-
Tom Luginbill
As the pieces fall into place concerning the quarterback prospects of the 2026 cycle, the focus shifts to how the 2027 group might follow a similar path and cement the future of college football’s most pivotal position for years to come.
Presented here are nine SC Next Junior 300 committed quarterbacks, each possessing skill sets that align favorably with their respective future teams, elucidating why each commitment is generating anticipation.
Ranking: No. 25 overall, No. 2 QB-DT
Texas Tech has surged to the No. 6 spot in the most recent College Football Playoff rankings, largely attributed to offensive coordinator Mack Leftwich’s rendition of the Air Raid scheme. The Red Raiders’ success has been achieved despite a perceived deficiency in dynamism at the quarterback position. Behren Morton embodies the classic pocket passer archetype. His understudy, Will Hammond, showcased running ability before an injury sidelined him, though this was borne more from necessity than strategic design.
Bryant is expected to contribute a distinctive set of skills to the Lubbock program. Hailing from Texas, he’s a potent dual-threat talent who has garnered significant interest from Division I programs for his basketball prowess as well. Bryant’s playing style reflects a spontaneous creativity, heavily dependent on his capacity for improvisation and instinctive running to extend plays. The expectation is for Texas Tech to apply pressure on opposing defenses by leveraging Bryant’s mobility in both the ground game and in maneuvers outside the pocket.
Ranking: No. 68 overall, No. 3 QB-DT
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 210 pounds, Johnson presents a blend of size, arm strength, and physical presence that the Aggies currently lack in their starting quarterback, Marcel Reed. While he may not possess Reed’s agility or explosive running ability, offensive coordinator Collin Klein could potentially utilize him in a manner analogous to Klein’s own deployment as a Heisman Trophy finalist during his tenure at Kansas State.
Johnson’s skill set bears resemblance to that of former Texas A&M quarterback Jerrod Johnson, suggesting a potential development into a powerful runner capable of operating between the tackles.
Impressive work from 2027 standout QB Jayce Johnson at UA Next in ORL 😳 @JayceJohnson09
On time and on target with his deliveries to go with some impressive measurables and testing times. He’s one to know in the 2027 class 👀 #UANext pic.twitter.com/HmqtG15J9s
— Billy Tucker (@TheUCReport) February 28, 2025
Ranking: No. 70 overall, No. 1 QB-PP
Notre Dame recognizes considerable developmental potential and inherent accuracy in Jarrard, perceiving that he has only begun to tap into the full scope of his capabilities. In terms of physical attributes, he is a towering figure who has matured relatively late, still refining his coordination and command of his physique. Continued improvements in arm strength are expected, and he has already demonstrated exceptional touch on throws directed downfield.
The Irish commit is likely to benefit from a redshirt year, affording him the time necessary to hone his skills alongside the talented quarterbacks already present on the roster. Notre Dame intends to emphasize Jarrard’s proficiency in ballhandling and play-action techniques, integral components of a traditionally robust running game under the guidance of Marcus Freeman. Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock has a proven track record of cultivating efficiency in the quarterbacks he coaches.
Ranking: No. 86 overall, No. 3 QB-PP
Edmunds, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 220 pounds, is a quintessential pocket passer whose dimensions and build may evoke memories of former quarterback Will Howard among Ohio State fans. While Edmunds may not possess the running dynamism of Justin Fields, or even Julian Sayin, he effectively employs his powerful arm to deliver the ball into tightly contested areas. To perform at his optimum level, Edmunds requires a rhythmic and synchronized execution from within the pocket. Given the abundance of elite talent surrounding the quarterback at Ohio State, the Buckeyes are not necessarily reliant on a quarterback with exceptional athleticism to achieve success.
Ranking: No. 94 overall, No. 4 QB-PP
Taylor and offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen appear to be an ideal match. His skill set aligns well with Nebraska’s RPO-centric, Air Raid scheme, primarily due to his exceptionally quick release. The 6-3, 185-pound Illinois native also possesses the ability to subtly alter his arm angles, thereby enhancing his completion rate. He is expected to excel in short, precise throws behind the line of scrimmage and passes covering less than 10 yards downfield. Taylor exhibits proficiency in throwing accurately while moving in either direction, enabling Holgorsen to confidently implement mobile pocket strategies.
Ranking: No. 113 overall, No. 7 QB-PP
Illinois is in a strong position to achieve consecutive winning seasons for the first time since the 2010-11 period. Securing stability at the quarterback position with Luke Altmyer has played a significant role in stabilizing the program under the leadership of Bret Bielema, and Lopati is perceived as a similarly promising prospect, albeit with superior athletic capabilities.
Offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. has consistently favored a run-first, spread-offense approach, incorporating the RPO game, which Lopati can execute with considerable effectiveness. This offensive scheme will involve strategic pocket movement and the creation of play-action opportunities for both intermediate and deep passing attempts. Lopati’s arm strength is anticipated to be more than adequate for these requirements.
Ranking: No. 117 overall, No. 5 QB-DT
Hailing from Georgia, Hughley is an exciting dual-threat prospect whose playing style may remind Tigers fans of former quarterback Tajh Boyd. Hughley is expected to flourish within the run-oriented schemes that offensive coordinator Garrett Riley developed for Max Duggan at TCU, and he presents a more dynamic passing threat compared to Cade Klubnik.
Hughley showcases a rapid release, a strong arm, and a playing style characterized by improvisational flair. Should Clemson’s other quarterbacks encounter challenges in maintaining efficiency upon Hughley’s arrival, he possesses the potential to rapidly exert a substantial impact.
Ranking: No. 126 overall, No. 8 QB-PP
Seaborn, a shrewd in-state acquisition, demonstrates exceptional accuracy. While he may not encompass the complete skill set of Keelon Russell or the underrated athleticism of Ty Simpson, he is capable of managing the offense with the precision necessary to deliver passes to all three levels of the defense.
Alabama’s offensive coordinator, Ryan Grubb, exhibits mastery in capitalizing on his quarterback’s strengths while mitigating potential weaknesses. Upon Seaborn’s arrival, his timing and anticipatory skills as a passer are anticipated to emerge as a significant asset in Tuscaloosa.
Really impressive deep throw here from Trent Seaborn for the touchdown @TrentSeaborn
The Thompson (AL) QB is one of the best in the 2027 class currently rated as the No. 115 prospect in the ESPN Jr. 300
(🎥: @WARRIORNATION20)
— Billy Tucker (@TheUCReport) August 22, 2025
Ranking: No. 130 overall, No. 10 QB-PP
Bourque is a refined and polished passer, distinguished by his substantial stature at 6-5, 200 pounds, and an unexpected degree of agility within the pocket. While he may not be as dynamically mobile as Bryce Underwood, he demonstrates sufficient mobility to evade pressure and extend plays. Michigan’s offensive coordinator, Chip Lindsey, a product of the Gus Malzahn coaching lineage and former mentor to Drake Maye at North Carolina, shares similar physical attributes with Bourque.
Bourque possesses a potent arm, a fluid release, and the capability to manipulate the pocket to execute off-platform throws while effectively managing the RPO game.
