Former ASU football quarterback Manny Wilkins finished his career as the fifth-leading passer in school history, but is it enough to get him to the NFL?
For the first time in over four years, Manny Wilkins will not bare the words “Arizona State” across his chest come next August.
But if there’s one thing for sure, it’s that he left behind some big shoes to fill.
The Novato, California, native amassed over 8,000 yards in his four years in Tempe, including finishing sixth in all-time touchdown passes (52) and second in rushing touchdowns (20) at the quarterback position.
And while his college career may be over, the same might not be said of his football career.
The redshirt senior might very well hear his name called in this year’s NFL Draft. Wilkins was among the many who performed well in front of 27 NFL scouts at last month’s ASU Pro Day.
Let’s take a deeper dive into what might make-it or break-it for Wilkins come this weekend.
Skillset
At 6-feet-2 inches tall and 193 pounds, Wilkins has the size to compete at the pro level. While the argument can be he needs to add of muscle, Wilkins showed that he can both throw the ball and run at a high level.
Wilkins was known for not shying away from the deep ball, throwing six 50-plus yard passes this season for the Sun Devils. He also maintained a 62.8 competition percentage during his senior season.
While his frame may come in question, that arm strength more than accounts for it.
Wilkins struggles with his accuracy at times, but during his senior season, the quarterback threw a career-low six interceptions, all while throwing for a career-best 20 touchdowns.
Wilkins has shown great instincts when in the pocket and may miss a throw or two, but doesn’t force the issue on his passes.
NFL Draft scout Matt Miller provided an analysis of Wilkins earlier this month.
Finishing Manny Wilkins tape today and once again really surprised by how much I like his game. Really good arm strength, quick dude in/out of the pocket. I'd draft him late.
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) April 10, 2019
Another plus for some teams would be Wilkins’ value as a multi-tool prospect.
He amassed over 1,000 yards on the ground with 20 rushing touchdowns in his four-year ASU career.
One cause for concern could be that Wilkins is three months removed from knee surgery. The former ASU quarterback had surgery to repair a Grade 3 MCL tear in the Sun Devils’ bowl game on Dec. 15.
With his speed and touch, Wilkins could sneak into the late rounds for teams looking for a capable backup quarterback.
Measurables
Despite still rehabbing from his knee injury, Wilkins did participate at ASU’s Pro Day in limited action. Here are the marks he posted from March 27:
Hand size: 9-5/8 inches
40-Yard Dash: Mid 4.7
Vertical Jump: 33 inches
Broad Jump: 119 inches
Wilkins with a 9'-11" best broad jump. pic.twitter.com/LBhGosi1sT
— Adam Noel (@Ads724) March 27, 2019
NFL Draft Projection
Chad Reuter (NFL.com): Undrafted
Draftanalyst.com: Undrafted
Draftscout.com: No. 30 out of 55