July 3, 2026, 8:55 p.m. CT
While the NFL seems to be leaning toward the more mobile quarterbacks, there still seems to be a home for pocket passers. However, there are a few starters left who don’t often leave the pocket. Pocket passers are becoming a dime-a-dozen in college, but NC State’s CJ Bailey is more old-school, with a prototypical build who stays in the pocket but has sneaky upside in short-yardage carries. What does his summer scouting report look like? Let’s talk about it.
Height: 6’6″Weight: 210 lbsRecruiting rank: Three-star recruit, no. 24 QB nationally in 2024Hometown: Hollywood, FloridaGames watched: Wake Forest, Duke, Notre Dame, Georgia Tech, Miami, FSUStrengths:NFL coaches will drool over his frame, especially if he adds 10-15 lbsDoes a great job working through progressionsFootwork is a plus. His ability to climb the pocket is among the best in the classDrives the ball down the field with ease, dropping deep passes in the bucketSix rushing touchdowns were a surprise last seasonPlayed arguably his best game against #8 Georgia Tech, throwing for 340 yards and two touchdownsWeaknesses:Must work on the short-area accuracyTends to be overly aggressive when down, as shown by his three interceptions against Notre DameBrings very little in terms of play creation. Very limited playmakerHe *can* extend plays when needed, but he does not look to do it oftenCould use those 10-15 added lbs this seasonExpert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.
CJ Bailey has a ton of potential. His massive frame will have NFL teams interested, and his ability to read a defense post-snap is great. However, the accuracy must improve, and he should trust his legs a little more. As things stand, Bailey gets a fourth-round grade and would be a very intriguing camp quarterback to have compete for a QB2 spot.