Cole McDonald: The Hidden QB Gem In The 2020 NFL Draft

Sometimes you find late round quarterback gems that turn into something. Kirk Cousins was a 4th round pick. Tom Brady was a 6th round pick. Russell Wilson was taken in the 3rd round. Every few years there is one quarterback waiting in the middle or later rounds that turns into something whether it be a quality back up or even developmental starter. The player this year I like way down in the draft is Cole McDonald of Hawaii.

The number one concern with McDonald is his release. This is something the Hawaii quarterback has toyed with during his college career. In 2019, it’s turned into a looping motion. It’s unique to say the least. It reminds me a lot of the way Josh Dobbs throws the ball. When watching his games, he would miss a lot of easy short throws. However, for whatever reason, he drooped buckets deep down the field. How much of that do you credit the funky release?

McDonald ran the run and shoot offense in college. A lot of shotgun and not a lot of reading the defense. Still, McDonald excelled in his role. 63.4 percent, 4,135 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. The Hawaii product also declared as a Junior. It’s possible he would have taken another step forward as a Senior. That’s a great buy low candidate.

Add in the fact that Cole McDonald has plus arm strength and mobility. McDonald ran a 4.58 – 40 yard dash time. At first, when you watch McDonald, you see a funky Hawaii quarterback. Don’t judge for being a white guy with deadlocks. The dude can really play. The mechanics might need work but the tools are there. McDonald hangs in the pocket well and drops the ball in buckets down the field.

I’d love to break things down further but that’s really what you’re getting. Everything is out of the shotgun and Hawaii’s signal caller just lets it rip all day. McDonald put up a lot of electric performances in college. Albeit against lower competition. He can make all the throws and appears to be an X-Factor in the 2020 NFL Draft quarterback class. If you’re looking for a hidden gem, Cole McDonald is your man.

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