Alabama Football Recruiting National Signing Day 2017: Player Profiles: Tua Tagovailoa

Tua Tagovailoa (QB)

Back in May, Alabama gained the commitment of Tagovailoa, then a rising 4-star prospect out of St. Louis in Oahu, Hawaii. After watching his film, and writing up the commitment, I gushed:

Besides his nice touch, quick release, and ability to extend the play, Tua has exceptional feet. If the offense in these highlights look familiar, it's because it's very much the same one Alabama ran with Blake Sims: there are a whole lot of old run-and-shoot concepts in here, as well as a few read-option looks. But, Tua is not a pure spread-option QB: He is a true dual threat from a passing-friendly background. As Josh notes below, he keeps his eyes downfield, even when the pocket breaks down -- he's looking to make the play with his arm. Still, you can't help but be impressed by his running ability on the occasions when he does take off.

The 6’2”, 216 Tua would do more than get a “Bama bump,” he obliterated quarterback competition at The Opening and was named its outstanding player. The southpaw was invited to the Elite 11 QB camp, and made the Army and Under-Armour All-American teams. By the time he signed his financial aid paperwork and enrolled early, Tagovailoa had earned his fifth-star and was the No. 3 quarterback in the class (and, for my money with his leadership and intangibles, is probably the best of the class.)

Here are some of Tua Tagovailoa’s highlights,

Scout’s final report emphasizes his strength as well:

Tagovailoa is a strong armed lefty with a cannon for an arm. He’s a dual threat quarterback who can escape pressure and make big plays with his legs. He also shows the poise to make that first defender miss, roll out and throws very good on the run. He has a strong body and plays with plenty of toughness. He shows very nice tough on the deeper throws and projects as a high major QB at the next level