Behren Morton sparks NFL draft intrigue as Texas Tech quarterback showcases impressive arm talent
The world of Draft Twitter can be a tricky landscape. The notion of “discovering” a prospect is often an illusion; by the time highlights circulate, the NFL has typically already taken note. Consequently, the stock of prospects tends to fluctuate less dramatically than our discussions might suggest. However, every so often, a player emerges seemingly out of nowhere, capturing the attention of fans and scouts alike. While their impact on NFL teams may not be immediate, these players can quickly gain traction on social media, becoming key talking points in the lead-up to the draft.
At the forefront of this buzz is Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton, who recently garnered attention thanks to a glowing analysis from The Athletic’s Dane Brugler.
Morton catches the eye of scouts
In his Week 3 recap, Brugler spotlighted Morton, praising two standout throws that showcased both his arm talent and footwork. While Brugler refrained from predicting a Day 1 selection or claiming a victory for identifying an underrated prospect, his endorsement is significant. When a respected figure in draft analysis highlights a player who deserves more recognition, it triggers a chain reaction. Analysts, fans, and scouts alike begin to review the tape, leading to a surge of opinions regarding the quarterback’s potential.
Morton’s impressive skills have led to increased scrutiny. Observers are keen to see how he performs as the season unfolds.
Analyzing Morton’s skill set
Turning my attention to Morton, it’s evident he possesses a dynamic arm and sufficient accuracy to warrant consideration as a starting quarterback. His athleticism allows him to extend plays outside the pocket, contributing to Texas Tech’s ground game.
Mechanically, Morton displays clean footwork, rapid arm speed, and the ability to maintain accuracy from different arm angles. Within the structure of a play, he processes the field effectively and makes sound decisions, demonstrating a willingness to push the ball downfield.
Yet, despite the flashes of brilliance, there are aspects of Morton’s game that raise concerns. His pocket presence can be shaky, and his decision-making often falters under pressure. As it stands, Morton appears to be an early Day 3 prospect with significant room for development as conference play advances.
Comparative prospects in the quarterback landscape
Among other quarterbacks drawing interest is Oregon’s Dante Moore. He has made the necessary NFL-caliber throws early in the season, justifying the hype surrounding him. With upcoming matchups against Penn State and Indiana, Ducks fans will soon witness how Moore handles challenging situations.
Moore’s accuracy is commendable, and he excels at layering his throws, even in high-pressure scenarios. His decision-making is reliable, making him a strong fit for offenses that prioritize progression. He isn’t afraid to absorb hits to deliver passes and maintains composure when plays break down, contributing to a fluid offensive rhythm.
While Moore possesses above-average physical tools, they don’t quite reach elite levels. As a scrambler, he can evade pressure but lacks the game-changing speed that transforms a quarterback into a dual-threat. Nonetheless, his skill set places him in early-round discussions, albeit without the highest ceiling among his peers.
Late-round options emerge
In contrast, Diego Pavia from Vanderbilt is vying for late-round consideration. Although he has led the Commodores to competitive performances in the SEC, his skill set seems reminiscent of Trace McSorley, raising questions about his draft viability. Pavia thrives in an option-heavy offense, with the ability to utilize his legs effectively, yet his limited arm strength and timing issues raise concerns about his performance in a structured passing game.
While he occasionally makes plays outside the pocket, his tendency to create turnovers may hinder his draft stock.
Baylor’s Sawyer Robertson shines in the Big 12
Meanwhile, Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson has been making waves in the Big 12. Currently leading the conference in completions, attempts, and passing yards, he has proven to be a formidable presence on the field. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 220 pounds, Robertson has the physical attributes that often appeal to NFL teams.
He possesses a strong arm and is not shy about testing defensive backs downfield. His willingness to attempt challenging throws, even against complex coverages, has provided him with valuable experience. Senior quarterbacks are increasingly appreciated in the NFL, and Robertson is notably more polished than many underclassmen.
However, accuracy remains a concern. His inconsistency in hitting routine throws could prevent him from being a first-round pick, but if he can refine this aspect of his game, his physical upside could prove enticing. Currently, Robertson is projected as a fringe Day 2/3 selection, with his measurables enhancing his appeal.
As the draft approaches, the landscape for quarterbacks remains dynamic, with players like Morton, Moore, Pavia, and Robertson each carving out their narratives. The intrigue surrounding their performances will undoubtedly shape perceptions and expectations as teams look to solidify their rosters for the future.
