Tanner McKee is one of the most under-the-radar prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. Standing 6'6, being both a solid quarterback for Stanford and a great leader for his team, and defeating cancer, he is truly one hell of an attractive character for teams looking for a franchise guy. Stanford did go through a rough stretch last year. The question is this: how much of that can be put on McKee? Let's dive in and find out.
Biography
Name: Tanner McKee
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6'6
Weight: 228
Age: 22
Class: RS Sophomore
School: Stanford
For those of you who are new to the 'In a Nutshell' series, this is a summarized scouting report to give you everything you need to know "in a nutshell."
The Good
McKee, as already discussed, has all of the intangibles. That bodes well for his potential to last in the NFL alone. He offers top-tier decision making and progression usage, which is crucial for his success at the next level. McKee also has the (tied) best accuracy and ball placement in the class. That is huge, given his (lack of) arm strength.
The Bad
McKee has subpar arm strength. It is not horrible, but zip is not a strength. His mental capabilities are crucial to minimize this negative. Luckily for McKee, he has those traits. The Cardinal is not a superb athlete, either, but his play style does not require it. McKee lastly needs to work on his timing, as it is tied worst in the class.
The Ugly?
Mechanics are the only issue with McKee. He and Will Levis both have awkward mechanics, but the NFL caters to their quarterback style rather than changing it. That is why the grading scale weights it lower than other crucial categories.
Overall
McKee is an interesting prospect: he has all of the intangibles to be a franchise leader, yet he lacks the physical upside to be one. Mac Jones is a safe projection for McKee if he can reach his potential. Both have solid mental capabilities at the cost of physical. Time shall tell if he can get over the physical limitations. If he can, McKee offers tremendous upside.
Grading Scale: (Average: 5/10)
Arm Strength: 11/15
Decision Making/ Progressions: 16/20
Accuracy: 8/10
Ball Placement: 8/10
Athleticism: 5.5/10
On the Move/ Out of Structure: 6.75/10
Mechanics: 2/5
Timing: 3/5
Pocket Presence: 4/5
Injury: 3/5
Mentality: 5/5
Draft Grade: 72.25
Draft Projection: Late 1st Round
Big Board Rank: N/A
Shades of: Mac Jones or Davis Mills
Top Three Fits: Dolphins, Lions, Falcons