2023 BCS QB Scouting Report
Player: Jake Haener
School: Fresno State
Year: (RS) Senior
Games Watched: Oregon (2021), UCLA (2021), Hawaii (2021), Oregon State (2022), USC (2022), Hawaii (2022), Washington State (2022)
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Accuracy: Ability to recognize coverage and anticipate how it’s unfolding allows him to play pitch-and-catch against zone. Consistently throws within rhythm to maximize yards after the catch. Maintaining accuracy in a confined pocket has been inconsistent. Three seasons as a starter with an Adjusted Completion Percentage of 72% or higher.
Arm Strength: Loose arm propels the ball out quickly and allows him to find receivers when off-platform. Will struggle to stick throws into tight windows at the next level and regularly attack field-side.
Size: Shorter, thinner-framed passer whose sustainability will be something to monitor at the next level. His shorter stature also contributes to a lower arm slot upon delivery.
Mobility: Athleticism is present in his ability to evade pressure in the pocket and generate offense as a ball carrier. Can maintain placement when on the move.
Decision Making: Impressive production over the last three seasons is aided by his propensity to protect the ball. Had a lower percentage of Turnover Worthy Plays via PFF.
Out of Structure Ability: Improvisational capabilities create success outside of structure with his ability to complete throws late in the down.
Pocket Awareness: Has an understanding of where his exit points and how pressure is developing around him, but there were more reps than desired of him drifting into pressure or bailing prematurely for an older player.
Touch/Placement: Shows the ability to layer intermediate throws with the right blend of touch velocity, allowing for optimal run-after-the-catch opportunities. Deep shots have enough arc and pace for receivers to run underneath.
Upper/Lower Mechanics: Drops need to tighten to maintain an improved throw-ready base, creating a multitude of timing and accuracy issues when trying to attack down the field. Generates adequate power despite him being more linear than rotational, could be a result of his injuries.
Progressions: Scheme created ample space for him, but the ability to quickly process the heavy amount of field-side reads is there. Has cut down on the number of reps in which he brought the opposite safety into the play each season.
Accuracy (15): 11
Arm Strength (10): 6.5
Size (5): 3
Mobility (10): 6
Decision Making (10): 7
Out of Structure Ability (10): 6
Pocket Awareness (10): 7
Touch/Placement (10): 7
Upper/Lower Mechanics (10): 6
Progressions (10): 6.5
Grade: 66/100 – Late Day 2
Summary: Haener’s return from an injury in 2022 played a major role in their 9-game win streak to finish the season. Though he’s tough and competitive, Haener has dealt with hip and high-ankle sprain ailments across the last two seasons that teams will be keen on cross-referencing considering his physical stature at the next level. Haener grades as a third-rounder though passers with his skillset and physical profile are generally popular on Day Three, so a strong showing at the Senior Bowl and whatever combination of NFL Combine/Pro Day he elects to participate in have a chance to elevate him into an early Day 3 pick.
Report Author: T.J. Randall
Twitter: @TJ_Randall12