The Post’s Ryan Dunleavy has named the top 10 quarterbacks in this year’s NFL Draft based on evaluations and conversations with league officials.
A “franchise changer” with playmaking that goes against the script with a variety of arm angles, reminiscent of Patrick Mahomes. Good decision maker and quick RPO.
Look for chunk gains, not checkdowns.
When the USC defense gives up fewer than 34 points, they are undefeated. He had 33 fumbles.
He’s not your stereotypical quarterback personality.
During his 2023 Heisman Trophy-winning season, he had 34 touchdowns on passes of 15 yards or more and zero interceptions.
The fifth-year starter showed pre- and post-snap command. The runners are slippery, but the slight frame makes durability a concern.
Is he approaching the ceiling?
Cue the Lamar Jackson comparison.
3. Drake May, North Carolina, 6-4, 223 pounds
The size and sound of the prototype are also notable. Comparisons to Justin Herbert in terms of his arm talent.
He took a step back in 2023, but was it because of his own flaws or the weaknesses of his supporting cast?
Too many sacks considering his scrambling ability.
Elements of boom and bust.
4. JJ McCarthy, Michigan State, 6-2, 219 pounds
As the national champion continues to explode, prospects are divided as he has been asked to do little more than be efficient.
Scouts like “winners”, but was he the reason?
Fit pitches into a tight time frame, but his game is to be sound, calm, smart, and on time.
5. Michael Penix Jr., Washington, 6-2, 216 pounds.
He suffered four injuries (two ACL tears, both shoulders) before the end of the season, followed by back-to-back electric seasons.
Will he be physically able to withstand it?
A pocket passer who makes deep throws look easy, but misses too many gimbs.
The three-quarter angle of his arms isn’t for everyone. Radiates strength and nerve of steel.
6. Bo Nix, Oregon State, 6-2, 214 pounds
He played in 61 career games as a quarterback, ranking in the top six in passing yards and total touchdowns, according to NCAA records.
He was a four-time captain and won the Campbell Trophy (Academic Heisman). Highly accurate rhythm passer.
Lick it to show its toughness.
Oregon’s offense relies on catch-and-release throws, so they rarely get past leads.
7. Spencer Rattler, South Carolina, 6-0, 211 pounds.
A former top player who was considered to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 draft.
He transferred from Oklahoma, where he had an inexperienced reputation, after losing the starting job to Caleb Williams.
Flashes of inconsistent shine. Throw with high expectations.
Determine the line between aggressive and reckless.
8. Joe Milton III, Tennessee, 6-5, 235 pounds.
Did you see him drop that 70-yard floater at the NFL Combine?
Or will he clock a quarterback-best 62 mph fastball? I wish his accuracy was this impressive.
A rare athlete, he completed just 38 percent of his throws of 10 yards or more in 2023, according to Pro Football Focus.
9. Devin Leary, Kentucky, 6-1, 215 pounds.
Those numbers have been on the decline since his 2021 35-touchdown, five-interception season at North Carolina State. He has a big arm, but he also has the ability to make multiple throws. Sell play action fakes. He suffered two injuries (shoulder and leg) before the end of the season. He will be a 25 year old rookie.
10. Jordan Travis, Florida State, 6-1, 200 pounds.
He will reportedly be fully examined by OTAs after breaking his foot in November. Escapeability is key to staying calm under pressure and ball security (two turnovers in 2023). Sometimes the ball arrives too late – as if you can’t believe your eyes.
top class
Oversleeping in the morning
JJ McCarthy, Michigan State: The consensus floor is No. 6 and could move up to No. 2 overall.
His best games were two of his last three, and he wowed during his pre-draft interview.
Former coach Jim Harbaugh is his biggest cheerleader.
fall rapidly
Bo Nix, Oregon: One scout said his first-round performance is “forced” by big intangibles.
In so many games, there are very few instances where he stares down pocket pressure and allows the play to develop.
If Sean Payton’s Broncos don’t finish at No. 12, they could face a drop like Will Levis.
the wonders of a small school
Michael Pratt, Tulane, 6-2, 217: The fourth-year starter has 90 touchdown passes and 28 rushing touchdowns.
A smart distributor who rarely puts the ball in danger but doesn’t pile up big plays.
Excellent arm strength all the way to the sideline. Delivery may take too long.
