The Chicago Bears 2021 draft outlook hasn’t changed too much from when the season began. It feels like it’ll be an offensively-focused draft with the offensive line taking center stage. However, nobody is ready to erase quarterback from the top of the needs list yet. Unsurprising given the uncertain status of Nick Foles beyond 2020.

While technically under contract, he could have the option to opt out and go elsewhere. With Mitch Trubisky and Tyler Bray becoming free agents as well, it makes quarterback a prominent position worth watching next April. To that end, it’s probably a good idea to get a grasp on who might be available at that time.

One name that is sure to garner some attention is Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan. He was good in 2019 with over 3,200 yards passing, 30 touchdowns, and just seven interceptions. Does the tape back this up?

Chicago Bears 2021 draft look at Tanner Morgan

Strengths:

• Arm isn’t a rocket but he shows solid velocity on his throws. Most of the playbook should be open to him.
• Accuracy is good enough. Can lead wide receivers well and hits his targets on the run too. At his best when allowed to step into passes.
• Not a pure runner but mobility is part of his game. Can buy time with his legs and will take off for the occasional first down.
• Nice, compact release. Ball comes up and out with little wasted motion. He gets it out nice and quick.
• The deep ball is part of his arsenal. Hits receivers in stride 40 yards down the field and doesn’t appear to struggle when doing so.

https://twitter.com/___daner/status/1242260437934227456

This is what they can an NFL throw. Morgan does a great job looking left to hold the safeties where they are. He even does a subtle shoulder hitch freeze them. Then he comes back to the right and drives the ball with enough touch over two defenders to his receiver who popped open during the sequence. Great throw that was set up by what he did in those couple of second beforehand.

• Doesn’t seem phased by past mistakes. Will come right back and keep attacking defenses through the air.
• Show nice variations in touch with the football. Can drive it in hard on some throws but then take some off to get it over defenders on others.
• Underrated quality? Commits to play fakes in order to get defenders to bite. Subtle but significant trait.
• Footwork is sound for the most part. Has a good base to throw from on most passes, allowing him to fit the ball in tight windows.

Weaknesses:

• A one-ready quarterback right now. If his initial option isn’t there, he’ll wait on it or start moving around to buy time or take off and run.
• Doesn’t seem to handle pressure well. Shows happy feet and won’t stand tall in the pocket, leading to hurried throws.
• Bad tendency to throw passes off his back foot. Doesn’t have the arm to get away with it in the NFL.
• Ball placement is a bit erratic at times. Has a tendency to throw behind receivers and can lets passes sail high when throwing deeper routes.
• Pocket feel is below average. Doesn’t always sense where the pressure is coming from and can’t navigate the congestion. 
• Listed at 6’2 but looks closer to 6’1 on tape. So the size will be a minor question mark for him at the next level.

Pro comparison: Colt McCoy

The be precise, we’re talking the McCoy from Texas prior to suffering an injury to his throwing shoulder. One that robbed him of some power and velocity he used to have. That McCoy was fun to watch. He was accurate, could throw down the field, had enough mobility to move around, and played the position as a veteran would. Sadly his inability to sense and avoid pressure at times opened him up to some tough hits. Injuries inevitably followed.

Projection: 3rd round

Morgan has a foundation of traits that make him an interesting prospect. He has just enough size, just enough arm strength, and just enough accuracy to believe he can be a starter in the NFL. The guy isn’t going to wow people with his physical traits but if put in a system that fits his style, one that utilizes RPOs and slant concepts, then he should be able to run an offense effectively. The Chicago Bears 2021 draft board should include his name.