QB Tra'Von Chapman Commits to Pitt

We all knew Chapman would commit to Pitt and he in fact has. The Kent (OH) dual-threat QB committed during an unofficial visit on Thursday. Ranked as the 11th best dual-threat QB by Rivals, the 4 star prospect had offers from Wisconsin, Arizona, Cincinnati, Illinois, and several others.

This is obviously a huge pick-up for Paul Chryst and Pitt after missing out on not only Dorian Johnson last week, but several of their other top QB choices such as Malik Zaire (Notre Dame) and Chavas Rawlins (WVU). With the QB spot locked down, the staff can now focus more on key areas (offensive and defensive line).

Given 3 stars by ESPN, here is what they have to say.

Chapman is a highly productive dual-threat quarterback that takes pride in clearly being a passer first, runner second. He is athletic and very consistent in his overall methods. We are not convinced he is quite as tall as his listed height, but he is well built and looks like a wide receiver. He is a shotgun, spread player that is extremely good on the move and a consistently productive deep ball passer. Possesses good arm strength and flashes the ability to put some heat on his throws if he needs to. Has extremely quick feet, stays active and does a nice job of creating passing windows with his mobility. He has adequate pocket presence, consistently buys second chances and appears comfortable throwing on the run. Sets up quickly and while he shows a little bit of a wind-up in his release, he does deliver the ball with confidence and authority and the ball jumps off his hand when his feet are set and he steps into his throws. He is capable of altering his motion to get the ball off if pressured, off balance or on the run to either side. Shows very good zip and ball speed to make some impressive throws to intermediate zones--especially between the numbers. He is very accurate in the deep passing game. Needs to be on time to drive the ball vertically as he does not have an elite arm. Drops the ball in over coverage very well. Chapman can be deliberate in his motion and wind-up just a bit which hinders the ability for the ball to just pop off his hand. As athletic as he is, he does not have blazing speed. He is quicker than fast. A very decisive runner with good lateral agility and the ability to make people miss. Is an excellent fit for the zone read scheme. Chapman is a very good player that will likely receive mid-major and BCS level offers when it is all said and done.

Chapman had a great junior season, throwing for over 2200 yards and completing 64% of his passes. He also threw 26 touchdowns while running in 8 more. Now with this decision behind him, he can focus on improving those numbers in his senior year.

Watching some highlights of him, you have to like his ability to throw the long ball. Just as the rundown from ESPN says, very accurate. His speed is a valuable asset to have and will almost guarantee him a spot on the field at some point, whether it's at QB or he gets moved around to another spot on offense.

Welcome to Pitt, Tra'von Chapman!