Michael Pratt, QB, Tulane
Size:
Height: 6’2.5”
Weight: 217 pounds
Arm Length: 30 3/4"
Hand Size: 9 1/4"
Accomplishments:
2023 AAC OPOY (2023)
“Michael Pratt is an experienced processor with the ball placement and horsepower to layer throws to a variety of depths.”
Strengths:
Processing
Leader—exudes confidence
Ball placement
Legs
Gamer
Concerns:
Quick to tuck/run at times
Extended internal clock
Pulls the string a little too often
Film Analysis:
Michael Pratt is a mature signal-caller whose leadership drips off of his tape. He looks the part at 6-foot-3, too, and his frame has room for additional strength.
In the pocket, Pratt’s experience shines as a processor presnap. Quick to identify depth and principles of outside coverage. Clean mechanics with a smooth delivery and easy zip. Can, at times, pull the string a little too much when asked to layer throws, but often drops it right into the bucket. Zero concerns if asked to live inside the tackles as a pure pocket passer. Average burst but has some athletic ability to create chunk plays if defenders turn their back.
Pratt is excellent working off play-action, where he sells the mesh point and quickly flips his head to scan. His base remains clean and will rarely throw off-balance if granted the necessary space. Mechanics when working in play-action could be modified at the next level, however, where Pratt is used to aligning in a neutral base with his shoulders square to the line of scrimmage. The mesh point and initial dropback are an elongated process that could be considered wasted movement to whichever offense he finds himself in.
As a vertical passer, Pratt’s easy arm strength and accuracy shine. Extremely easy, fluid motion where the ball pops off his arm. Have not seen vertical shots from a variety of arm angles, but Pratt is quick to get the ball out after identifying advantageous matchups and will rarely underthrow a go-ball.
Pratt has the initial burst and the off-platform ability to make throws but could struggle when things break down around him against more athletic defenders. Internal clock can extend past the threshold at times, leading to sacks and turnovers against ball-hunting defenders at the next level. Confidence to pump throws into condensed windows is apparent, but taking his check-down and living to see the next down will remain important in his development.
Overall, Pratt is an intriguing signal-caller with the skill set to succeed at the NFL level. He’s a strong athlete with the footwork and processing ability to pump throws all over the field. Offenses that prioritize play-action will value Pratt’s game.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Developmental Traits
Exposures: Memphis (2023), USC (2022), UCF (2022)
