With The First Pick
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2017 NFL Draft: Pittsburgh Nate Peterman Scouting Report

By Jon Dove

Sep 12, 2015; Akron, OH, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers quarterback Nate Peterman (4) looks to the sideline for a play call during a game against the Akron Zips at InfoCision Stadium - Summa Field. Mandatory Credit: Nick Cammett-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 12, 2015; Akron, OH, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers quarterback Nate Peterman (4) looks to the sideline for a play call during a game against the Akron Zips at InfoCision Stadium - Summa Field. Mandatory Credit: Nick Cammett-USA TODAY Sports /
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Pittsburgh Nate Peterman is a late rising quarterback prospect who might be more of a flavor of the week than true prospect.

Nate Peterman had a successful final season at Pittsburgh that saw him lead his team to some big-time wins. He built off his in-season success at the Senior Bowl which helped raise his overall draft stock. However, there are too many holes in his game to project Peterman as a slam dunk NFL starter.

Peterman’s best attribute is his sound technique which includes balanced footwork and ball positioning. He is committed to keeping his feet and should square to his target. This helps his accuracy and overall ball placement.

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He also maintains his balance and square approach when rolling out of the pocket. Peterman keeps the ball above his breast plate which avoids wasted motion and helps speed up his delivery.

This is a solid athlete who can extend plays and move outside the pocket. He has just enough quickness to make plays with his legs. In fact, a lot of Pittsburgh’s offense revolved around Peterman getting on the move.

Pittsburgh’s offense also gave him the opportunity to work from under center, operate play action and call plays in the huddle. These are things a lot of the quarterback prospects in this draft have limited experience handling.

Peterman has some pro-ready skills, but overall isn’t ready to take the field as a rookie. He shows a limited ability to read a defense often locking on one target. Peterman also tends to vacate the pocket if that No. 1 option is covered.

Pittsburgh’s tendency to roll him out of the pocket also limited his experience working in traffic. He isn’t someone who likes to step up to avoid the rush but rather looks to tuck and run.

Peterman loves to play the check-down game and rarely takes a shot down field. NFL quarterbacks are expected to produce big plays and Peterman hasn’t proven that this is part of his game. However, some of that may have to do with the limited weapons on Pittsburgh’s roster.

I have some questions regarding Peterman’s overall arm strength. A lot of his deep balls are underthrown and his sideline throws lack zip. Peterman has some starter potential, but he doesn’t jump out as someone with big-time upside. He strikes me as a career backup who will mainly serve as a game manager type.

Draft Range: 5th Round

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