As the NFL Draft approaches, look for the stock of Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins to rise, not fall.
Why? To some degree because of the success of a similar-style QB, Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals, last season.
The NFL is the ultimate copycat league, and the same concerns about Dalton before last year's NFL Draft are being raised about Cousins.
While Dalton was praised as a "winner" and the consummate "game manager," the issue of his overall athleticism was brought up. He wasn't Jake Locker. Conversely, Cousins isn't Robert Griffin III.
But he has plenty of arm strength and distinguished himself at the Senior Bowl. It's not like Cousins is a complete and total statue. His pocket presence is OK. And undoubtedly, Cousins presents tremendous leadership potential because of his unquestioned work ethic and strength of character.
Dalton wasn't over-matched by the NFL. As the 35th overall pick in the draft, Dalton had one of the best seasons ever by a rookie QB, throwing for more than 3,000 yards, 20 TDs and 13 interceptions. Look for Cousins to be drafted late in the second or third round, too. And when he is drafted, listen to gurus. The first name they will mention: Andy Dalton.