Ever since the NFL Scouting Combine, his draft stock has risen.
Jalen Hurts, former Alabama and Oklahoma quarterback, posted strong numbers in the 40-yard dash (4.59 seconds), vertical jump (35”) and broad jump (10’5”) while proving to pro scouts his ability to make every throw on a football field.
He dominated the conversation throughout the event and created major value for himself.
Prior to the Combine, many felt he would be selected between the fifth and seventh-round of the upcoming draft, but the narrative has now changed.
RELATED: NFL Draft analyst does not see Jalen Hurts falling below the second round
According to Bucky Brooks, a former NFL player and scout, the draft analyst expects for Hurts to come off the board on day two. This means the native Texan sits between the second and third-round of the venue. Like he did at the Combine, Brooks continues to compare Hurts to Dak Prescott of the Dallas Cowboys. The 6-foot-1, 222-pounder had a decorative career in both the Southeastern Conference and Big 12 – leading Alabama and Oklahoma to the College Football Playoff.
.@BuckyBrooks explains why @JalenHurts is moving up draft boards.
?: NFL Now pic.twitter.com/bbPpPH13bH
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) March 9, 2020
Not only was he a national champion with the Crimson Tide and a conference champion at both programs, but Hurts also recorded incredible statistics. In three years at Alabama (2016-18), he collected 7,602 yards offensively with 71 total touchdowns to 12 interceptions. During his lone season with the Sooners in 2019, Hurts tallied 5,149 yards with 52 scores to eight picks.
His career ended with 12,751 yards and 123 touchdowns to 20 picks.
Hurts always did a solid job of protecting the ball, but more so than that, he is well-respected by two institutions.
It will be very interesting to see where he lands next month in the draft.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
