QB SCOUTING REPORTS - qb4 baker mayfield, oklahoma

Truly one of the legendary stories in college football history, Baker Mayfield walked-on and won the starting job at two separate Big 12 programs over the course of his illustrious career. He is believed to be the first freshman walk-on to ever start a season opener at QB for a Power 5 school. After transferring from Texas Tech, Mayfield excelled at Oklahoma and this past season became the first senior QB to win the Heisman Trophy since Troy Smith did it in 2004. His small stature and record of unpredictable behavior both on and off the field have made him arguably the most controversial and debated player in the entire draft.

PROS

Major strength falls in arguably the most important QB evaluation category: accuracy in the short and medium range passing game. Remarkably posted completion percentages above 70% in each of his final two collegiate seasons. Undeniable “it” factor as a playmaker and freewheeling improvisor who relies on feel and instinct over form and mechanics in his game. Gifted touch passer with a talent for judging proper pass trajectories to drop throws in behind linebackers and corners. Surprisingly impressive and more than NFL-adequate velocity on short and intermediate throws. Demonstrated very fast post-snap processing speed and consistent mastery of quick release passes to the flats, play action pop passes over the middle of the field, run/pass option plays and read option runs. Has the ability to extend plays and complete off-schedule passes from outside the pocket and on the move. Handled a heavy passing load in college. Has the competitive drive and experience to attack an NFL opportunity with aggressiveness and confidence.

CONS

Horrible lower body mechanics and footwork. Makes far too many arm throws and back-footed tosses for the next level. Sets his feet correctly and on rhythm for the pass shockingly rarely. Struggles to generate enough lower body power to drive the ball down the field with consistent success/accuracy, especially when throwing into space over the top of the secondary. Accuracy and velocity on short and intermediate throws can also be compromised by his footwork issues. Size and frame are not ideal. Frequent use of low arm angles makes him prone to swatted balls. Struggled at times with reading defenses in the post snap on multi-read progression plays from the pocket. Prefers college-style one-or-two-read pass plays. Plays emotionally hot and cold and is prone to some questionable decision making on and off the field.

VERDICT

While it’s always an uphill battle for undersized QBs in the pros, recent success for players like Russell Wilson, Drew Brees, Case Keenum, Tyrod Taylor and Dak Prescott suggests that there is a place for Mayfield as a starter in the NFL. However, one commonality among successful small QBs is consistent accuracy and excellent mechanics. Mayfield certainly has a base to build on, but he will have to hone those particular skills in a big way to become a long-term NFL starter. Like Dak Prescott, the environment Mayfield lands in will likely wind up a crucial factor in whether or not he succeeds, as he will need strong protection and an offense that plays to his strengths.

PROSPECT COMPS

Tyrod Taylor, Johnny Manziel

GRADE

MID/LATE FIRST