Following a whirlwind comeback season, Fresno State standout quarterback Jake Haener began building his stock before the NFL Draft with a trip to Mobile, Ala. for the 2023 Senior Bowl.
At the conclusion of the NFL Draft season kickoff game, Haener managed to capture the top honors for his passing game.
By the numbers: Haener threw the game’s sole touchdown while splitting time with Louisville quarterback Malik Cunningham for the National team.
- Haener completed the day with a clean sheet, completing 12 of 19 passes for 139 yards.
Why it matters: The Senior Bowl, a game featuring handpicked likely NFL Draft prospects who have completed college eligibility. Squads are coached by coaching staffs from the NFL’s AFC and NFC.
- Haener is the third ever Fresno State passer to make the trek to Mobile before the NFL Scouting combine. In 2014, Derek Carr played in that year’s edition along with his brother, first overall pick David Carr, in 2002.
- Performance in the Senior Bowl, along with the NFL Combine in Indianapolis and Pro Days with team officials, are critical to building on college resumes to get higher draft selection in April.
What he’s saying: “I am just going to continue to do everything at a high level and prove those doubters wrong. “It feels good to get it done with the team, but at the same time, I love proving doubters wrong. I love the motivation … I love the passion that it brings me. Keep coming with it, it’s fun,” Haener told NFL Network following the game.
