FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at Tulane quarterback Michael Pratt.

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2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Michael Pratt

Michael Pratt (QB – Tulane)

6’3” – 220 lbs.

Background:

Three-star recruit who has been starting since three games into his freshman year, a season in which he led the team to a 4-5 record as the starter and threw for 1,806 yards (55.1%, 7.1 YPA), twenty touchdowns, and eight interceptions, adding eight rushing touchdowns. Went 2-9 the next year, with 2,381 yards (57.6%, 7.3), 21 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, with five scores on the ground. Really broke out as a sophomore, with an 11-2 record as the starter, and finished with 3,009 yards (63.6%, 8.9), 27 touchdowns, and five interceptions, along with 129-478-10 on the ground. As of the time of writing, Tulane has gone 10-1 this year with Pratt at quarterback, and he’s thrown for 2,406 yards (65.4%, 8.5) with 22 touchdowns and five interceptions, rushing for five touchdowns.

Positives:

Four-year starter who’s shown significant improvement in the past two seasons. Well-built quarterback with what looks like pretty good size. Nice base at the end of his drops. Throwing mechanics look sound, with a smooth three-quarters delivery. Shows good weight transfer into throws. Generally a good decision-maker who’s reduced turnovers with experience; takes what he can, and is willing to hit checkdowns or keep it himself when nothing materializes downfield. Throws a nice spiral with pretty good velocity, and shows the confidence to test coverage. Accurate deep ball with a high arc and appropriate touch. Tough player who’s willing to stand in and take a hit to complete a pass. Keeps his eyes downfield when fleeing the pocket. Able to create with his feet a bit, showing good toughness and working effectively in short-yardage situations. Can pick up first-downs when the middle of the field is left open. Also able to throw while rolling to his right, showing good velocity there as well.

Negatives:

Looks a bit stiff and mechanical at times. Release has a bit of a windup to it. Can get stuck on his primary read, rather than scanning for other options. Will occasionally take off when continuing to work through progressions would have allowed him to find an open receiver. Relies more on touch down the field and could struggle to rifle deep throws. Can sometimes fail to sense pressure. Not really a true dual-threat, despite high rushing totals, particularly in his junior year. Takes a lot of punishment when running with the ball and could be more consistent about sliding.

Summary:

A tough, competitive four-year starter with sound mechanics and decision-making, he may not be the most physically gifted passer in the class, but has developed into a consistent quarterback who sees the field well and protects the football. Consequently, looks like a pretty good bet to come off the board early on the third day, beginning his career as a backup but with the potential to develop into a spot starter who can manage games.

Projection: Round 4