Iowa’s Nate Stanley: Will the NFL Draft Buzz Turn Into a Surprising Pick?

Nate Stanley’s increasing stats and wins over the past two seasons place him in many conversations as a legitimate 2020 NFL draft pick. Even in a crowded field among draft-eligible quarterbacks. A pro-style quarterback at 6’4” and 243 lbs, he immediately checks the NFL QB size box. We know it takes a lot more than that to generate draft buzz.  

Stanley has risen through the ranks not because of an explosive system, but by blue-collar grit—consistent, season-by-season improvement and winning. Last season’s 2,852 completion yards were a 400-yard increase from his sophomore campaign. He’s protected the ball by averaging just eight interceptions during each of the last two seasons.

Earning a 17-9 record, Stanley owns a good number of wins in the tough Big Ten and beyond. He was front and center in the 55-24 thrashing of College Football Playoff hopeful Ohio State in 2017. He has since led the team in two bowl victories. His most recent a three-touchdown performance in January’s Outback Bowl against a tough Mississippi State defense that yielded three first-round NFL draft picks.     

Nate Stanley is trending upward, but what really has to happen for him to be cemented in as a legitimate day one NFL draft pick? Here is what needs to go right this season to make it a reality.

Improve decision-making

Stanley’s 2018 completion percentage was a hair under 60%, which isn’t eye-popping despite improvement over 2017. The percentage will improve if he continues to reduce the nonsensical throws and takes more shots at extending plays. This will require more athleticism than what we’re used to seeing. His new and returning receivers need to be all-in, and we’ll get to that next. 

Help his new targets succeed

With the departure of prolific pass catchers Nick Easley, T.J. Hockenson, and Noah Fant to the NFL, Stanley will have different looks on the field. The receiving corps–led by returning and talented receivers Ihmir Smith-Marsette and Brandon Smith–are expected to help fill the void, providing they are up to the task. However, two alone won’t be enough for the team to build a consistent passing attack that brings higher-level QB production. 

Personal preparation, coaching, and adjusting the playbook to the strengths of the remaining (and untested) receivers and tight ends are beyond a quarterback’s control. However, Stanley’s off- and in-season leadership and ability to execute the passing game with new talent will be an important factor in the team’s success and, ultimately, his own.

The offense plays with an open field, and this means an improved running game

Iowa’s running attack ranked 86th among FBS schools in 2018. The good news is that Iowa brings back a big and experienced offensive line with future NFL talent for 2019. Add returning running back Mekhi Seargent and several other talented rock runners, and Iowa has the tools to establish a running game that’s more respected and opens more passing lanes. 

Be a factor in winning more key games

With a few signature wins, Stanley has also been in the middle of several key losses. He will need to flip the close ones. The NFL loves quarterbacks who exude leadership that takes control of big games. If he makes it to the Big 10 Championship, consider this box checked. Iowa’s schedule is loaded with tough games. With so much parity in the Big 10 West this season, Stanley’s game leadership will be tested in close battles. 

As Nate Stanley’s star continues to rise, he needs to make it brighter to nail a significant draft spot. It will come down to his decision-making on the field, ability to execute with new talent, his leadership in winning key games, and an offense that consistently runs on all cylinders–from players to coaches. If NFL scouts continue to see another year of improvement in key statistical areas, Nate Stanley will be a day one draft pick. 

Oh, if the NCAA is in a good mood, a player by the name of Oliver Martin will help, too. 

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