2022 NFL Draft: 5 outstanding performances from the NFLPA Bowl
By Dante Pryor
Chase Garbers, quarterback: California
What made watching California senior quarterback Chase Garbers so much fun during this game and in practice is getting to see him attempt throws that he did not make while at California. Garbers did not throw the football deep and to the boundary often at Cal.
Since Garbers rarely threw the football downfield, his arm strength was always questioned. Much of that speculation was put to rest Saturday afternoon as Garbers completed nine passes for 119 yards, including a beautifully placed over-the-shoulder ball to receiver Dai’Juan Dixon of Nicholls.
Garbers also threw a nearly flawless slant to receiver Jequez Ezzard for the first touchdown of the game. The senior quarterback showed tremendous poise in the pocket and scramble when needed.
He’s the type of player who benefits from this process. Garbers is looking for an invitation to the NFL combine (and they should invite him) and has an opportunity to show his ability at California’s pro day. Garbers is the type of player that can out-test his stats and tape because of the Bears’ conservative offensive philosophy.
The only negative to Garbers is the injury history. He’s been nicked much of his career in Berkley. However, Garbers should be in a camp this fall at worst.