Christian Ponder will have a lot to prove to a large segment of Viking fans, judging by the gut reaction after Minnesota resisted trading down to grab CP7 at the 12 spot. And what a coincidence that number is, since it's been 12 years since the Vikes drafted a QB in the first round of the draft.
At least some of the better informed Viking blogs and fans are optimistic and even pumped about Ponder putting on the purple and gold. Here's a sample, starting with one of the sharpest NFL draft analysts.
“I can’t wait for pre-season games and watch this kid develop.” - Mike Mayok, NFL Network
“We’re getting a tremendous leader who has a solid head on his shoulders. He has a quick release, tremendous mechanics, good footwork, above average arm strength, is familiar with a pro style offense and can read a defense. There will also never be doubts if he’s putting in the hours required to be an NFL QB, nor well he keep Leslie Frazier (head coach) or Rick Spielman (V.P. of player personnel) up at night with worries that a feature player on our team is up to trouble…”
“I hope Ponder works out and i'm not saying that he isn't good it's just that they took him in the wrong spot of this draft.”
“A day before working out Newton, the Vikings brass made a stop in Tallahassee to put Ponder through a private session. He is considered a very good fit for a West Coast offense, but it is still not known how much of that system new Vikings coordinator Bill Musgrave will retain.”
“Vikings just got their 2nd or 3rd stringer for the next five years.”
‘I guess "intelligent" and "quarterback" together is a refreshing thought for the Vikings.’
“CBSsports.com NFL senior analyst Pete Priscoe had him the #12 overall player in the draft - and top rated QB. Says Ponder will be the best QB to come out of this draft when it's looked back on in a few years. We'll see…”
“I think Ponder is a great choice...I the best QB overall in this draft...I am so sick about hearing about athletic guys with big arms with (upside) ??...Give me smart and very accurate with a great work ethic any day of the week...Not to mention most NFL ready..Did I mention quick feet and release..
“Ponder=pro bowl”
“It’s a bit of a reach, but i love Ponder, he played in a pro style offense, his foot mechanics are simply amazing and he gets to learn from Musgrave. I think we have our franchise qb. I have huge faith in this kid.”
“This is a QB league, they had to make a move this year, it will take some time, but this dude will be good. Finally a smart, accurate qb.”
Comments? Questions? Kudos?