Jimmy Clausen Scouting Report

Jimmy Clausen is, quiet possible, the best pure drop back passer in the nation. Highly touted out of high school, the 6-foot-2 passer took the Notre Dame starting QB job in his second game as a true freshman. He went on to start nine games in 2007, throwing for 1,254 yards with a 56.3 completition percentage (138-245) and a 7-6 touchdown-interception ratio. The numbers are not mind-boggling, but put them with a visibly weak offensive line, a lackluster running attack and almost no speed outside, and they are a testament to his ability. Clausen had a breakthrough sophomore campaign in 2008, when he passed for 3,172 yards, completing 60.9% (268-440) of his passes with an impressive 25-17 TD/INT ratio. Right now, he is having perhaps the best season an Irish signal caller has had since Brady Quinn's junior campaign in 2007.

A purely pocket passer with an above-average arm strength, Clausen has efficient footwork and depth on his drop from center. An efficient setup and over the top delivery motion, make him capable of making every NFL throw, including his specialty: the deep ball. Clausen consistently releases his passes before receivers have made their breaks, giving the defense little time to react. He reads defenses well and rarely is fooled by disguised coverage. Very accurate in the medium-to-long range area, this is a coveted trait in the NFL.

However, he does need to improve the speed of his delivery on quick, short passes, as they are a bit slow. He is not a threat to run out of the pocket. Even though he has added bulk over the last two years, he could still use extra lower body strength. Clausen also needs to learn to do a better job taking control of the huddle, and work work on short passes down the middle.

Clausen is one of the hottest commodities in NFL Draft circles. His stock is rising fast, similar to what happened to USC's Mark Sanchez last year. He is not the athlete Sanchez is, but he is every bit as good. He also shares another trait with the former Trojan star: a flair for playing the position. Clausen is a lock to be a top five pick if he, as expected, comes out early. He should develop into a consistent pro passer.