Marcus Mariota Too Nice to Succeed in NFL?

Nov 1, 2014; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) throws the ball before the game against the Stanford Cardinal at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2014; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) throws the ball before the game against the Stanford Cardinal at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota has drawn some criticism from an NFL scout for being too nice.

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There has been quite a bit of hype surrounding the Oregon Ducks’ star quarterback, and Marcus Mariota looks like a sure top NFL draft pick. He has the athletic ability to make plays with his legs, but he also has a great arm that is more than capable of making it at the next level. It’s hard to find any issues with him, but according to one NFL scout he may be too nice and not have the alpha dog mentality that being an NFL quarterback takes.

From NFL.com:

"“Like if you punched him in the stomach, he might apologize to you. I just don’t know if he’s that alpha male that you’re looking for. The kid’s kind of a fly on the wall kind of guy. Physically, he’s really talented, but it’s going to take a little time. If you’re expecting him to come in and be your savior year one, I don’t think that’s going to be it.”"

Mariota has had yet another big season this year with the Ducks, throwing for 2,283 yards, 24 touchdowns, and just one interception heading into tonight’s game. He has also picked up 325 yards and five touchdowns on the ground.

Needless to say, those numbers seem to say the exact opposite of this scout’s opinion. He may not be the most alpha male quarterback out there, but he is a more than capable leader that has done an excellent job with the Oregon offense. At just 21 years of age, Mariota has plenty of time to grow as a leader and a player.

While leadership is something that all NFL quarterbacks must have, it doesn’t mean that he has to be a rugged, mean player. He is more than capable of leading with a nice personality, and it seems a bit ridiculous to say that he is “too nice” to be a leader. Despite this type of report, the future is extremely bright for Mariota at the next level.

Expect to see Mariota continue his strong season with the Ducks, and be one of the top draft picks this coming offseason. He looks prepared to have a very nice NFL career as well.

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