Kellen Clemens QB 6’2 225 Oregon
By: Robert Davis

Kellen Clemens came to Oregon as one of the elite quarterbacks in the country. He played as a backup as a freshman, then took over during his sophomore season. In 2003, he finished the season with 2,037 yards, while completing just over 57% of his passes, for 15 TD’s and 8 INT. He followed that up with an even better junior season, totaling 2,548 yards passing with a completion percentage just under 60%, and 22 TD’s and just 10 INT. In his final season in Eugene, Clemens threw for 2,406 yards and 19 touchdowns to just four picks, while completing 64% of his passes despite missing the final four games of the season after breaking his leg.

Clemens is a very solid dual threat quarterback. As a passer, he shows good accuracy when he sets up and delivers the ball downfield. He has become more accurate every year in college, and he has learned not to force so many balls into coverage. This year, he is showing off some more mobility and running ability than he has displayed in the past. With the new spread offense, his athleticism and ability to run are being utilized much more. Despite the mobility, he will stand in the pocket and throw a strike, even with a defender in his face.

While he has improved every year in college, he has had some problems showing consistency on the field. Clemens’ completion percentages are respectable but on a throw to throw basis, his arm can be erratic at times. His arm strength is nothing special either.

The good thing about Kellen is that he has continued to improve every year in college. The bad news is, he still doesn’t appear to have the ability to really carry his team. He doesn’t have the physical ability to make plays on his own or the consistency to continue to move the offense down the field. When he’s at his best, he resembles Rich Gannon, but that does not happen enough. Some team on Day Two will draft him and hope he continues to progress.