6’4” – 225 lbs.
Still relatively new to the position; began his high school career as a wide receiver. Redshirted in his first season, then started the final six of twelve games played the following year, passing for 1,631 yards (54.9%), eight touchdowns, and six interceptions. Took over the starting job the following year, finishing with 3,567 yards (64.0%), 32 touchdowns, and six interceptions. Regressed last season under new offensive coordinator Mike Sanford Jr. (3,402 yards at 61.9%, 20 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions), but decided to declare for the draft. Despite changing coordinators, the scheme at Utah St. was almost the same in both 2018 and 2019; a simple high-tempo, vertical-passing-heavy, spread-option scheme installed by David Yost and influenced by his time under Gary Pinkel, Mike Leach, and Mark Helfrich. Has prototypical size and bulk for a pro quarterback. Was making a lot of predetermined reads off of play-action or in the shotgun, sometimes without any dropback whatsoever, although he flashes the ability to scan for second or third options at times. One of the most naturally gifted throwers in this year’s class. Has a quick three-quarters release with the ability to flick the ball downfield easily, spinning a tight spiral and getting impressive velocity on his throws. Knows how to take something off of his throws; touch passer on rhythm-based and shorter throws, with the ability to drop balls into buckets downfield as well. Ball placement can be inconsistent; part of the reason his completion percentage took a hit this past year was because the team transitioned from bigger possession receivers to speedier personnel with drop issues, but also sails some deeper passes or throws behind receivers on shorter throws. Attempts too many passes off of his back foot, bouncing passes in front of receivers or struggling to get the velocity he needs. Threw a lot of interceptions last season and can occasionally get too confident in his arm, causing him to attempt risky throws into tight coverage. Tendency to bird-dog. Capable of escaping from pressure and extending the play, typically fleeing to his right and flashing the ability to pick up first downs with his feet. Carried the ball on designed runs and options at times and demonstrates solid athleticism, although it would be nice to see him protect his body more; too willing to lower his shoulder and fight for extra yards, causing him to take a real beating. Could go as high as the first round because of the combination of size, arm talent, touch, and mobility he offers, but is very much a boom-or-bust type of prospect who comes from a simple scheme and needs to improve his technique and decision-making in order to succeed. Somewhat similar to Drew Lock, who slipped into the second round last season for similar reasons.
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