Prominent NFL analyst ranks Tua Tagovailoa ahead of Joe Burrow

Tua Tagovailoa got a positive report from doctors on his injured hip recently, and that may have been enough for one well known NFL analyst to label the former Alabama star the top quarterback in the upcoming draft. Yes, ahead of even Joe Burrow.

Bucky Brooks of NFL.com published his first NFL Draft prospect rankings on Wednesday, and he ranked Tagovailoa No. 1 at the quarterback position. Brooks feels the rapid ascension of Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson makes Tagovailoa the most intriguing QB prospect in the draft.

“Tagovailova is the most talented QB1 in the class with a game that’s eerily similar to a left-handed version of Drew Brees,” Brooks wrote. “Despite an injury history that could make some decision-makers pause, Tagovailova’s A-plus arm talent, athleticism and intangibles make him an intriguing option as a franchise quarterback.

It should be noted that Brooks also had high praise for Burrow and described him as a “high IQ playmaker with outstanding rhythm” and “superb touch.” Most people consider it a foregone conclusion that the Cincinnati Bengals will select Burrow with the top overall pick, but perhaps Tagovailoa going No. 1 should not be ruled out yet.

Tagovailoa reportedly got very positive news at his hip scan earlier in the week, and he has a plan in place to throw for NFL scouts before the draft. All signs point to him making a full recovery from what looked like a devastating injury.

Tua’s stock should continue to rise over the next two months. He seems like a lock for the first round despite his lengthy injury history.