[redtuna]

It is frequently pointed out that high first round qbs have a much greater success rate than 4th or 5th rounders. One reason for that is teams give first rounders more opportunities(second and third chances) to succeed.
Alex Smith was the first pick in 2005. If he were a 4th round pick,he would have been gone by 2008.He wouldn't be around for a successful 2011 season with San Francisco.
If Jake Locker were a 4th rounder in 2011, he would be gone. The same with Sam Bradford. He had one good year followed by mediocre years, but management doesn't want to admit a mistake.

[slacker00]

With the lower rookie salaries, teams are pulling the plug faster. Look at Gabbert.