Despite a snub from the NFL combine, Griffin has managed to improve his draft stock in the postseason, primarily through his private workouts with NFL franchises.
In fact, Griffin has received more private workouts with teams than any other QB in the draft, including Matt Barkley, Geno Smith, and E.J. Manuel. As a result, the blogosphere seems pretty confident that Griffin will hear his name called at some point over the next few days; an achievement that was very much up in the air a few months ago.
And with that, here's a roundup with what you need to know about quarterback Ryan Griffin.
1. According to the NFL's Around the League blog, Griffin is drawing interest from the Jacksonville Jaguars, New Orleans Saints, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, and San Diego Chargers. The overall weakness of this year's quarterback class certainly doesn't hurt. This is prime-time for a guy like Griffin to make a team's roster.
2. Scouts are warming up to Griffin for a couple reasons. He's 6'4", so he has the physical size to play at the highest level. They also dig his quick release and arm strength, as SB Nation notes.
3. ESPN Senior Analyst Chris Mortensen has started using the hashtag #sleeper when discussing Griffin's chances. I think that's cool, at least...
4. San Diego, in particular, seems like it might put Griffin on the board. The Chargers' QB coach praised Griffin after their private workout, and the QB situation in SD is always interesting. The coach also likened Griffin's style and ability to his own career in the NFL.
5. Griffin is also earning some buzz in the Pittsburgh Steelers' circle. The Steelers are a team that always struggle with depth (having utilized second and third string quarterbacks in the last two seasons). With no real interest in an early QB, Griffin might be a prime pickup for the 6-time Super Bowl champions.
6. Last but not least, here's ESPN analyzing the draft and calling Griffin the best player potentially available on day 3 of the draft.
There you have it. Roll wave.
