles. They also added Tyler Bray as an undrafted free agent. This is a team that keeps looking for a quarterback.

This year’s cache of quarterbacks isn’t overly impressive. There is no prospect in this class that can be defined as “ready to start”. Granted, most quarterbacks aren’t ready to get out there and set the league on fire right away. However, many are still able to get on the field and play the game. That does not appear to be the case this year.

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Fortunately, the Chiefs have Alex Smith as a capable starter for the next year or two to serve as a bridge. That means any quarterback the Chiefs might draft this year has time to develop. That puts the team in a strong spot as far as being able to take a quarterback without any immediate pressure.

Josh Dobbs – QB – Tennessee

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Depending on what game tape you’re watching, Josh Dobbs is either one of the best quarterbacks in this class, or one of the worst. I don’t know that I have ever been more frustrated in scouting a quarterback. I will put it this way: Dobbs has first round talent…he just doesn’t play like it.

Josh Dobbs shows very strong throwing mechanics that produce well-thrown and accurate passes. He’s a top level athlete that can extend or make plays with his legs. Dobbs has shown the ability to make both pre and post-snap reads against the defense. Utilizes his progressions rather than making one look and running. Dobbs can make every throw on the field easily.

The biggest hurdle to Josh Dobbs is his inconsistency and decision making. Dobbs will sometimes make very questionable throws into traffic or miss a receiver breaking open. Can rush himself at times, resulting in a breakdown of mechanics or a desire to run too early. He sports a thin frame that may expose him to injuries.

At the Combine and Senior Bowl, Josh Dobbs did a lot to improve his stock. Coaches and scouts have been speaking very highly of him after each event. That leads me to think he will be drafted well before what many analysts think. All of the tools are there with this kid if a team can have the patience to work with him. The Chiefs should be able to do just that.

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The Kansas City Chiefs are in a prime position to take a quarterback early. There is no pressure to start that player early on, which gives the staff time to develop him. That is a huge boost for anyone thinking about drafting a quarterback. The Chiefs already have an outstanding roster, so there is little risk at taking a shot at one of these young quarterbacks.