T*W*I*S: Ryan Mallet’s Fall Offers High School Prospects Multiple Lessons

The NFL draft created a stir over the weekend when record-setting, and former Arkansas, quarterback Ryan Mallet dropped to the 74th overall pick in the third round.  A 2010-11 pre-season Heisman Trophy candidate, Mallett produced some of the most impressive numbers in the history of the Souteastern Conference during his junior year in Fayetteville.   Then on Draft Day, Ryan was conspicuously absent from the hoopla in New York City.  Did he know the fate which awaited him?  Perhaps, but the third round?   The physical attributes are there.  The skill set is there.  The results are there.  So, why the fall from grace?  Rumors abound, of course, but somewhere there is an answer to this strange puzzle.  Where it is, only Ryan and his family can truly know.   Regardless, we can only imagine the excruciatingly painful experience the Mallett family endured as 73 opportunities, time and again, skipped Ryan as other pro prospects, most with less upside potential, were chosen instead.  Thankfully for the Mallets, it’s over and done.   Landing with the New England Patriots, regardless of the round, could be the very best thing which could have conceivably happened.  A mature, no-nonsense coach, future HOF team leader and a perennial Super Bowl contender are ensconced to help Ryan rebuild his confidence and reputation.  Here’s hoping that he uses this chance to become a far better football player and man.  As for the lessons this situation can teach current high school prospects, the NFL has sent a clear message to college football players — take care of your business, make good decisions and, perhaps most importantly, star power does not trump good judgment.