B.J.

Coleman

Coleman stood out at the East-West Shrine Game as the lone quarterback with NFL arm strength and physical tools. Possessing prototypical size (6'3/234), Coleman often shows mannerisms of Peyton Manning after studying the legendary passer early in his college career. Down the line, Coleman should bypass Graham Harrell as Aaron Rodgers’ top backup.

A transfer from Tennessee after losing his starting job, Coleman threw for 6,892 yards with a 52:32 TD-to-INT ratio and 57 percent completion rate in 29 games for UT-Chattanooga. Coleman possesses a strong arm with the ability to make all NFL throws, but doesn’t always feel pressure and lacks top-notch accuracy. He’s the new developmental QB in Green Bay.

The Eagles own the Nos. 46 and 51 picks, though they already have 2010 developmental pick Mike Kafka behind Michael Vick. Philly kicked the tires on Peyton Manning and has expressed interest in the draft’s top quarterbacks, but the timing might not be right to spend a second-rounder on a signal caller.

As expected. Detroit had a wealth of quarterback depth over the last three seasons, but now needs to replace the departed Drew Stanton. The replacement will be a project, according to Lions GM Martin Mayhew. “I think that role, whether it’s filled in the draft or free agency, will be a developmental type player.”

Coleman was apparently “less impressive” in his interviews with teams, however. Coleman’s size (6'3/234) and big arm make it likely he’ll be drafted, but he could be facing an uphill battle to go any earlier than day three.

Creer was named offensive MVP on the strength of 15 carries for 80 yards. No player impressed this week as much as UT-Chattanooga QB B.J. Coleman, who went 10-of-15 for 168 yards and a touchdown on Saturday. Possessing prototypical size (6'3/234) and a rocket arm, Coleman is the lone potential NFL starting QB among the Shrine prospects. Originally projected as a mid-to-late round pick, Coleman’s stock is rising steadily.

The annual Super Bowl contenders are taking a leap of faith with Harrell in the No. 2 role. Although seventh-rounder B.J. Coleman showed improvement during OTAs, he’s still slated for the developmental No. 3 job as a rookie. By late August, Green Bay could be the favored landing spot for trade candidate Colt McCoy.

After much handwringing over which player would claim the Packers’ final receiver spot, Borel, Moss and Tori Gurley were each handed their walking papers on Friday. All three will be candidates for the practice squad if they go unclaimed on waivers. The No. 243 pick in the draft, Coleman attempted just seven passes during the preseason, and is surely practice squad bound.

Coleman is the more talented of the backup competitors, while heady Harrell is a favorite of the coaches. “He’s very talented,” coach Mike McCarthy said of Coleman. “I really like the development and improvement in his fundamentals ... He needs to play.” Coleman will play plenty in August exhibition games.

Coleman isn’t as athletic as Harrell, but he’s got a bigger arm and stands firmer in the pocket. His presence may be the reason the Packers never upgraded the position behind Rodgers this offseason. Coleman’s biggest limitation is his shortage of athleticism. Coaches want him to improve throwing on the run.