2021 NFL Draft: Justin Fields
Justin Fields, Ohio State, 6'2 • 228 lbs
Coming out of high school, Fields was one of the top recruits in the country. Although his decision to stay in his home state and play for Georgia was short-lived. During his freshmen year he was primarily brought in on designed running sets and finished the season with a pedestrian 328 passing yards, 266 rushing yards and eight total touchdowns. The lack of playing time along with some off-field issues lead him to transfer to Ohio State. Fields flourished with the Buckeyes in his first season, passing for 3,273 yards, 41 touchdowns while completing 67.2 percent of his passes. This prolific season lead to him becoming a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. The 2020 season appeared lackluster in comparison, putting up 2,100 passing yards, 22 touchdowns on 70.2 percent completion. Although leading the Buckeyes to the National Championship can hardly be considered a disappointing season.
NFL teams are likely reassessing their draft boards after learning that Fields is managing epilepsy. Per the report, Fields has not been affected by the condition on the football field and his symptoms have been less frequent in recent years. Although Fields condition might be a cause for concern, this high upside dual-threat QB (highest rushing grade given to any non-running back) should still be selected very early on day one.
