Trace McSorley – Quarterback
School: Penn State University
Class: Senior
Height: 6’0
Weight: 201
Trace McSorley NFL Draft Profile
Top 3 Player Traits
Running Ability
In the run game, McSorley is special due to his very good speed for the position. McSorley has the ability to straight up outrun defenders, which he combines with good power for his size. He has a smooth-running style which allows him to run the read option, which should translate to the next level.
McSorley also has natural vision as a runner and can use his smaller size to squeak through smaller running lanes. However, Trace McSorley’s lack of size dictates that he will need to learn to protect himself, as he will have to abandon his fearless running style. On the play below, McSorley combines vision, speed, and quickness to score a rushing touchdown.
Leadership
McSorley’s overall toughness and leadership shined during this past season, as his swinging gate offensive line allowed him to take numerous hits and physical punishment. This resulted in a sprained knee which hampered him for the latter part of the season. Specifically, in Penn State’s bowl game, McSorley got hit low and seemed to be seriously injured. Visibly in excruciating pain on the sideline, McSorley was quickly ruled out with a broken foot. Stunningly, McSorley missed only one series and came back in the game to lead his team on a ferocious comeback. McSorley was named team captain for the past two seasons, and former teammates continue to praise his leadership.
Anticipation
Trace McSorley made some big anticipation throws during the Ohio State game and his clutch production has shined in big-time games. Coach James Franklin usually puts the ball in McSorley’s hands when the game is on the line. Though comically, during the biggest play of the game on a fourth down, Franklin decided a run play was the best play call. During the last drive of that game, McSorley makes a perfect anticipation throw down the seam to his tight end. It’s throws like these, that show the upside Trace McSorley has.
3 Player Traits In Need of Improvement
Arm Talent
Unfortunately for Trace McSorley, arm talent isn’t really a trait that can be specifically improved. Below is a perfect example of what I explained above. He scans the field perfectly, makes the right read, but just misses the throw. It is exactly what you want to see out of an NFL QB, the right things were done but the last part was not executed. I believe this happens because he rushes this part of the process and his arm just doesn’t have the all together talent for it to be easy for him.
Size
This is another area that Trace McSorley has no control over. No matter what, some NFL teams are going to have issues with his overall size, especially in that way he runs the ball. McSorley never really seemed to have an issue with tipped passes, but his size became a factor when trying to find open targets, and will be an issue if he is asked to play under center at the next level. Quarterbacks with Trace McSorley’s smarts can overcome something like this, but nonetheless, it is a downside.
Anticipation Of Pass Rush
Trace McSorley needs to improve his anticipation of the rush. This leads to him rushing his throws, which can lead to interceptions. Even when McSorley doesn’t feel the rush, he needs to do a better job of not forcing these types of throws.
NFL Team Fits
This seems like a very good fit for Trace McSorley. Being able to learn from Kirk Cousins, and develop behind him might be extremely good for the cerebral McSorley. This may be the most ideal landing spot for Trace McSorley.
Seattle Seahawks
A team who has been looking for a solid backup QB for quite some time now, McSorley fits this team as well. Trace McSorley has some of the traits that make Russell Wilson a great quarterback, so sitting and learning from one of the better play-makers in the league could do McSorley wonders.
Round Projection
Round 6-7