Bailey Hockman adds much needed depth to FSU quarterback position

With backup QB Sean Maguire graduating and freshman Malik Henry transferring from the program, just two scholarship quarterbacks remained on Florida State roster —- Deondre Francois and J.J. Cosentino. Four-star early enrollee Bailey Hockman is now the third and could make an impact as soon as the 2017 season.

The left-handed quarterback from Powder Springs (GA) McEachern has been committed to FSU since April of 2016. He has been a familiar face on campus, making two unofficial visits before making his official visit in September when the ‘Noles hosted UNC. The Seminoles made sure Hockman was aware of their interest, showing up three separate times for an in-house visit, concluding with head coach Jimbo Fisher making the trip.

Among 2017 prospects, Hockman was ranked No. 297 in the nation according to 247Sports’ composite rankings. Additionally, he was the No. 12 pro QB in the ‘17 class and No. 31 player from his home state of Georgia.

Hockman, standing in at 6’2 and 192 pounds, had offers from 17 total schools, including Ohio State, Alabama, Michigan, Louisville, Stanford, and Miami, among others.

This past season at McEachern High School, the dual-sport athlete who plays baseball in the offseason threw for 2,604 yards on a 55.2% completion rate to go along with 25 touchdowns and a 99.9 QBR. Hockman also served as punter.

A high school coach on our staff evaluated Hockman thusly.

Bailey Hockman is a very high-floor quarterback prospect.

This is important for Jimbo Fisher and the Seminoles because of what is behind Deondre Francois (or rather, what isn’t— proven depth). He is a lefty, which always looks weird, but is a coach’s son who can really spin it. Hockman reminds me of Christian Ponder, a kid who does everything right and understands the game of football. He has good mobility that appears to catch defenders off guard as he runs around or by them.

Seeing Hockman drop 50-yard bombs in stride to receivers is just exciting, as FSU has missed that big play accuracy. He also has good accuracy throwing a ball that allows his receivers to run after the catch. Hockman has the ability to reach back for a little more velocity when he needs to fit it into a tight window. His compact motion allows him to get the ball out quickly. The quarterback led an advanced offense in high school, which bodes well for his future in Jimbo’s offense. The greatest compliment I can give Hockman is that he has a little Jameis in him, in that he has a knack for staying alive when defenders should have him sacked and makes something out of nothing.