Grad Transfer Target Tyree Jackson Declares for the NFL

Several outlets are reporting that Buffalo Quarterback Tyree Jackson will declare for the NFL and forgo his senior season. Just weeks ago it was reported that Jackson would leave Buffalo as an early grad and transfer elsewhere, likely a bigger school with more recognition. Instead of honing his skills for one more year, Jackson will head to the NFL in a weak QB draft class, betting on his own ability at climbing up draft boards to be a high selection.

Although no one had connected Jackson’s name to Miami yet, likely because of the coaching staff shake-up and Jackson’s own decision coming just days ago, it seemed a given that the Hurricanes would at least try to recruit the 6’7” signal caller to Coral Gables. Remember that Miami had significant interest in Clemson quarterback transfer Kelly Bryant before he ultimately decided to head to Missouri. Our own Kevin Fielder argued that getting Jackson should be among the Canes’ top priorities in 2019.

His unique size, 6’7” and 245 pounds, and arm talent seemed like a great fit in a passing attack that Manny Diaz seems intent on bringing into the modern offensive era. And while Jackson may have been able to build his draft stock on a better team with more talent and recognition, next year’s QB draft class will likely include players like Alabama’s Tua Tagovailoa and Oregon’s Justin Herbert. With such a gap in signal caller talent between 2019 and 2020, it makes sense that Jackson would try his hand at the NFL sooner rather than later.

Without any QBs in the 2019 recruiting class, and few other grad transfer options apparent, it seems the starting job for the sport’s most important position will come down to N’Kosi Perry and Jarren Williams. One silver lining of Jackson’s decision; it likely saves Williams and/or Perry from transferring, at least in the short term.