2022 NFL DRAFT PROSPECT REPORT
- Name: Kaleb Eleby
- Position: Quarterback
- School: Western Michigan
- Height: 6'1"
- Weight: 210lbs
Film Watched: Pitt 2021, Toledo 2020, Akron 2020
Pro's:
- Big-time arm; can hit any area of the field, off any platform
- Ball flies off his fingers with impressive velocity – short release sees the ball come out quick
- Demonstrates excellent touch on most passes, including the deep ball
- Able to adjust throwing motion to avoid immediate pressure
- Throws with anticipation, often letting loose before his receiver is out of his break
- Intuitive pocket mover, slides and climbs naturally to buy time and deliver the football
- Shows good pre-snap recognition of defensive formations & advantageous matchups
- Absolute baller – performances got better against bigger opponents (Michigan, Pitt)
- Natural leader whose composure under duress or in adversity rubs off on his teammates
Con's:
- Slightly shorter than desired for the NFL. Stout frame looks capable of adding needed body mass
- Underwhelming athleticism – is not a running threat, and scrambling ability is modest
- Operated almost exclusively out of the shotgun at Kalamazoo – potential transition growing pains
- Benefited from a lot of short, manufactured backfield/shallow passes with good YAC potential
- Not asked to work through a full slate of progressions often – plenty of half-field reads
- Lower half body mechanics need addressing; lazy footwork & throws from inconsistent base
The Verdict:
“Kaleb Eleby reminds me so much of Philip Rivers it is unreal. A pocket passer with limited mobility but shifty enough to operate a vulnerable pocket, Eleby keeps his eyes downfield and throws with impeccable timing and accuracy. A rhythm passer who is difficult to stop when he gets going, NFL scouts will love the short , rapid throwing motion and how he leads the receiver into open space. In the modern pro game, Eleby’s draft stock may well be limited as teams look for an athletic quarterback capable of punishing sleeping defenses on the ground - something the former Bronco doesn’t have in his arsenal. There’ll be more asked of him mentally if he’s put in a traditional pro offense, but whilst that may slow his ascension his other smarts suggest he should be capable of such a transition. In a relatively weak QB class, Eleby might be the early day three pick that surprises everyone - there’s starter potential here.”
Simon Carroll
Head Of NFL Draft Content
NFL COMPARISON: PHILIP RIVERS
PREDICTION: FOURTH ROUND PICK
5/5