NFL Draft Rumors: Christian Hackenberg blames poor play on James Franklin

Christian Hackenberg reportedly has been blaming his poor play on Penn State coach James Franklin

One of the more intriguing quarterback prospects in the 2016 NFL Draft is former Penn State signal caller Christian Hackenberg. Just a few years ago as a true freshman under then-head coach Bill O’Brien, people were pegging him as a hands-down No. 1 overall pick when he could become eligible. But the last two years in Happy Valley, his play declined and now it doesn’t even look as if he’ll sniff the first round.

But, Hackenberg might have another problem on his hands in regards to where he’ll get picked. Apparently, he’s blaming that decline not only on anyone but himself, but he’s going right to the top of the coaching chain.

According to a report from MMQB, in recent discussions with NFL executives, Hackenberg has had no issue in blaming Penn State head coach James Franklin for his issues on the field the last two seasons since he took over the helm from O’Brien, which of course isn’t the best look in the world.

Is there a chance that Franklin and Hackenberg weren’t the best fit for one another the way that Hackenberg and O’Brien were? Sure, but when it comes to playing on a team, especially at the professional level, loyalty means a lot to some of these head honchos. If they’re talking to a young man that will place the blame on anyone but himself for struggles, especially his former head coach of all people, they’ll be more than weary of adding him to their fold.

If Hackenberg does plummet down the boards come draft time, poor play the past few seasons might not be the only reason for that.

For more NFL Draft news, be sure to visit our hub page.