FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at Oregon quarterback Bo Nix.

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2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report:  Bo Nix

Bo Nix (QB – Oregon)

6’2” – 217 lbs.

Background:

Five-star recruit (Rivals) who originally attended Auburn, where his father was also a starting quarterback. Spent three seasons as the starting quarterback there, leading the team to a 9-4 record as a true freshman. That year, he threw for 2,542 yards (57.6%, 6.7 YPA), sixteen touchdowns, and six interceptions, with 313 yards and seven scores on the ground. Went 6-5 the following year, with 2,415 yards (59.%, 6.8 YPA), twelve touchdowns, and seven interceptions, rushing for 388 yards and seven touchdowns. Went 6-4 in his final year there, with 2,294 yards (61.5%, 7.1 YPA), eleven touchdowns, and three interceptions, scoring four times on the ground as well. Transferred to Oregon for the 2022 season, sharply criticizing Auburn’s then-head coach Bryan Harsin on the way out. Went 10-3 with 3,593 yards (71.9%, 8.8 YPA), 29 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, with 89-510-14 rushing. Was even better this year, with an 11-2 record as of the time of writing and 4,145 yards (77.2%, 9.5 YPA), 40 touchdowns, and three interceptions, scoring six times on the ground.

Positives:

Five-year starter who really emerged as one of college football’s best quarterbacks after transferring to Oregon; now holds the all-time NCAA record for quarterback starts. Operates the Ducks’ rhythm-based passing game effectively, with good timing on quick throws. Able to work through progressions and find checkdowns. Shows a nice base at the end of his drops. Has good arm flexibility and a smooth throwing motion with a high release point. Can drop his arm angle if needed. You can see the ball jump out of his hand. Knows when to take something off of his throws. Generally shows nice anticipation, placement, and velocity when throwing the ball downfield. Shows the ability to look off safeties to create windows. Able to extend the play when facing pressure, with some improvisational skill as a passer. Keeps his eyes downfield and can make throws while rolling to his right. Can elude the first defender and has good speed to pick up the first down when the middle of the field is open. Tough player with a compact build; has proven that he can run the ball effectively in short-yardage situations.

Negatives:

Over twenty percent of his throws in each of the past two years have been screens, and about two-thirds have come within ten yards of the line of scrimmage. Could be slightly shorter than some teams like, so pre-draft measurements may be important. Looks like he’s running the play too fast at times, and could benefit from slowing down and maintaining his mechanics to improve the consistency of his ball placement. Would like to see him step into throws more consistently. Shorter passes (swings, screens, etc.) sometimes force adjustments which limit yards after the catch. Has a tendency to drift backwards and will attempt some risky back-foot throws when facing pressure. Some deep balls sail on him. Public criticism of former coach may not sit well with teams.

Summary:

An interesting quarterback prospect who combines a quick release, a strong arm, and the ability to extend the play as a passer or pick up first-downs on his own. At times, could play with less urgency, as the consistency of his base and mechanics can lead to placement issues which weren’t really reflected in his numbers because of the heavy emphasis Oregon put on routine throws. Outstanding production over the past two seasons has really improved his draft stock, and looks like a pretty good bet to come off the board within the first fifty picks or so.

Projection: Round 2