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2024 NFL Scouting Report: Devin Leary

Devin Leary is a great leader and future backup quarterback for an offense that loves to operate the West Coast scheme.

Devin Leary NFL Draft Overview

The Kentucky Wild Cats under Mike Stoops has been an underrated hotbed for NFL talent. I have always watched Kentucky football prospects, from outside linebacker Josh Allen to Quarterback Will Levis. In comes Devin Leary. The backup QUARTERBACK position is more important now than ever before. You have to make sure you have a good win. Leary was a 3-star recruit out of Sicklerville, New Jersey, committed to NC State Wolfpack. Devin became the full-time starter his sophomore year but broke his fibula and was out for the season. Leary had a fabulous 2021, amassing 3,433 yards, 35 touchdowns, and five interceptions. However, injuries struck again in 2022, with a pectoral injury ending his season. Afterward, Leary entered the transfer portal and committed to Kentucky. Leary accumulated 2746 yards, 25 Touchdowns, and 12 ints. Leary showed off his talent and experience while leading the Wildcats to a bowl game. However, did he do enough to get drafted? Let’s dig into the film!

Position: Quarterback

Height: 6’1 (Unofficial)

Weight: 217 lbs (Unofficial)

Age: 24 years old

School: Kentucky

Devin Leary Player Evaluation

Leary’s Strengths

  • Has good experience for the position. Four-year anointed college starter with good production and named Team Captain.
  • Good at recognizing pre-snap coverages and delivering positive results post-snap. Solid going through reads and progressions.
  • He stands in the pocket and delivers strikes while being hit. Not scared of pressure and doesn’t flinch while stepping up in the pocket.
  • He has good footwork and a great quick release, which helps in the quick game, such as screens and short routes.
  • He has plus arm strength and can pack some heat with his velocity occasionally.

Leary’s Weakness 

  • He has zero elite traits, which may limit him to a fringe starter/high-caliber backup in the NFL.
  • Occasionally Holds on to the ball too long, trying to make a big play, leading to unnecessary hits and bad turnovers.
  • Turns 25 years of age during the Regular season
  • Deep Balls are a significant concern. Sometimes, the ball floats in the air, leading to contested catches and incompletions.
  • The lack of velocity on tough NFL “big boy throws” relegates him to backup status.
  • Small in size and frame for NFL QB standards. Has a significant injury history. He lost multiple seasons due to injuries.

Projection: Late Fifth or Early Six Round Draft Pick

NFL Comparison: Chase Daniel

Best Fits: Atlanta Falcons or the New York Jets

Bottom Line

Devin Leary is an NFL-caliber backup QB who should be drafted in the 6th round or later. Leary has a good feel for football and a high IQ, allowing him to operate pre and post-snap. He has ample experience, good footwork, and fierce pocket composure to succeed in a backup role in the NFL. He fits best on a run, first-play action quick game scheme to help his lack of physical tools. Leary has zero elite physical traits to think about, making him a starter. Also, his lack of a deep ball and tendency to hold the ball too long hinders him in a significant way. My pro comp was Chase Daniel. Like Daniel, I expect Leary to be a good backup in the NFL.

Main Photo: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

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