Jordan Rodgers

Just as his famous brother, Aaron Rodgers, did before learning under Jeff Tedford at Cal, Jordan Rodgers took the JUCO route through Butte College before signing on with Vanderbilt. He led Butte to the first undefeated season in school history and the 2008 JUCO national title by throwing for 2,219 yards and 19 touchdowns during his sophomore season. Rodgers redshirted his first year at Vanderbilt due to a shoulder injury that ultimately required surgery. He began the 2011 season as the backup to Larry Smith, but saw time throughout the year and excited the fans when his first attempt as a Commodore resulted in a 30-yard scoring strike against Elon. Rodgers was thrust into the starting role when Smith was injured against Georgia and he wound up starting the final seven games of the season, including the Commodores' loss to Cincinnati in the Liberty Bowl. Along the way, he nearly engineered upsets on the road against Arkansas and versus Florida. He completed 50% of his passes and threw only slighter more touchdowns (10) than interceptions (nine) in 2011 but made significant strides a year later, seeing all of his numbers improve (59.9%, with 15 touchdowns and just five interceptions)... and remember, unlike his brother, Jordan's success came against SEC competition. As with any sibling of an NFL star, Jordan will be unfairly compared to his older brother. Jordan isn't a future NFL MVP but that doesn't mean he won't find a niche in the league. Today's spread offenses stretch defenses east to west, meaning mobile, gutty passers lacking the traditional size and arm to go north and south can be successful.

weaknesses

Considerably shorter than preferred does not appear to have the incredible field vision which allows other short quarterbacks (like Drew Brees, Russell Wilson, etc.) to compensate. Average arm strength. Needs a clean pocket and room to step into long-distance throws. When he isn't allowed to step toward his target, Rodgers' passes tend to flutter, as do too many of his deep passes, which could prove to be his Achilles' heel as NFL defenses will crowd close and force him to beat them over the top.

strengths

Short, but otherwise possesses a reasonably stout and athletic build for the quarterback position. Boasts the same quick-strike release that has helped his brother compensate for his lack of elite size (6020, 223 at 2007 Combine). Appears to have just average arm strength, overall, but possesses impressive velocity on short and intermediate throws, as the ball zips out of his hand.

compares to

Tyler Thigpen, QB, Buffalo Bills

rifles in-breaking routes, showing the confidence to throw receivers open against tight press coverage. good touch down the seam and sidelines, as well. consistently hits his receivers in stride, giving them opportunities to make yardage after the catch. athletic. buys time in the pocket, showing some slippery moves to escape and keeps his eyes downfield. sets up pass rushers, showing the ability to pump-fake and get defenders off their feet to run around them or help his receiver break open. gritty. plays with a chip on his shoulder and isn't intimidated by the size/speed of sec competition.

Very willing to run when the pocket breaks down, rushing for 420 yards as a junior (and four scores). Developed into more of a pocket passer in his second season as a starter, rushing for just 71 yards (and two scores). Voted a team captain in 2012. Helped lead Vanderbilt to a 7-4 record in 2012, one of the best seasons in school history. Highly competitive and dedicated to his craft.

Started at QB as Pleasant Valley, helping team to 8-3-1 record and state sectionals as junior

Also lettered in basketball and track.

Jordan Edward Rodgers

Son of Ed and Darla Rodgers

Born Aug. 30, 1988

Youngest of three brothers: Luke and Aaron, who earned the 2011 Super Bowl MVP Award by guiding the Green Bay Packers to world championship

Dad is a chiropractor in Chico

Enjoys golf

Rodgers is expected to complete a degree in Human and Organizational Development this December. He is a 2010 and 2011 SEC Academic Honor Roll recipient.