We are just days away from the NFL Draft so that means experts, as well as executives, are starting to ramp up their analysis of players that will garner the most attention.
An NFC executive has some high praise for an incoming quarterback that raised several eyebrows.
The NFC executive told NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero that former Fresno State QB Jake Haener has some Drew Brees to him.
“He’s got some gamer to him, he’s accurate — he just doesn’t have a big arm. But he’s got a little Drew Brees to him,” an NFC executive said. “The ball’s going to come out. He knows where he’s going with it. He’s just not a big person (5-11 5/8, 207 pounds), so can he hold up?”
Brees was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft but he would make his name after signing with the New Orleans Saints, where he spent the majority of his career. He quickly became the face of the franchise and led the team to unprecedented success. He helped the Saints win their first-ever Super Bowl victory and be named the MVP.
He was also named the NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 2008 and 2011, and was selected to the Pro Bowl 13 times.
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Brees retired from the NFL in 2021, after 20 seasons in the league.
Haener started his college career at the University of Washington, where he played for two seasons as a backup quarterback behind Jacob Eason. He played in six games during his freshman year, completing 9 of 13 passes for 107 yards and one touchdown. During his sophomore year, he played in four games, completing 9 of 13 passes for 81 yards and one touchdown.
Things got better for him in 2020 when he transferred to Fresno State, where he became the starting quarterback. He had an outstanding season, throwing for 2,021 yards and 14 touchdowns in just six games. He also had a completion percentage of 64.7% and a passer rating of 162.1. He was named the Mountain West Offensive Player of the Week twice and was a finalist for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
Haener’s success continued in 2021, as he led Fresno State to a 9-3 record and a victory in the LA Bowl. He threw for 4,096 yards and 33 touchdowns, while completing 67.1% of his passes and earning a passer rating of 164.3. He was named the Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year and was a finalist for the Walter Camp Award, given to the top player in college football.
Haener is known for his accuracy, decision-making, and leadership in the field. He has also been praised for his toughness and resilience
