Could Behren Morton Be the Top QB in the 2027 NFL Draft?
Could Behren Morton Be the Top QB in the 2027 NFL Draft?
Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton has spent the spring of 2026 answering every question about his health and arm talent. After a 2025 season where he threw for 3,650 yards and 28 touchdowns, Morton has emerged as the face of the Big 12. His performance in the Red-Black spring game last weekend showcased a refined pocket presence and a deep-ball accuracy that has NFL scouts salivating. If he continues this trajectory, the conversation about him being a top-five pick in next year's draft is no longer a whisper—it is a roar.
The Red Raiders are coming off an 8-5 season in 2025, capped by a high-scoring 38-20 win over Tulane in the Independence Bowl. In that game, Morton was nearly flawless, completing 72% of his passes and demonstrating a command of Zach Kittley’s air-raid offense that few have matched in Lubbock since the Patrick Mahomes era. The chemistry between Morton and his receiving corps, specifically breakout star Reggie Virgil, has been the highlight of the April practice sessions.
Navigating the Big 12 Gauntlet
The 2026 Texas Tech roster is arguably the deepest of the Joey McGuire era. With the return of four starting offensive linemen and a backfield that features the bruising Tahj Brooks (who opted for a final season), Morton is surrounded by elite weaponry. The team averaged 31.5 points per game in 2025, and with Morton’s improved decision-making, that number is expected to climb. His ability to extend plays with his legs, while remaining a pass-first threat, makes the Red Raiders one of the most difficult offenses to scheme against.
The NFL Buzz Grows
Draft analysts have been frequenting Lubbock this spring, primarily to evaluate Morton’s shoulder health, which had been a concern earlier in his career. Reports from camp suggest his velocity is higher than ever. Morton’s 2025 stats—3,650 yards, 28 TDs, and only 7 interceptions—reflect a quarterback who has learned to balance aggression with ball security. In the 2025 bowl win, his ability to manipulate safeties with his eyes was cited by commentators as "pro-level manipulation."
As of April 17, 2026, the Red Raiders are projected to be a dark horse for the Big 12 title. The schedule is favorable, with home games against Oklahoma State and West Virginia. For Morton, the 2026 season isn't just about winning games; it’s about solidifying his legacy in Lubbock and proving that he can be the next great quarterback to transition from the South Plains to the Sunday stage. With McGuire’s energy and Morton’s arm, the "Wreck 'Em" spirit is at an all-time high.
