With Pierre Garcon reportedly turning down an initial five-year contract offer and Reggie Wayne on the cusp of free agency, the Colts could be very thin at wide receiver. Furthermore, the Colts lack a tall threat that can compete for jump balls and be their own version of Calvin Johnson in the red zone.
Brian Quick is the guy you can envision in such a role and should be available in the second round. A former basketball player and high-jumper, Quick measured in at a stout 6'4", 220lbs and is one of the most impressive, physical receivers in the draft. Quick is Appalachian State's all-time leader in receptions (202), touchdowns (31), and receiving yards (3,418). He is considered a raw prospect, only playing his senior year of high school football. His size allows him to get the edge on virtually every defender and his catching radius (34 1/4" arm length) makes him the favorite to come down with the ball when it's up for grabs.
Quick lacks deep threat speed (4.55 40) and has trouble getting separation with high-level corners. His quickness comes while in stride, allowing him to be utilized in the short game favorably. Quick's hands are one of the most favorable aspects of his ability, as he is noted for having exceptional hand-strength. His route-running ability is another strong suit, breaking off routes and using his physicality---he's not afraid of contact---to overcome defenders.
The biggest knock on Quick is that he suffers from inexperience. In his transition to the NFL, Quick is going to need some ideal development from a special coach. Fortunately for the Colts, Quick would certainly be in good hands with Bruce Arians, who is no stranger to receiver development (Mike Wallace or Antonio Brown, anyone?). With the right tutelage, Quick could be an absolute steal and big-time threat at the next level. No way I see the Colts going with a receiver at number 34 (NT is a dire need, among others), but Quick will certainly be worth a look if he falls.
At the Combine, I was fortunate enough to sit down with Quick at a table. As for my take on his personality, he is very soft-spoken, intelligent, and eager to learn. He almost seemed surprised to receive as much attention as he did, which was refreshing to witness (see Trent Richardson). Quick cited his character as the main difference between him and the other tall receivers in in this draft class and I'm inclined to believe him. He has a lot of confidence in his hands and jumping ability.
"Every time the ball is in the air, I want it," Quick told me.
Quick is a former prep basketball stud, who played only one year of football in high school before signing with Appalachian State and his coordination on the hardwood certainly carries over to the gridiron. He does a nice job off the line setting up defenders, maintaining proper balance, using his long arms to keep himself clean and exhibiting a burst into his route.
Long, lean, athletic former hoopster loaded with upside and raw physical ability, including tremendous ball skills, elevation and "above-the-rim" coordination. Return on investment depends on the extent to which he takes to NFL concepts and refines his talent.
Combine Measurements:
Height | Weight | 40 Time | Bench | Vertical | Broad |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
6'4" | 220 | 4.55 | 15 reps |
34" | 9'9" |