Geno Smith is being considered by many scouts as the top quarterback in this year's draft. While the quarterback class is lacking in starters, he might be the best of the bunch. Numerous teams are in search of quarterbacks either during free agency or the draft, so naturally Smith is garnering a lot of attention. While the Jacksonville Jaguars have Blaine Gabbert at starting quarterback, his failure to produce wins is leading the team to look elsewhere. Jacksonville general manager Dave Caldwell reportedly will give the West Virginia quarterback a look with a personal visit on Thursday.
Caldwell has gone on record saying the Jaguars are going to be a "needs-based team." In the draft, they plan on only looking at the team's greatest needs and not excess players to fill the roster. The team needs a quarterback. Gabbert was drafted No. 10 overall to the Jaguars in 2011. In his two years with the team, he has completed 53.8 percent of his passes, throwing for 3,876 yards and 21 touchdowns. However, he has also thrown 17 interceptions, 11 in his rookie year. The Jaguars won two games last season and are in need of an offensive upgrade.
Smith is the best passer in the draft. Last season he completed 71.2 percent of his passes for 4,205 yards. He also rushed for 151 yards and two touchdowns. He could be one of the next best versatile quarterbacks. While some experts may argue there are no quarterbacks worth taking in the first round of this year's draft, a team in need of one will likely take Smith with their first pick.
Caldwell has no ties to Gabbert. He was brought in after the quarterback was drafted. He has no attachment therefor has no issues looking for his replacement. The Jaguars intend on creating some quarterback competition, however if a trade presented itself, Jacksonville would likely cut ties with Gabbert in return for Smith.
Other teams that could show interest in Gabbert or Smith are the Buffalo Bills. However, the Jaguars have the No. 2 overall pick while the Bills have the No.8 pick. Smith could be taken off the board by the time Buffalo is ready to draft. The Eagles have also given Smith a personal work out, however their roster is already very quarterback heavy so it does not likely they will try to draft him.
