Reviewing Packers 2023 Draft Class: QB Sean Clifford
By Paul Bretl
As I continue on with my review of the Packers’ 2023 draft class, I’ve arrived at Round 5, where Green Bay took quarterback Sean Clifford from Penn State.
In this series, I am taking a closer look at each draft prospect, starting with their measurables, highlighting the stats that you need to know, and their fit on this Packers team. I also have quotes from Brian Gutekunst and other members of the Green Bay organization, along with a pre-draft scouting report.
If you’ve missed any of the previous reviews, you can find them below.
Sean Clifford, QB, Penn State
Measurements
6’2″ | 218 | RAS: 9.04
When describing why the organization was so high on Clifford, one thing that both Brian Gutekunst and Matt LaFleur mentioned was his athleticism. Clifford posted an elite Relative Athletic Score, which was the fourth-highest among all quarterbacks in this year’s draft class, and included a 40 time of 4.62 seconds. During the 2019 and 2020 seasons, Clifford rushed for nearly 500 yards in each and totaled 15 touchdowns while averaging 5.2 yards per attempt over his career.
Stats to Know
Another aspect of Clifford’s game that the Packers liked was his experience level. Over his career, he appeared in 51 games, had nearly 1,500 dropbacks, and almost 2,800 career snaps. He is the Penn State all-time leader in passing yards, touchdowns, and completion percentage. In his most recent 2022 season, Clifford completed a career-high 64% of his passes, averaged 7.7 yards per attempt, along with throwing 22 touchdowns to seven interceptions. There wasn’t really on particular area where Clifford stood out among other quarterbacks, although he was fairly efficient off of play-action.
Fit with the Packers
Clifford is going to be competing with Danny Etling for the backup role behind Jordan Love. The backup can provide the starter with an extra set of eyes on the practice field, in the film room, and on the sidelines on Sundays to help gameplan and diagnose what’s taking place. As already mentioned, the Packers valued his experience and athleticism while also feeling that he is going to be a really good locker room fit. Following the selection, Packers Director of Football Operations Milt Hendrickson discussed what the role Clifford will play as the potential backup:
"“Obviously (the job of the backup quarterback), it’s to bring the intelligence that this kid has,” said Hendrickson. “Just being a really good fit both in that room and in the locker room too. The kid has some gamer to him that we really like, and his personality when he was here really came through, and I think he’s going to be a really good fit, the person as much as the player too.”"
The Packers said it
Matt LaFleur
"“Sean is a guy that is really intelligent, he’s played a lot of games, he’s got some athleticism, he’s a natural thrower, all the things you look for in a quarterback he possesses. We had him up here on an (official) 30 visit and went through the meetings with him and were impressed by his football acumen and overall intelligence. Looking forward to getting the chance to work with him in rookie minicamp.”"
Pre-draft scouting report
"“Strengths: Record-setting Penn State quarterback who displays outstanding pocket presence, senses the rush, and remains poised. Fearless, steps up to avoid defenders, and plays tough, smart football. Buys time for receivers, knows where his targets are, and spreads the ball around. Does an adequate job picking up yardage with his legs. Doesn’t make poor decisions.“Weaknesses: All over the place with throws. Doesn’t correctly read the defense on a consistent basis. Occasionally, releases the ball off his back foot. Really cannot drive deep passes.” – Tony Pauline, Pro Football Network"