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Photo of Nathan Brown
Grade
?
  • 5.00 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 30.5 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 106.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 7.45 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.44 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 6'1" Height
  • 219LBS. Weight

Overview

Brown's lack of height is exaggerated by a three-quarter delivery, but scouts can't argue with his production. He leaves Central Arkansas as the only quarterback in the history of the state's collegiate football action to throw for more than 10,000 yards (10,558) and 100 career touchdowns.

The Southland Conference Offensive Player of the Year in 2007 and overall Player of the Year in 2008, Brown completed 68 percent of his passes with a sparkling touchdown-to-interception ratio of 57-14. His production was enough to earn a shot at the Senior Bowl, the first UCA Bear to ever be invited to Mobile.

Though a bit inconsistent, Brown helped his cause with a solid week of practice while showing improvement throughout. He completed 9 of 15 passes for 92 yards and the North's only touchdown to finish as the game's highest-rated passer.

His throwing motion and ability to make plays on the run reminds scouts of Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo's early days at Eastern Illinois. Had an arm span of 30 3/4 inches and a hand span of 9 inches at the combine.

Analysis

Strengths

Positives: Cerebral quarterback who reads defenses well and rarely throws into coverage. Quick set up and delivery. Good overall accuracy, especially on short and intermediate routes. Hits the receiver in stride, allowing his target to make yards after the catch. Has a solid arm which should be strong enough to make all of the NFL throws. Provides at least adequate zip and trajectory on his longer throws to avoid defenders. Good mobility in the pocket, and is able to escape trouble. Can reset to make a throw or throw on the run with accuracy. Also picks up first downs with his feet. Owns the good character and leadership skills needed for the quarterback position. Proved able to handle a significant jump in competition with his play at the Senior Bowl. Negatives: A bit undersized at a shade under 6-feet-1, 217 pounds. Motion is a bit sidearm, giving him a lower release point which will need to be corrected at the next level so his passes aren't batted down at the line. Must prove he can handle the speed of NFL defenses coming from a lower level of competition.
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Grade Title Draft (Round) Description
96-100 Future Hall of Famer Top Pick A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95 Immediate Starter 1st An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84 Eventual Starter 2nd-3rd A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69 Draftable Player 4th-7th A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49 Free Agent UDFA A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.

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