Justin Herbert:
+ outstanding arm talent - flat footed 62 yard throw at pro day
+ very athletic, can hurt you on the move both throwing and running
+ cerebral, works progressions standing tall, reads defenses has a plan
+ excellent against pressure 11 tds to 0 picks against the blitz
+ quick throwing process, keeps very good balance and has quick feet like a much smaller guy.
+ clear development curve, improving
+ can adjust his arm to whatever angle is needed to get the ball out on target.
+ Well suited for a vertical passing attack
+ excellent deep accuracy
+ can hit ridiculously small windows. Even the toughest NFL throws
+ outstanding play action - better than many pros
- Played primarily in the pistol, NFL concepts but will be an adjustment, Duck offense was a poor fit for his skillset, wr’s were not very good but bonus for getting used to NFL windows
- Shows some issues putting touch on the ball, too much juice
- Inconsistent ball placement. Throws open great, but gets behind on shorter passes
- Does a ball spin after getting the snap. Slows his ability to get the ball out on quick hitters which leads to rushed off target throws
- Needs to learn to throw without the laces if needed on quick hitters
- Will need to learn to put more loft on the ball at next level to keep defenders hands off the ball
- Although he’s awesome in the face of pressure, he hangs in too long at times when he should have bailed.
- His future could be very dependent on the situation he lands in.
- Shouldn’t start year one, best served learning
Overall, Herbert is one of the better prospects I’ve ever reviewed, hence the more in depth analysis. He has all the tools, but needs more seasoning. Reportedly didn’t have QB coaching during HS. Didn’t attend a football QB camp until well into college. Biggest question mark for me is how he handles adversity/mental makeup.
NFL Comparison: Aaron Rodgers. Top 10 talent
- if he falls like Rodgers, I expect we’ll pass and take Erasmus James again.