Bradley Ylitalo’s Scouting Notebook: Updated Look at the Quarterback Class

Going into the 2017 NFL draft process, the quarterback situation was looking pretty dire. But after Deshaun Watson put up an outstanding Junior season, Patrick Mahomes continued to develop, and Mitchell Trubisky burst onto the scene, the class was saved. As draft day finally arrived, the once unheralded class saw Trubisky, Mahomes, and Watson all go in the top twelve as well as DeShone Kizer go in round two.

We’re going into week 15 of the NFL season and from what I’ve seen out of these young signal callers (Mahomes in preseason), I’m incredibly excited about their future. Sure, the wins aren’t necessarily there yet, but they’ve shown they can make plays at the NFL level. All of these young men have issues to address, but overall, I like how the very traits that made them high draft picks have transferred to their NFL skillsets.

Seeing how well the 2017 class has played and how good they might just become, it only helps increase the hype that should surround the 2018 class. Draft analysts and devy players have been salivating over Josh Rosen and Sam Darnold for quite some time now, but through this college season, we have seen the likes of Baker Mayfield and Mason Rudolph make major strides in their respective games. With multiple QBs graded out above my top QB in the 2017 class (Trubisky), I think this group can be extremely special. So enough talk, let’s get into some updated rankings!

Updated Quarterback Rankings

1) Josh Rosen, UCLA

The safer of the two elite signal callers, Josh Rosen is ready to be a legit contributor in year one. With no weaknesses to discuss except the fact that he isn’t going to make jaw-dropping plays with his feet, Rosen is exactly what you look for in an NFL pocket passer. Capable of making every throw on the field with a tremendous duo of mechanics and footwork, it’s hard to not see a bright future for Rosen.

Rosen’s footwork/pocket presence has been damn impressive this year! About to get hit, still steps in to throw and delivers a dart downfield! #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/6zFFO8ylow

— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) November 20, 2017

2) Sam Darnold, USC

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I’m not arguing with anyone who ranks Darnold over Rosen, in fact, splitting these two up was the most difficult part of these rankings. Combine Darnold’s release, accuracy, and pocket presence and you have yourself a potential game changer. Perhaps having the edge in upside but not so much in terms of floor, go with Darnold if you want a better chance at getting that elite QB1.

3) Josh Allen, Wyoming

Josh Allen isn’t exactly the kind of prospect that is going to step in on day one and turn around your franchise, but he is the kind of player who people could regret passing on for decades. With a release that makes me weak every time I see it and mobility to match his ideal frame, Allen has some tools that most QBs can’t dream of having. With definite drawbacks including decision making and footwork, only take the Cowboy if you’re willing to potentially strikeout while swinging for the fences.

4) Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma

Mayfield’s stock just continues to rise. Despite the attention spent on his antics on the field, he continues to be a player his teammates rally around when it matters most. Mix in that “Mayfield magic” with his very real NFL traits including arm strength and decision making and you have yourself one hell of an intriguing talent. While it would be undoubtedly a lot of fun to snag Mayfield in your rookie drafts, make sure you’re not overreaching because of his position and accolades.

Most QB’s don’t dare make this throw by the goal line, Mayfield isn’t bound by the same rules. #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter @Ian_Johnson16 pic.twitter.com/7nfUxUCVEi

— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) November 15, 2017

5) Mason Rudolph, Oklahoma State

After lighting the college football world on fire early in his senior campaign, the Rudolph talk quieted down to mere whispers as the season wore on. A player I see as a late first-round talent as we have reached December, Rudolph could find himself in a starting job when the 2018 season arrives. His footwork and pocket presence are both concerning for me, but my faith in his accuracy and mechanics outweigh the doubts.

6) Lamar Jackson, Louisville

Oddly enough to me, there are some who believe Jackson’s NFL future isn’t at the quarterback position. These beliefs about Jackson some people have aren’t nearly enough for me to consider him as anything but a QB, but I’d simply keep an eye on the situation. In terms of his quarterbacking talents? There’s a lot to like. With an absolutely insane combination of mobility and pocket presence, Jackson will be a nightmare to prepare for. I’m not in love with his pure arm talent, but I think there’s enough there where it shouldn’t limit him too much.

The very minute Lamar Jackson inks his rookie contract, he’ll be the most athletic quarterback in the national football league! #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/gIZkcKhmi9

— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) November 10, 2017

7) Luke Falk, Washington State

I’ve had Falk pegged as a late first round talent (pre-season) and a mid second round talent (early season) but as the picture becomes clearer and clearer, I think Falk fits nicely as an early second round pick. The RS Senior has accuracy that transcends your “normal quarterback” standards and does it with sound mechanics and terrific footwork in the pocket. His arm strength may limit his potential going forward, but Falk could easily become a solid starter.

8) Jarrett Stidham, Auburn

One of my favorite prospects in the entire class, I’ve seen massive improvement from Stidham in his first year with Auburn. There may not be any elite traits to write home about but on the flip side there aren’t any flaws that are too damaging to his overall game. With a good frame, sound mechanics, and adequate athletic ability, Stidham has the tools to make a name for himself.

Liking Jarrett Stidham more and more, this throw reminds me a lot of Jay Cutler! #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter @ryanylitalo pic.twitter.com/oLceCevIpJ

— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) November 20, 2017

9) Nick Fitzgerald, Mississippi State

Perhaps more of a project than the others on these rankings, Nick Fitzgerald may need some time and coaching to develop. The Bulldogs’ game is built on terrific athleticism, solid arm strength, and his massive 6’5, 230 lb frame. Think of Fitzgerald as a late-round flier to take a chance on in your drafts. If you feel good about your QB situation I would look elsewhere.

10) Will Grier, West Virginia

You don’t put up stats like Grier has by luck or by accident. This kid has some definite NFL level traits. He’s accurate even when his feet aren’t set, very adept at using his mobility, and consistently makes sound decisions running the Mountaineers offense. Both the length of his release and his arm strength are far from ideal, but Grier has a chance at becoming an impact player at the most important position in the game.

Well, that wraps up this week’s edition of “Bradley Ylitalo’s Scouting Notebook”, please leave a comment or question below. Feel free to shoot me a question on Twitter (@NFL_Drafthub), I’m always happy to interact with football fans. Be on the lookout for next week’s poll as to which fan question we will cover! See you next time!

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