Steelers nab possible successor to Big Ben with Joshua Dobbs
The Pittsburgh Steelers have selected quarterback Joshua Dobbs from Tennessee in the fourth round (135th overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft.
Dobbs, an aerospace engineering major, was 23-12 as a starter in college and could be a long-term replacement for Ben Roethlisberger. The star pivot hinted at retirement after last season before announcing he would return in 2017.
The 6-foot-3, 216-pounder is one of the most athletic quarterbacks in the draft, rushing for 831 yards and 12 scores in his senior season to go along with 2,946 yards passing and 27 touchdowns against just 12 interceptions.
It's important to note that Dobbs was the 135th overall pick, which holds some significance when looking at last year's draft.
Just saying:
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 29, 2017
Last year Dallas used 135th pick on QB Dak Prescott.
This year Steelers used 135th pick on Tennessee QB Josh Dobbs.
Joshua Dobbs Bio
Position: QB
School: Tennessee
College Experience: Senior
Height: 6-3
Weight: 216 lbs
Strengths
- Arguably the best runner of the quarterback prospects in the draft.
- Incredible accuracy on throws over 21 yards (47.7 completion percentage). (NFL)
- Excellent ball-handling skills from read-option history in college.
- Valuable runner in short-yardage situations.
Weaknesses
- Thin frame could wear down with the rigors of the NFL.
- Lacks pocket polish due to the design of his college offense.
- Loses sight of defenders late in the down, leading to bad decisions (Pro Football Focus)
Combine Results
| Event | Result |
|---|---|
| 40-yd Dash | 4.64 sec. |
| Bench Press | N/A |
| Vertical Jump | 33 inches |
| Broad Jump | 122 inches |
| 3-Cone Drill | 6.75 sec |
| 20-yd Shuttle | 4.31 sec |