I don't see what the problem with asking this question is. The guy isn't saying Kaaya is our problem. I interpreted his question as him asking if he's athletic enough to become what we all hope he can become. At the college level, he's likely to be near elite regardless. If he wants to succeed at the next level and also win us big, meaningful games, he is going to have to continue to improve his athleticism - especially inside the pocket.
He has already improved a lot in one year. And, you can really tell the difference for Kaaya and our offense when he forcefully climbs the pocket. On the drive where he repeatedly converted 3rd down scenarios, he slid up in the pocket multiple times. There are times where he tends to drift. Perhaps not like Stephen Morris (Kaaya is taller and has a better release anyway), but enough to ask the question being asked in this thread.
If I had to list things Kaaya needs to work on this season and in the next offseason:
- Lateral movement INSIDE the pocket. Even a guy like Phillip Rivers moves around in a less than clean pocket. Kaaya has to do this better; he has time.
- Climbing quicker in the pocket. Last year, he was way below average in this department. This year, he's about average. I suspect he'll continue to work on his core and flexibility and be able to hit his back step on his drops and then CLIMB up in the pocket.
- Weight transfer from back to front foot is often average. Part of this is Gall and the guys getting thrown into his lap. Another part is that he seems to be fearful of overthrowing the ball at times. This isn't a big priority right now, I think.
- Throwing on the move. He'll get better. This is the least priority in his improvement right now, I think.
Someone have this dude work with an obsessive, technical QB coach, please. Even if in the offseason.
