2022 NFL DRAFT PROSPECT REPORT
- Name: Nick Starkel
- Position: Quarterback
- School: San Jose State
- Height: 6'3"
- Weight: 216lbs
Film Watched: Southern Utah 2021, UNLV 2020, New Mexico 2020
Pro's:
- Tall, lean quarterback with a big arm that loves to attack downfield
- Aggressive with the football – almost gunslinger mentality, unafraid to challenge DB’s
- Ball comes out with plenty of velocity to all levels of the field
- Intermediate sideline passes thrown to back shoulder, away from the defender
- Experienced QB who has seen it all at the line of scrimmage for three different teams
- Able to diagnose defenses pre-snap, adjust progression priority as suited
- Works through his progressions well, and checkdowns nicely when the heat comes
- Climbs the pocket well to remain in structure and deliver the football
Con's:
- Limited to little athleticism; might move the chains with his legs once in a while, but little else
- Accuracy concerns on deep passes – ball has the legs but often drop wide of the target
- Repeated danger throws downfield – really relied on his big receivers to come down with the ball
- Would like a wider stance as he throws, particularly with his lean physique
- Interception machine, usually as a result of taking one too many chances in tight windows
- Acknowledges outside rushers but blind to interior pressure, resulting in unnecessary sacks
The Verdict:
“Did The Spartans just catch lightning in a bottle in 2020, or is Nick Starkel a toolsy NFL prospect with all the measurables to be a quintessential pocket passer? There is no doubt that the nomadic quarterback’s arrival in San Jose was a big catalyst in the success of the program, culminating in them winning the Mountain West for the first time in their history. A live arm and the aggression to use it, Starkel finally found a home after stints with both Texas A&M and Arkansas ended in him being benched for Kellen Mond and KJ Jefferson respectively. Questionable decision making and an uncontrollable urge to force the football makes him a day three risk at best, but I can see at least one NFL team believing they are able to rein him in a little and take advantage of his undoubted physical skillset.”
Simon Carroll
Head Of NFL Draft Content
NFL COMPARISON: JOE FLACCO
PREDICTION: 7TH ROUND PICK
Rated 5 out of 5