2023 NFL DRAFT PROSPECT REPORT
- Name: Sean Clifford
- Position: Quarterback
- School: Penn State
- Height: 6'2"
- Weight: 217lbs
Film Watched: Buffalo 2019, Ohio State 2020, Michigan 2021
Pro's:
- Experienced quarterback unafraid to work out of structure
- Well respected team leader – been a captain ever since he was named QB1
- Plus athleticism and can punish defenses with his legs
- Good zip on the football, and can gun it in when needed
- Shows good timing, particularly on mesh concepts across the middle of the field
- Confident leaving the pocket and throwing on the move
- Accomplished in the RPO game
- Trusted by coaches to adjust protections and change plays at the line of scrimmage
Con's:
- Inconsistent accuracy, particularly outside the numbers
- Steady stream of talented receivers have routinely gotten him out of trouble
- Misjudges coverage zones and puts possession in peril – 31 picks in Penn State career
- Panics under pocket pressure, making regrettable decisions
- Fair chunk of production involved simple passes to playmakers in space
The Verdict:
“Penn State has been a solid if unspectacular football program the past few years, and that might be the best way to describe Sean Clifford. A consummate professional in his approach to his duties, Clifford has earned recognition from James Franklin and his coaches for his maturity and leadership, but when it comes down to it there’s little nuance to his game that suggests a serious NFL career is in the offing. The Nittany Lions have left countless yards on the field thanks to his inability to lead a bunch of receivers that are now playing at the next level. Clifford looks competent doing the simple things, but falls short when the onus is on him to elevate the offense in big spots. Landing somewhere for training camp is likely, but sticking on a roster come Week 1 is anything but.”
Simon Carroll
Head Of NFL Draft Content
NFL COMPARISON: BRIAN LEWERKE
PREDICTION: UDFA
Rated 5 out of 5