Quote:We will never know the answer to this question but I wonder how much of Blaine Gabbert's struggles were because of the combination of the 2011 NFL Lockout AND a coaching change in each of Gabbert's seasons with the Jaguars?   If for example,  Gabbert stayed in school another year and was drafted by a team that had much more stability than the Jaguars had during Gabbert's time with the team, would have Gabbert performed at a noticeably higher level?    

 

Maybe, but I personally don't think so.

 

I think he never had the instincts to play the position well.  For example, you can see a college QB "feel' the rush and step up, climb the pocket, and deliver a pass.... Gabbert didn't have it in college, and still doesn't have it after 3 years in the NFL.  I just think he never will have it, which is probably his biggest weakness.

 

I'm sure if he played on a loaded team his weaknesses would be hidden to some extent, but I doubt he would have become a successful QB because he just doesn't have that instinct.  

 

It's really evident when watching the good NFL QBs...even with bad protection they are still able to make the most out of each play, whereas for Gabbert he needed everything to be perfect just to have a chance.

 

 

I guess what I'm saying is that it doesn't appear to be a mechanical issue for him, something that can be taught.  He just doesn't have that calm demeanor in the pocket, that "pocket presence" to be a successful QB.  Maybe you can develop it, but after 3 years in the NFL he's still atrocious in that regard so I'm gonna say he doesn't have it.

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