Ranking the prospective starting quarterbacks in the SEC
By Will Thomas
![Florida Gators quarterback Graham Mertz (15) looks to throw during the second half during the Florida Gators Orange and Blue Spring Game at Steve Spurrier Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, FL on Thursday, April 13, 2023. [Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun]Ncaa Football Florida Gators Orange Blue Spring Game](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_1080,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape%2Fcover%2Fsport%2F5657e7cdf0f9ddbd1c02775723afba53e43b59d7ca72f2ac728ef7af4ccb5772.jpg "Florida Gators quarterback Graham Mertz (15) looks to throw during the second half during the Florida Gators Orange and Blue Spring Game at Steve Spurrier Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, FL on Thursday, April 13, 2023. [Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun]Ncaa Football Florida Gators Orange Blue Spring Game")
KJ Jefferson. 5. player. 844. . .
SEC football: The big man is back
When you first see KJ Jefferson you would think he’s a linebacker, standing at 6’3”-242. But no, he’s just a QB with a good arm and the ability to flatten you when he’s running.
After battling through some injuries last season, Jefferson is back for his 5th year and looking to go out strong.
Last season for the Hogs he threw for 2,648 yards, 24 touchdowns, and only five interceptions. He was also a serious threat on the ground, running for 640 yards and nine scores on 5.1 yards per carry.
Ever since he took over in Fayetteville in 2021 I’ve been a big fan of KJ’s. He has a great combination of running and passing and doesn’t have the inaccuracy concerns of other dual-threat QBs with a 68% completion rate.
The only concern with him is injuries. He seems to be banged up all the time, which can limit his ability to both run and pass.
If KJ can stay healthy this season he’ll be one of the top QBs in the SEC, and end his career on a high note.