Jets Draft Target: Tulane QB Michael Pratt?

If the New York Jets are the market for a reserve quarterback during the 2024 NFL Draft, they may be smart to consider Tulane’s Michael Pratt.

Might the New York Jets ensure that quarterback and 2024 NFL Draft prospect Michael Pratt continues to look good in green at the outset of his NFL career? 

With New York expected to explore trade options for 2021 No. 2 overall selection Zach Wilson, the Jets are purportedly in the market for a backup for starter Aaron Rodgers. To do so, they may look to the Draft to fill the role. As such, Pratt is likely to be on the club’s radar as a potential Day 3 selection.

Tulane QB Michael Pratt / Cred: USA Today Wire Photos

Pratt became the starting quarterback for the Tulane Green Wave just three games into his freshman season. He immediately impressed his coaching and teammates alike by compiling 1,806 passing yards and 20 touchdown passes. He also rushed for 229 yards and eight touchdowns. As a sophomore, Pratt completed 57.6 percent of his passes for 2,381 yards and 21 touchdowns with eight interceptions. However, the Boca Raton, Fla. native put himself on the national radar by throwing for 3,009 yards and 27 touchdowns, while earning a career-best 478 rushing yards and 10 scores via the ground game. 

Still, Pratt’s performance during his senior season may ultimately earn him a selection on Draft weekend. He completed 65.4 percent of his passes for 2,406 yards and 22 yards, while running for five trips to the end zone. For his efforts, he was awarded the 2023 AAC Offensive Player of the Year. Lastly, Pratt led his Green Wave teammates to an exciting 46-45 victory over the USA Trojans in the Cotton Bowl Classic. The 22-year-old converted a pair of fourth downs on a 12-play, 66-yard drive, culminating in a six-yard game-winning touchdown with just nine seconds remaining. 

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Due to his strong performance at the Senior Bowl, Pratt may have increased his Draft stock. The 6-2, 219-pound quarterback showcased his arm strength by pushed the ball downfield with relative ease. He also showed sound field awareness by avoiding the need to check the ball down under pressure. In fact, Pratt was consistently getting the ball out of his hands quickly and delivering it accurately. While his confidence will serve him well at the pro level, Pratt will need to restrain himself from taking the chance in big-play opportunities. 

Should the Jets find Pratt on the board in the mid-to-late rounds, they may find a promising quarterback not only capable of being a competent understudy, but also a potential spot starter. 

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