Daniel Jeremiah: USC’s Caleb Williams is more like Josh Allen than Patrick Mahomes

Mahomes is the NFL QB most readily compared to Caleb Williams, but one analyst thinks Josh Allen is the better comp.

USC quarterback Caleb Williams is one of the most discussed NFL prospects of the past 10 years, and it’s easy to see why.

After bursting onto the scene at Oklahoma as a true freshman in 2021, he followed head coach Lincoln Riley to USC last season. He was the top player in the country, leading the Trojans to an 11-3 record — their best finish since 2017 — and taking home the Heisman Trophy. Williams set USC single-season marks for total offense (4,919 yards), passing yards (4,537) and touchdowns (52), among his many record-breaking feats. He carved up defenses with a dual-threat ability that has captured the imaginations of NFL scouts.

NFL.com draft expert Daniel Jeremiah recently did an evaluation of the Trojans’ quarterback. He felt Williams’ skills are comparable to two of the best signal-callers in the NFL, Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs and Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills.

In his scouting report on NFL.com, Jeremiah understands that Mahomes is the “popular comparison” for Williams. However, Jeremiah believes Williams has more similarities to Allen, the Bills’ quarterback.

“Patrick Mahomes is going to be the popular comparison for Williams. I can see it. They are both so creative and deliver the ball accurately from different launch points and arm angles,” Jeremiah stated. “However, from a style and skill set perspective, I think he has more in common with Josh Allen.

“Obviously, Allen is much taller (6-foot-5), but they are similar athletes as runners and both guys aren’t afraid to seek out contact. They possess elite arm strength to power outside shots versus Cover 2. They like to read plays top down, always hunting for the big opportunity. Also, they can take speed off the ball, showing touch on screens and quick hitters. Allen has solidified himself as a top three quarterback in the NFL, and I see that type of upside in Williams.”

[lawrence-auto-related count=1 tag=696092335]