Former Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray isn't the only SEC quarterback with NFL hopes who is navigating a rapid recovery from a torn ACL.
Former LSU quarterback Zach Mettenberger is doing the same, according to the Twitter feed of ESPN insider Adam Caplan. Mettenberger tore knee ligaments in the latter stages of a comeback win over Arkansas in the Tigers' final regular season game on Nov. 29. Surgery to repair the damage was delayed until Jan. 2 to allow a sprained MCL in the knee to heal.
According to Caplan, Mettenberger already has begun simulating drop backs and performing agility drills with "good range of motion." Mettenberger will reportedly train with former New York Giants quarterback Scott Brunner beginning next month.
The likes of Murray and Mettenberger will be easily forgotten at next month's NFL Scouting Combine, where healthy quarterbacks will put their physical skills to the test. They'll provide depth at the position in the draft, however, and figure to be the answer for clubs intent on picking a quarterback, but with no intention of spending a first-round pick on one.
Murray got a head start on Mettenberger in the rehab process and told College Football 24/7 at the Senior Bowl about his various rehab triumphs to date. He expects to be ready for Georgia's pro-day workout in the spring.
It's unclear when, if, or to what extent Mettenberger (6-5, 235 pounds) will be able to work out for scouts before the draft. NFL Media analyst Bucky Brooks is among many who are intrigued by Mettenberger's potential.
Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter @ChaseGoodbread.
