Prospect Evaluation: Notre Dame Target DeShone Kizer

Jan.1, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback EJ Manuel (3) throws a pass in the first quarter against the Northern Illinois Huskies during the 2013 Orange Bowl game at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

DeShone Kizer is one of a few Notre Dame targets at the Quarterback position. He visited Notre Dame over the weekend. He has been predicted to select the Fighting Irish soon according to 247Sports Crystal Ball.

Size

Kizer checks in at 6’5″ 207lbs according to his player profiles. This is excellent and prototypical size for a Quarterback. Based on his Elite 11 highlights, he could add solid weight which will give him that “layer of armor” that will protect him from injury.

Arm Strength, Accuracy and Release

Kizer has above average strength and release but needs to improve upon his accuracy. In many plays, he does not put the play in a position where his receiver can make a play with it. Kizer is not a player that is going to “Wow” you with his arm but he has enough to be a solid passer at the next level.

Footwork, Pocket Presence and Elusiveness

Despite being labeled as a “dual threat” Quarterback, Kizer is not extremely fast. In a straight sprint, he would probably lose to both Golson and Zaire. However, his mobility is still an asset in the running game and to make plays when things break down.

His footwork needs to be improved. He tends to hop around in the pocket instead of sliding and delivering. Ultimately, when he will be able to set his set and deliver consistently, he will be a more accurate Quarterback.

Kizer’s label as a “dual threat” is sort of misleading for another reason. He is extremely patient in the pocket. He waits until things break down until he moves outside the pocket. When he does this, he keeps his eyes down the field. This allows him to make plays with his arm.

Kizer is an underrated prospect. This can be seen by the teams who have offered him a scholarship. When LSU and Alabama offer, the prospect is probably pretty good. Kizer does have his deficiencies. But they are things that can be easily fixed. When he improves them, he could be the next E.J. Manuel.