Kiper reveals Georgia's Bennett's draft projection

Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Stetson Bennett. Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Mel Kiper reveals Georgia QB Stetson Bennett's draft projection

By Colum Dell | Last updated 1/25/23

ESPN's Mel Kiper unveiled his NFL Mock Draft 1.0 on Wednesday and made rounds on various morning shows to promote it. On "First Take," he was asked about his thoughts on Georgia QB Stetson Bennett IV and his draft stock.

"Nobody can really give you any answer on Stetson Bennett other than 'Bryce Young is going to go in the Top 5, where's Stetson Bennett going to fall?' This guy wins games; he's a gutty competitor," Kiper told hosts Stephen A. Smith and Chris "Mad Dog" Russo.

The draft expert, tired of evaluators lazily comparing shorter QBs to Drew Brees, likened the 5-foot-11 Bennett's play to fellow prospect Fresno State QB Jake Haener.

"Stetson Bennett, to me, will probably end up being about a third-round draft choice," Kiper added.

ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. on when he predicts Stetson Bennett will go in the 2023 NFL Draft

The last time a Georgia QB went within the first 3 rounds was Matthew Stafford in 2009 pic.twitter.com/eNJxhxC4YN
— The Players' Lounge (@ThPlayersLounge) January 25, 2023

Bennett, 25, became the first QB in Georgia history to pass for 4,000 yards in a single season this year. He threw for 4,127 yards and 27 touchdowns, along with a team-leading 10 rushing touchdowns during his second consecutive national championship-winning campaign.

In recognition of his outstanding performance this season, Bennett won the Manning Award.

It's worth noting that no other Manning Award winner has fallen out of the first three rounds of the NFL Draft.

49ers QB Brock Purdy's unexpected rise gives hope to lower-profile QB prospects like Bennett and could motivate teams to reach for them earlier in the draft.

While Kiper predicts teams will be searching for the "next Purdy," the chances of another Mr. Irrelevant making the same impact as Purdy has are slim.

Although Bennett has some natural talent, his 28-3 record as a starter is what teams will value most. Given his age, he'd be a fit for any team as a backup with the upside to be a starter if needed.

Rather than participating in the Senior Bowl to boost his stock, Bennett will focus on preparing for the NFL Combine and Draft, according to OutKick.

With a strong showing in drills and impressive interviews, he could solidify himself as the Day 2 selection Kiper predicts

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