2023 Senior Bowl Scouting Notes: QB Jake Haener, Fresno State

A transfer from Washington, Jake Haener sat out the 2019 season due to transfer rules before becoming a 3rd Team All-Mountain West player in 2020. He’s an intriguing talent who has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career, taking nicks and bruises with his lack of size. I like his style, he makes up for his lack of arm strength doing a lot of other great things. Haener has stepped up in the big games when his team has needed him, and he looks like he can develop into a very suitable backup at the next level.

HT: 6005
WT: 195
Year: Super Redshirt Senior
High School: Monte Vista (Danville, CA)
Rating: 3-star (0.8599)

Fresno St. QB Jake Haener can spin it. Some impressive throws and moments vs. Oregon.

A QB prospect to keep an eye on. pic.twitter.com/6vR9LadhTe
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) September 29, 2021

Jake Haener scouting report

Pros:

Demonstrates the ability to throw with very nice touch.
Lightning quick release. Has a very fast windup motion that is one, swift movement. Ball comes out with a very clean spiral.
When Haener is on, he’s excellent. Placement flashes excellence, throwing it away from defenders and throwing his guys open. However, when he’s off, it’s bad. Struggles to find the consistent point between.
Works well in the pocket, though not really from the initial drop. Takes him a moment to find the sweet spot.
Works very well from the pocket to move to where the space is and make effective throws. Confuses defenders with his sudden movement. Very impressive in this regard.
Very quick feet.
Works very well outside of the pocket and throws a good, tight spiral even from off platform.
Very athletic quarterback prospect. Offers a good bit of versatility while running the ball.
Shows some good improv ability.
Displays the ability to extend plays and keep them within structure.

Cons:

Arm strength is intriguing on tape. Flashes good velocity but I’m not certain how effective he can be throwing deep down field beyond 30 yards. Doesn’t appear to have great arm strength.
Accuracy is very, very spotty. Struggles to stay consistent. When he’s on, he’s good. When he’s cold, it’s problematic.
Clog-legs in his drop. Doesn’t cross his feet… Interesting technique.
I don’t think he reads coverages as well.
Has a lot to do in terms of work understanding NFL offenses. Ran a simple offense at Fresno State -will need an adjustment period at the next level.