I’ve seen this criticism a lot about Sluka: that he doesn’t stay in the pocket long enough and is quick to run.
If this was last year, I’d be ecstatic if we had a dude that would take off instead of forcing a bad throw. That was Maiava’s MO. If he didn’t have an open receiver initially, it almost always resulted in a bad throw that was too late and often was picked off.
If Sluka can hit that 1st or 2nd option if it’s there, then great. If not, taking off and running ain’t a bad way to go.
I hear you, and you're right. That isn't the worst thing in the world.
But if the option is HMW and Sluka, which we are assuming is true. If Sluka has a very quick internal clock and tries to run too soon. Which is a very real possibility. He may have improved Pass pro this year vs last year, and he may abandon the pass too soon. The trade off being a very good runner, again not a bad thing. But he is also known for being physical and not ideal having him take too many hits.
On the flipside say you have HMW. A capable runner and definite upgrade from JM, but is more patient in the pocket and willing to wait that extra beat to make the play downfield through the air. Maybe not as effective as a ball carrier. Who do YOU choose?
I say HMW all day.
I agree that Sluka has the best ceiling. If he can be patient, make all the throws, and knows the playbook inside and out, I think he is probably the best option. Is he at this point for game 1? Maybe.
Then there is arm strength, accuracy, etc. I will always rather have the better thrower if things are even enough for the QB. But if the better runner, extends plays better, converts more 3rd downs, then that changes things.
.
