Dennis Dixon QB 6’3 195 Oregon

Dixon is a dual threat QB that flashed big play ability his first two seasons in Eugene, but finally took over the starting job in 2006. He threw for 2,143 yards while completing 61.2% of his passes for 12 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. He also added 442 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. Dixon spent the summer heading into his senior season playing minor league baseball for the Atlanta Braves. That upset some people, but it turned out to be a great move. Dixon got a chance to clear his head and mature, and turned in a tremendous senior season. Dixon threw for 2,136 yards while completing 67.7% of his passes for 20 touchdowns to just four interceptions. He ran for 583 yards and nine touchdowns as well. Dixon was the Heisman front runner until a torn ACL in November ended his season, and the Ducks shot at a national title.

Dixon is a phenomenal athlete. He has fantastic agility, quickness, and speed for a quarterback. He can easily elude the rush in the pocket, and shows the ability to tuck the ball away and run. His passing ability is continuing to develop. He has shown solid accuracy the past couple seasons, and his decisions have improved. He has major potential as a dual threat QB, being able to beat a team with his arm or his feet. Although he is a legitimate QB prospect, he also has the size and athleticism to play wide receiver at the next level.

Dixon still needs work as a QB. He is coming along as a senior, but he has to prove that is a long term improvement and not just a hot streak. In the past, he has forced balls into coverage and looks to run too quick. He also has a very thin frame, and will need to bulk up if he is to sit in the pocket and be a starting QB in the NFL.

Dixon is a work in progress, but he is showing the improvement necessary to become a starting NFL quarterback. He had a tremendous season as a senior until the ACL injury ended it. That will hinder his ability to perform in front of NFL scouts leading up to the draft, and that will have a negative effect on his draft position. The injury and the fact that he is a developmental prospect still will likely keep him out of Day One.