To Whom Does Nick Foles Compare?

Nick Foles enters his first season as the 1st-string quarterback of the Eagles (Image Courtesy Philly.com)

Does Nick Foles have holes? It is an interesting question to ask after the second-year quarterback put together a historic season in which he throw for 2,891 yards and 27 touchdowns with only two interceptions. But the question remains, does Foles have holes?

Searching the NFL for players of Foles size, there are few that compare. Yes, there are future Hall of Famers in Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, but that is not where I see the third-year quarterbacks upside. The former Arizona Wildcat has the tools to be a successful NFL quarterback, but who is comparison? The one player that keeps drawing the biggest comparison is Derek Anderson, former one-year wonder for the Cleveland Browns.

Anderson, currently the backup for the Carolina Panthers, was the last quarterback to lead the Browns to the playoffs, back in 2007. The veteran quarterback began the season as the backup and proceeded to in the starting job following the first game of the season. In 16 games, Anderson threw for 3,797 yards and 29 touchdowns, while earning a Pro Bowl nomination. The following season, coaches figured Anderson out, as he lost his starting job and roster spot on the Browns.

The comparisons between Foles and Brown do not stem just from their one year wonder seasons. Their measureables are similar. Foles stands 6'6", so does Anderson. Foles weighs 243 pounds, Anderson weighs 240. Both quarterbacks stand tall in the pocket but lack big-time arm strength.

Now Foles can change his future and become more than a one-year wonder, but that would mean having the drive and determination to be the best. Thus far, the third-year quarterback has shown the desire to improve. He has shown the ability to lead. What Nick Foles must prove now is that he is more than just a product of Chip Kelly's masterful offense.

Hal Greenblatt covers the Eagles for Eagledelphia. Follow him on Twitter: @HMGreenblatt