ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith talked about the differences between two of the current year’s best draft prospects: Ohio State’s Dwayne Haskins Jr. also, Oklahoma’s Kyler Murray– and called Haskins “more of a runner than a thrower.”
“Haskins is no joke as well,” Smith said. “I know that he’s bigger, he can make all the requisite throws on the NFL level. He played for a big time program at Ohio State. I just find him to be more of a runner than a thrower. I could be wrong about that but that’s what I find.”
Smith’s remark set off some of Haskins previous Ohio State colleagues who did, actually, observe Smith’s take to not be right.
Haskins announced in January that he would swear off his senior season to enter the NFL draft.
For the Buckeyes last season, Haskins had a 70% consummation rate and represented 54 of the group’s touchdowns.
Haskins’ 50 passing touchdowns broke the Big Ten’s gathering record for passing touchdowns in a single season, beating the past record of 39 held by Drew Brees by 11 tossing scores.
The best NFL draft prospect didn’t appear to be too staged by the criticism.
Friday’s reaction isn’t the first run through Smith has faced criticism for his remarks. The long time ESPN commentator came under fire in December for his Chargers-Chiefs breakdown that was loaded up with mistakes.
The 2019 NFL draft will take place on Thursday, April 25.
