The Cleveland Browns reportedly brought in former Tulane quarterback Michael Pratt on a pre-draft top-30 visit on Friday. The team recently hosted Joe Milton of Tennessee, making Pratt the second QB to spend time in Berea prior to the upcoming NFL Draft.
In 2022, Pratt threw for 3,010 yards, 27 touchdowns and only had five interceptions for Tulane. Pratt’s total numbers took a slight drop in 2023 with 2,406 passing yards, 22 touchdowns and matched the same mark of five interceptions. In his final season with the Green Wave, Pratt did throw the ball 55 less times than the year prior and his completion percentage increased by two percent.
Pratt is my 122nd overall prospect in this year’s class and slots in as my eighth ranked quarterback.
Nov 24, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Tulane Green Wave quarterback Michael Pratt (7).
Matthew Hinton-USA TODAY Sports
Thoughout his time in college, Pratt displayed good poise in the pocket and is not afraid to deliver throws even when knowing he will take a hit. Despite not being a true running quarterback, he is also athletic enough to scramble when necessary. Similar to Will Levis of last year’s draft class, Pratt struggles with reading the defense consistently and doesn’t throw players open. Both of these weaknesses will need to improve before taking valuable reps in the NFL.
If the Browns do decide to select a quarterback, then Pratt is a safer selection than Joe Milton. Milton has turned heads due to his size and freakish arm strength. Milton has a long way to go with his footwork and lacks reliable accuracy though. Pratt does not have the mechanical issues, which should count for a lot when comparing the two prospects.
Deshaun Watson is returning from his shoulder surgery which ended his season early in 2023. He recently began throwing and is expected to be ready to go for Week One in 2024. Behind Watson on the depth chart, Cleveland added Jameis Winston and Tyler Huntley this offseason. Dorian Thompson-Robinson is also entering his second season with the organization.
Some people strongly believe in drafting a quarterback every single year. However, it is extremely difficult to imagine that the front office would select a quarterback and carry five by the time of the regular season.
Unless Cleveland decides to move Huntley or Thompson-Robinson prior to September, then Pratt will likely not be wearing the orange and brown to begin his NFL career.
