Scouting Marc Bulger

Updated: October 7, 2003, 3:40 PM ET
By By Jeff Reynolds | Pro Football Weekly
Notes
Was a sixth-round draft pick of the Saints (No. 168) in 2000, 31 spots ahead of Tom Brady. Was let go by New Orleans, which had Jeff Blake, Aaron Brooks and Jake Delhomme. Bulger never took a snap with the Saints, even in preseason games. He went from the Rams' practice squad to the Falcons' practice squad that season before signing a contract with St. Louis in January '01. Lit up traning camp in '02 and, with injuries to Kurt Warner, started seven regular-season games, posting a 6-1 record and a 14-to-6 TD-INT ratio. Replaced Warner after Game One and has started since in '03.

Positives
Intelligent, accurate passer with a quick, technically sound release to make up for his lack of pure arm strength. Knows and understands coverages and has an uncanny field vision with the ability to read and recognize defensive alignments. Tougher than he looks and survived a nonstop beating at West Virginia. Makes good decisions and can sling it if he has to but is most effective on touch passes. Puts the receiver in position to make the play by putting the ball on his hands. Is really dialed in on third down and in the red zone.

Negatives
Durability has been and will be a concern. Tends to lock in on primary target, especially when it is Torry Holt. Struggles against teams that disguise coverage, like Tampa Bay and Philadelphia, because he reads the wrong keys. Below-average on the move. Loses velocity and accuracy on deep throws.


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