Detroit Lions: Solving the never-ending backup quarterback problem

The 2019 NFL Draft is going to be a weak one at the quarterback position, as there aren’t many quality options out there. However, there are some options that the Lions could explore to provide them a solid backup in case Stafford ever goes down for a few games. Starting around round five the Lions should be turning their attention to possible quarterbacks to select as their backup of the future.

Three rookies for the Lions to consider in the draft:

Brett Rypien, Boise State- Rypien is a talented quarterback that has all the traits to be a successful backup in the league, and maybe even a starter one day. He is a poised pocket passer with solid mobility and, according to Benjamin Solak of the thedraftnetwork.com, Rypien delivers a very catchable football to almost every level of the field.

If the Lions were able to land Rypien in the fifth round,  I’d be ecstatic as they would finally have a promising young backup quarterback.

Easton Stick, North Dakota State- Stick is a three year starter that provides many positive traits as a potential backup quarterback. He is a fairly accurate passer with good deep ball accuracy. Joe Marino from The Draft Network wrote that Stick was sound mechanically and works his progressions with consistency.

Stick would be a solid prospect to work with, and if paired with a bright veteran, could stabilize the backup position for years.

Jordan Ta’amu, Ole Miss- I’ve liked Ta’amu for awhile now, and personally, I think he’s better than Missouri quarterback Drew Lock. Every time you watch him play he makes a handful of great throws that make you sit down.

He’s not perfect, and as a one year starter he definitely needs more time, but I think Ta’amu could be not only the Lions primary backup, but also their future at the position once Stafford is gone. The Draft Network’s Jon Ledyard said it best:

"“Despite the fact he is receiving little hype at this point, Jordan Ta’amu is the ideal developmental, mid-round quarterback pick in this class. He’s accurate, mechanically-sound and can beat defenses at all levels of the field already… I don’t want him starting right away, but if he lands in the right spot, he has the physical tools, athletic traits and impressive accuracy to be a starter in the NFL if he can refine the mental aspects of his game.”"