You Got Long Enough Arms to Play Quarterback? An Unofficial Guide (Because Apparently You Can't Just Stretch and See)
So, you've got the moves like Jagger on the field, but your dreams of slinging spirals like Patrick Mahomes are being held hostage by a nagging question: Are my arms long enough? Fear not, aspiring gridiron gunslinger, because this guide will equip you with the knowledge to finally settle the arm-length debate.
Ditch the Measuring Tape (Unless You're Going for the DIY Route)
First things first, forget about that dusty old measuring tape in your toolbox. While it might be handy for everyday measuring needs (like that time you almost bought a couch that wouldn't fit through your doorway), the NFL uses a more official method at the Scouting Combine.
Why not the trusty tape measure? Well, picture this: you're stretching your arm out like a superhero ready to deflect an asteroid, tape measure dangling precariously. How accurate do you think that measurement will be? NFL scouts need precision, my friend.
Unveiling the Mystery: The "Fancy" Way
Now, onto the real NFL method. Here's what you'll need to channel your inner scouting combine participant:
- A helpful friend (because contorting yourself into a human pretzel while holding a measuring device sounds...tricky).
- A measuring tool (fancy scouts use a stadiometer, but a good old-fashioned yardstick in a pinch will do).
Here's the official arm-length measurement pose:
- Stand tall with your back straight (no hunching like Quasimodo here).
- Extend one arm straight out to your side, parallel to the ground. Think "high five gone wrong."
- Your friend, the measuring maestro, takes the tool and measures from the tip of your shoulder blade (that bony point) to the very tip of your middle finger.
Important Note: Don't try to cheat by stretching your fingers out like Wolverine's claws. Scouts want a natural arm extension, not a superhero impression.
So, How Long is Long Enough?
Here's the not-so-scientific truth: there's no magic number for arm length. However, quarterbacks with longer arms tend to have an advantage when it comes to throwing the ball over defenders and making those deep throws look effortless.
The average NFL quarterback arm length falls somewhere between 30 to 34 inches. But remember, this is just an average. There are plenty of successful quarterbacks who defy the "long-arm" stereotype (think Drew Brees with his 71-inch wingspan...because apparently arm length isn't everything!).
The Verdict: You've Got the Knowledge (Now Go Throw a Football!)
Armed with this newfound knowledge (and hopefully some decent arm extension), you can finally determine if your NFL dreams are built on a foundation of long limbs. But remember, arm length is just one piece of the puzzle. Footwork, accuracy, and that undeniable "it" factor are all crucial for becoming a star quarterback.
So, grab a football, find a friend with a measuring tool (or a really long ruler), and unleash your inner Mahomes. Who knows, maybe you'll be the next NFL sensation with an arm that defies the odds (or the tape measure).
