While hindsight is always 20/20, I wonder if scouts and coaches around the league would adjust their 2009 pre-draft quarterback rankings after watching Josh Freeman blossom into a star.
Freeman has exceeded expectations and developed into a franchise-caliber quarterback capable of leading his team into title contention.
Matthew Stafford and Mark Sanchez might exhibit similar qualities, but Freeman's ascension to the cusp of the elite has been remarkable considering the questions that surrounded him when he came out Kansas State as a junior.
Even though Freeman was regarded as a talented passer, there were questions about his decision-making, accuracy and pocket presence. The fact that he was maddeningly inconsistent made it tough to project his NFL potential.
Scouts also wondered if he had the leadership skills and moxie to function as the face of the franchise. Though he compiled gaudy statistics at Kansas State, his Wildcat teams were regarded as underachievers. The lack of success led to doubt about how much he could improve a franchise.
However, after watching him guide the Bucs to a 10-win season, Freeman has not only proven to be a winner, but he has made a strong case for being the top quarterback from the 2009 draft.
Follow Bucky Brooks on Twitter @BuckyBrooks
