NFL Draft: Breaking down the differences between Winston and Mariota

Feb 21, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston (left) and Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota walk out together after finishing their workout during the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Feb 21, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston and Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota watch drills during the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

Final Analysis

As you can see, we have two categories for Winston, two for Mariota and one even. Have I made it abundantly clear that these guys are pretty dang close?

Winston graded out slightly higher than Mariota and I feel confident in that evaluation. He is a much better immediate fit in the NFL than the Oregon quarterback. Winston’s personality and playing style will almost certainly make his move to the NFL much easier.

Mariota is a fantastic talent with a ton of outstanding tools to work with, but I think it will be a longer transition at the next level.

Mariota and Winston are far and away the best quarterbacks in the 2015 NFL Draft and could wind up being taken with the first two picks on April 30 when the event kicks off. As of right now, Winston has the slight edge, but either guy could wind up being the No. 1 pick.

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