Brad Sorensen, QB

12/30/2012 - It's going to be a busy winter for Brad Sorensen. A record-setting quarterback at Southern Utah University, Sorensen this week received an invitation to the NFL Combine Feb. 20-26 at Indianapolis. "It's a great opportunity for Brad," said Thunderbirds coach Ed Lamb. "I'm excited for him. And I think I speak for our coaching staff and all his teammates."

Most scouting services project Sorensen a third-round pick, but an impressive showing at the combine could enable him to move up. "I'm a big fan, so I couldn't give you an unbiased opinion," Lamb said. "But judging from what the scouts have been conveying to me, he has all the physical tools. It sounds like many of them believe his abilities transfer best to the NFL - for teams with a pocket-passing game." One thing is certain: Sorensen has the attention of those whose livelihood depends on finding NFL-quality players. Three weeks ago, he was invited to play in the NFL Players Association Collegiate Bowl on Jan. 19 in Carson, Calif. - Steve Luhm, The Salt Lake Tribune

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Years ago, NFL scouts might have scoffed at a quarterback who'd transferred from a competitive situation at an FBS school to assure playing time at a lower level. Joe Flacco's success with the Baltimore Ravens, after being drafted out Delaware, following his transfer from Pitt, however, has teams taking a more measured look at prospects from "small schools," especially those with size and legitimate arm talent, like Southern Utah's Sorensen.

Sorensen spent two years on an LDS mission in Spain following high school. Upon his return, he played at San Bernadino Valley College, where he earned the Foothill Conference's Offensive Player of the Week honors an astounding seven times in the 10-game season.

Sorensen walked-on at BYU a year later, but elected to transfer after redshirting in 2009. In three seasons since at SUU, he's proven to be a star and left the program owning virtually all of the single-season and career passing records. He threw for 9,445 passing yards and 61 touchdowns (against 27 interceptions) for his career. He threw for 3,139 yards and 23 touchdowns (10 interceptions) as a senior.

Scouts like his physical tools and upside. Unfortunately, he was inconsistent in matchups against top competition, throwing interceptions against Utah State (one), Cal (one, returned for a touchdown) and in the NFLPA Bowl (two).

Strengths: Looks the part of an NFL quarterback with good height, broad shoulders and a thick build throughout. Possesses at least average arm strength, including the ability to drive the ball to the sideline from the opposite hash. Shows some touch down the seam and the sideline, generally leading his receivers towards the open field and away from the defender. Athletic to buy time in the pocket and yet alert enough to take off and get yardage when the defense allows it.

Weaknesses: Has a tendency to fade back as pressure comes to him, rather than stepping up into the pocket to avoid. Success came in a largely shotgun-based offense. Footwork needs refining. Doesn't step into his throws consistently enough so his passes tend to wobble. Played well against lower level competition but struggled when facing FBS speed.

Compares To: Tom Brandstater, QB, St. Louis Rams

Rob Rang