Matt Waldman’s Rookie Scouting Portfolio examines how 2019 NFL Draft prospect Will Grier makes one of the most difficult throws in football: throwing receivers open. 

What does Will Grier have in common with Drew Brees? Both execute one of the most difficult throws a quarterback can make: “throwing a receiver open.”

When you see a quarterback make this play, it’s often a target between the hash marks. The NFL seeks quarterbacks who are comfortable and accurate with targeting receivers in the middle of the field because it’s often a telling indicator of the quarterback’s processing of the coverage, technical precision, aggressive mindset, and overall confidence.

Will Grier shows off these traits on this third-and-seven target to his receiver on a skinny post — a route that the NFL uses often 25-35 yards downfield.

One of the better displays of accuracy you will see when evaluating a QB is if he can throw a receiver open. Here’s #WillGrier doing it. #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/p4qxNZsrvV

— Matt Waldman (@MattWaldman) June 22, 2018

Grier reads the coverage of two defenders and determines where the ball must go within three quick steps of his drop. This skill is rooted in knowledge and recognition of the potential defenses that he’ll face against this route, which means he has done his homework on the whiteboard.

The play is also an indication that Grier has worked with his receiver to anticipate this coverage and how to attack it with ball placement. This happens during meetings and practice.

In addition to their on-field recognition and technical precision, Drew Brees and Peyton Manning were special quarterbacks in the NFL because they were detailed and precise with their preparation before the game — and took it upon themselves to prepare their teammates in the same fashion. Throws like this skinny post indicate that Grier prepares himself and his teammates, which is a mark of a good leader.

This analysis of Grier is only the beginning of what you’ll find in the Rookie Scouting Portfolio publication. For most in-depth analysis of skill players available, get the 2018  Rookie Scouting Portfolio. If you’re a fantasy owner the Post-Draft Add-on comes with the 2012 – 2018 RSPs at no additional charge. Best, yet, 10 percent of every sale is donated to Darkness to Light to combat sexual abuse. You can purchase past editions of the Rookie Scouting Portfolio for just $9.95 each. You can pre-order the 2019 RSP beginning in December.