When evaluating quarterbacks, it is important to consider all aspects of their games -- mental makeup, accuracy, release/arm strength and pocket mobility.
Here's how we rank all draftable 2012 quarterback prospects in a variety of position-specific skill sets, (non-seniors noted with an asterisk), followed by a look at all draftable 2012 prospects, recent measurement and timing averages for quarterbacks invited to the combine, market trends at the position and Round 1 and 2 picks from 2011.
Mental makeup
Makes decisions that put his team in the best position to succeed. Makes intelligent pre-snap reads, including blitz pickup, coverage recognition and possible audibles. Can identify coverages while dropping from under center. Consistently looks off the safety and/or avoids telegraphing his throws. Understands the importance of ball security. Displays outstanding mental toughness and is poised under pressure. Tireless worker on and off the field.
Top three in class
1. Andrew Luck, Stanford*
2. Kellen Moore, Boise State
3. Robert Griffin III, Baylor*
Accuracy
Sees passing windows develop quicker than most. Has excellent anticipation and can throw on-target to a spot before receivers break. Hits receivers in stride. Shows touch and changes velocities skillfully.
Top three in class
1. Luck
2. Nick Foles, Arizona
3. Brock Osweiler, Arizona State*
Release/arm strength
Has technically sound ball carriage (chest high with points of ball vertical). Throws with an efficient motion that allows him to get the ball out quickly. Is able to change launching points when necessary. Gets necessary RPMs on the ball. Shows the ability to fit the ball into tight spots downfield. Can throw deep sideline routes with ease and drive the ball vertically through wind.
Top three in class
1. Ryan Lindley, San Diego State
2. Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma State
3. Foles
Pocket mobility
Displays poise in the pocket. Feels the rush coming before the pocket collapses. Has the foot quickness to buy extra time and knows how to avoid the rush properly -- sidestepping the inside rush and stepping up versus the outside rush.
Top three in class
1. Griffin
2. Luck
3. Russell Wilson, Wisconsin
Quarterbacks who do not receive draftable grades from Scouts Inc. but were invited to the combine: Miami's Jacory Harris, Chattanooga's B.J. Coleman, Richmond's Aaron Corp, Yale's Patrick Witt, LSU's Jordan Jefferson.
The following is a graphic representation of the number of quarterbacks selected in each round of the previous three NFL drafts. Most NFL teams use this type of chart to study position trends when setting up their draft boards each year.
Scouts Inc.'s Todd McShay, Steve Muench and Kevin Weidl contributed to this report.