MSU Moorhead QB Jack Strand Emerges as NFL Draft Sleeper

Patriots, Raiders, Steelers, and 49ers among teams eyeing the 'off-platform' passer

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:21pm

A cubist-style painting depicting a quarterback in the midst of an off-balance throw, with the figure and ball broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes.An abstract illustration captures the unorthodox throwing mechanics and off-platform playmaking of quarterback prospect Jack Strand.Moorhead Today

Jack Strand, the quarterback from Division II school MSU Moorhead, is generating buzz as a potential late-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Despite playing at a smaller program, Strand has impressed scouts with his size, arm strength, and ability to make plays when the pocket breaks down, leading to potential landing spots with teams like the Patriots, Raiders, Steelers, and 49ers.

Why it matters

Strand's unique skill set and ability to thrive in unstructured situations could make him an intriguing developmental prospect for NFL teams looking to add depth and competition at the quarterback position. His success at the Division II level also highlights the importance of scouting beyond the Power 5 conferences.

The details

At 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, Strand has the prototypical size and arm strength that NFL teams covet. What sets him apart, however, is his comfort level when the play breaks down - he can slide, reset, and deliver accurate throws from different arm angles and platforms. While his mechanics can be inconsistent at times, leading to some errant passes, Strand's ability to make plays on the move is what has scouts intrigued.

  • Strand will enter the 2026 NFL Draft as a Day 3 prospect.

The players

Jack Strand

A quarterback from Division II school MSU Moorhead who has generated buzz as a potential late-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft due to his size, arm strength, and ability to make plays when the pocket breaks down.

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What’s next

Scouts will continue to monitor Strand's progress leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, with teams like the Patriots, Raiders, Steelers, and 49ers potentially targeting him as a developmental quarterback option on Day 3.

The takeaway

Jack Strand's unique skill set and ability to make plays outside the structure of the offense could make him an intriguing late-round pick for NFL teams looking to add depth and competition at the quarterback position. His success at the Division II level also highlights the importance of scouting beyond the Power 5 conferences.