When it comes to recruiting classes, the early commitments can often times get forgotten about by fans as the class begins to fill. With Penn State’s 2019 class, quarterback Taquan Roberson may have been a victim of this. Despite being one of the better quarterback prospects in the country in this cycle, Roberson is often times overlooked by Nittany Lion fans when discussing the 2019 recruiting class. The fact Roberson become the second commit in the class way back in October 2017 may be a reason why.

Vitals

Highlights

Scouting Report

At 5-foot-11, 193 pounds it is impossible to avoid people comparing Roberson to Trace Mcsorley. Both are slightly undersized, gritty, and winners at the quarterback position. Quarterbacking DePaul Catholic in the New Jersey Non-Public League, Roberson led the Spartans to a state championship in 2017 and a berth in the game in 2018.

Roberson is not quite the athlete that McSorley is, but he is a better pure passer than Trace. Also, Roberson is no statue in the pocket. He can use his legs to extend plays, dodge defenders, avoid sacks, and pick up yards on the ground.

On short and intermediate throws, Roberson puts great zip on his throws. He also has the arm strength to make accurate throws down the field and throws a pretty deep ball. He can throw well on the move, and, to his credit, will not just tuck the ball and run at the first sign of trouble.

Outlook

Roberson is one of 11 early enrollees in Penn State’s 2019 recruiting class. While Roberson is destined to redshirt in 2019, the sooner he gets entrenched in Dwight Galt’s strength and conditioning program the better. It will also benefit him to begin to work with and learn the Penn State playbook six months earlier than he would have otherwise.

As a redshirt freshman in 2020, Roberson should have the opportunity to compete for a starting job. However, it is more likely that his time will come as a redshirt sophomore or redshirt junior after serving as Sean Clifford’s backup for one or two seasons.