QB is so tough. I think part of it with them is their ability to process information. I think it also takes immense dedication. First one in, last one out. Brady was never the most physically gifted, but man was he dedicated. From diet, to film room to just a burning desire to be the best and he demanded it out of teammates.
Montana wasn't physically gifted either, but he just processed things so quickly and he had nerves of steel. Nothing rattled him. Ever. Same with Warner, he could be beat to a pulp in Martz's offense, but he just stood in there and dropped dimes all day. Knowing he was going to get blown up. He was unrattleable. If thats a word.
As far as other positions. Dedication comes into play for sure, but I think getting into the right situation means alot. Esp later round guys with physical limitations. Can a position coach or DC find what works for a guy and put him in a position to use those talents he does have to help him succeed.
The ones that fail usually don't get that coaching, don't work hard enough after years of being the best player on the field and coasting, or just mentally cannot process the game fast enough. Or are just plain too physically limited.
Example: Jimmy Kennedy was a highly rated prospect, he slid on draft day due to thoughts by teams that he didn't have the drive to be great. Rams draft him and sure enough, kid was lazy. he thought he could just show up and dominate. Doesn't work that way in the NFL.
Ryan Leaf, super talented and there was legit discussion between him and Manning on who should go first. He didn't have it between the ears. You cant fix that.
Cooper Kupp, why did he become one of, if not he best, WR in the game? Dedication to his craft. He understands everyone's job on the field for every play run. He is the best route runner I have ever seen. EVER. That takes dedication and a strong work ethic. So despite physical limitations, he is smart, can process and retain information at an amazing rate and is ultra dedicated. Put him with the right coach and there you go.
At least thats how I see it.
Don't waste your time looking back, you're not going that way. - Ragnar Lothbrok
