2018 NFL Draft: Nebraska QB Tanner Lee declares

A mystery in the quarterback room could break through in the 2018 NFL Draft

Nebraska quarterback Tanner Lee has decided to forgo his final season with the Cornhuskers and declare for the 2018 NFL Draft.

Starting his career at Tulane Lee transferred to the Big 10 and sat out the entire 2016 season for Nebraska. Starting 12 games in 2017, Lee threw a career-high 23 touchdowns, but also hit a career high with 16 interceptions.

Lee carried hype into his first season with Nebraska after an impressive showing at the Manning Passing Academy last summer. His physical presence at 6’4 is the mold of an NFL quarterback and his performance amongst the top college quarterbacks caught the eyes of many talent evaluators.

Patrick Woo, College Scouting Coordinator for the Reese’s Senior Bowl, highlighted Lee following the camp.

“Tanner’s a big-bodied pocket passer with a nice release and can really throw the deep ball. Smart quarterback with a live arm. Had a great week in Thibodaux.”

Lee’s stock has certainly taken a hit and his departure from Nebraska is surprising. Ineligible for the Senior Bowl, the quarterback will turn 23 before the NFL Draft in Dallas next spring. Look for Lee to slot into the fifth round or later after a down season with the chance of landing with a practice squad during the season.

Teams looking for a developmental quaterback such as the New England Patriots, Los Angeles Chargers, Green Bay Packers, or Atlanta Falcons might take a swipe on the Nebraska prospect during the third day.

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Lee will likely receive an invitation to the NFL Combine this winter and put himself next to some of the best talent in this years class. UCLA’s Josh Rosen, USC’s Sam Darnold, Oklahoma’s Baker Mayfield, and Louisville’s Lamar Jackson are each projected to go in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft.