While most of Denver was preparing for Brock Osweiler’s debut performance as starter last week, one of Colorado’s best quarterbacks quietly made his own debut.
24-year-old Garrett Grayson left Colorado State as the school’s all-time passing yards leader. Throughout his senior year, Grayson showed his potential as an NFL quarterback and in doing so, was selected in the third round, 75th overall, in the 2015 NFL draft by the New Orleans Saints. After first- and second-overall picks Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota, Grayson was the top quarterback selected in the draft.
With the NFL preseason now in full swing, Grayson was given his first opportunity to feature in an NFL game as the Saints took on the Baltimore Ravens last Thursday night.
Grayson played more than a full quarter and showed some great moments. In total, Grayson went 8-of-12 for 87 yards and led the Saints to what could have been a game-winning touchdown. Grayson also had two QB rushes for a combined 15-yards. The Ravens would rally late to win the game, but Grayson definitely put in a good performance.
“I think I definitely made some progress,” Grayson said following the game. “Obviously going against another team and getting different looks than what you are used to in practice. There’s a first time for everything, you have to adjust to the speed of the game as well. It’s just something that’s a learning process and I know it’s going to come with it.”
Saints head coach Sean Payton has liked what he has seen from the former Ram so far.
“I think the key is the learning curve and the comfort level of knowing the information – knowing it real well so that you can go out and execute. I think the progress has been encouraging,” Payton said.
With Drew Brees the entrenched starter for the Saints, Grayson is competing with Ryan Griffin and Luke McCown for the backup role. Depending on if the Saints keep a third quarterback on the roster, the upcoming three preseason games will be the perfect opportunity for Grayson to climb up the depth chart and prove to the Saints that he can be relied upon if need be.
Unlike past Colorado State quarterback Bradlee Van Pelt who only lasted two years in the NFL, Grayson seems more of a prototypical NFL quarterback and the Saints will hope he continues to develop in an upwards trajectory.
Sammy Mugharbil, a Mile High Sports intern and student at MSU-Denver, contributed to this report