Fran Tarkenton

New York Giants

Fran Tarkenton has done everything he can to make the New York Giants a winner, particularly with his leadership qualities. And when all his achievements are added up he ranks as the No. 5 passer in the NFL's all-time statistics.

Yet, according to the pro scouts, Tarkenton is not an outstanding quarterback.
 

Statistically, the 31-year-old quarterback who came to the Giants from Minnesota entered the 1970 season behind only Sonny Jurgensen, Johnny Unitas, Bart Starr and Len Dawson. He had passed for more than 200 touchdowns and more than 25,000 yards.

Nevertheless, he obviously hasn't totally convinced the scouts. Where the 6-foot, 190-pounder seems to fall short is in natural talent- throwing ability and set-up speed- although he is rated above-average in both categories with 3’s.

Tarkenton also is rated 3 in reaction under pressure, indicating that some of the scouts still feel he scrambles out of the pocket with the ball when he should be searching for a receiver.

Tarkenton's biggest assets are leadership and his ability to probe rival defenses. He has a talent for finding their weaknesses, although his physical skills do not always allow him to achieve what he sets out to achieve.

In all, however, Tarkenton has made himself an accomplished quarterback and, with youth still on his side, figures to remain No. 1 unless he decides to leave to pursue his ventures outside football.
 

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