Joe Burrow, Quarterback, LSU
Year: Redshirt Senior | Height: 6-3 ½ | Weight: 221 | DNP at Combine
Strengths:
An extremely polished passer who has shown he can make every NFL throw to all levels of the field with pinpoint accuracy and excellent touch/ball placement.
Consistently demonstrates elite football intelligence and has an exceptional understanding of pre-snap reads, coverage rotations, leverage and spacing. Very good pocket presence and has an incredible ability to sense pressure from all directions and move effectively within the pocket. One of the best anticipatory throwers to come out in a while; frequently leads his receivers away from coverage and into post-catch opportunities. Accuracy on the run is also tremendous to all parts of the field.
Footwork, even under pressure, always seems to be clean and calm – keeping his eyes downfield, moving within the pocket, eluding rushers and keeping plays alive without putting his team in bad spots. Mechanics are very clean with an exceptionally quick release.
Takes care of the football whilst still being extremely aggressive and making big time throws to all levels of the field. Has shown he can consistently stick a throw knowing he’s going to take a big hit. Appears to have the necessary leadership traits and intangibles to become a respected leader in the NFL and the face of a franchise.
Weaknesses:
Burrow doesn’t have any physical traits that would be considered elite – while his arm strength and mobility are certainly serviceable, he does lose some noticeable velocity on throws on the run and is definitely not a rushing threat. Footwork can be a bit lazy sometimes.
Many including myself are concerned about such a sudden leap in production in one year and question whether the addition of Joe Brady is responsible for some of Burrow’s success. Another minor gripe is that he will turn 24 in his rookie season but given his polish and consistency against elite competition, it is of little concern.
Player Summary:
Coming off possibly the greatest single season in college football history, Joe Burrow features a high-level skill set with the makeup of being a dynamic franchise quarterback. His blend of accuracy, ability to handle pressure, mechanics and mental processing skills are all bluechip traits that make him NFL ready in Year One. Burrow may lack elite throwing power, but it’s a minor knock in an overall impressive package.
Best Trait: Football IQ | Worst Trait: Arm Strength
Red Flags: Only One Year of Elite Production
Best Role/Scheme Fit: Balanced – Can improvise if need be in the pocket and make a few plays on his feet, but won’t have many designed QB runs.
Player Comparison: Tony Romo
Final Grade: 92.9 | Round Grade: Top 5 Pick
QB Rank: QB-2 | Overall Rank: 5