2016 NFL Draft Scouting Notes: Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State

2016 NFL Draft Scouting Notes: Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State

By Lijah Spencer

Over the course of the next few weeks I will be giving you my scouting notes for some of the top rated prospects for next year’s NFL draft. These notes are based off from last year’s film, and will precede the full scouting report which will come after I watch film from the new season. First up is a player who is widely thought of as maybe the top QB prospect

Christian Hackenberg. QB 6’4 220 lbs Penn St

Hackenberg is a redshirt Junior, so he may or may not enter the draft, but if he does he has a chance to be one of the top picks in the draft. Hackenberg started his college career very strong, but after some coaching changes he did take a step back last season.

http://youtu.be/z8vGqCWT2M4

The Positives

1) NFL size. At 6’4 220 lbs, he is the prototypical pocket passer.

2) Strong arm. He has the ability to make all of the NFL throws.

3) Ability to make the right reads.

The Negatives

1) Inconsistent accuracy, usually due to lack of squaring hips and setting feet. Both fundamentals that can be cleaned up.

2) Stands flat footed in the pocket. Lacks the bounce that lets him set and release quickly and accurately.

3) Often leads his receivers into the defender, which in the NFL will eventually lead to someone getting injured.

4) At times takes chances throwing into coverage.

What kind of season he has this year, and how he cleans up his fundamentals will go a long way towards deciding how high he is drafted. Hackenberg has all the tools, but right now is a flawed QB. It will be interesting to watch how he develops.