Ryder Lyons
Bio
Recruiting
Scouting Report
A highly productive, four-star dual-threat quarterback with a powerful build and a natural feel for making plays off-script. He possesses the arm talent to challenge all levels of the field and the athleticism to be a legitimate threat as a runner, making him one of the top prospects at his position in the 2026 class.
Physical Profile
Stands at a solid 6-foot-2.5 and 220 pounds with a thick, durable frame that is well-suited for the quarterback position. He is a good athlete with the functional mobility to escape pressure and create positive plays with his legs, both on designed runs and scrambles. His multi-sport background in basketball enhances his overall coordination and spatial awareness on the field.
Play Style
Lyons is a creative and instinctual quarterback who thrives in chaos. He operates with a 'never-say-die' attitude on every play, constantly searching for ways to move the chains. On film, he shows the ability to throw from multiple arm angles and platforms, often making accurate throws while on the move. He is a tough and physical runner who is not afraid of contact and shows good vision in the open field.
Strengths
- Elite improvisational skills and the ability to extend plays, consistently creating positive outcomes when the initial play breaks down.
- Legitimate dual-threat capability, evidenced by his impressive rushing statistics, including 929 yards and 23 touchdowns as a sophomore. He is a powerful runner who is difficult to bring down in the open field.
- Proven winner with a knack for performing in clutch situations, having led his team on multiple game-winning drives in championship contests.
Areas to Improve
- Can be too quick to abandon the pocket, sometimes looking to run before progressing through all of his reads.
- Continued refinement of his footwork and mechanics will lead to greater consistency and accuracy as a pure pocket passer.
College Projection
Expected to be a multi-year, high-impact starter at the Power Four level. After completing a planned one-year LDS mission, he will enroll at BYU in 2027. His skillset is a perfect fit for a modern spread offense that utilizes the quarterback's legs in the running game and allows for creative playmaking.
NFL Outlook
Possesses the physical traits, arm talent, and playmaking ability to be considered a future early-round NFL Draft prospect. His development in the nuances of the quarterback position at the collegiate level will ultimately determine his draft ceiling. If he continues on his current trajectory, he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback at the professional level.
Best Fit
A spread offensive scheme that incorporates quarterback runs, read-options, and allows for improvisational playmaking outside of the pocket would best utilize his unique talents. A system that values his creativity and doesn't try to pigeonhole him as a traditional pocket passer will allow him to flourish.
Player Comparison
Both prospects share the 6'2", 220 lb frame that suggests versatility between linebacker and safety positions, along with elite high school pedigree and top-40 national rankings. Te'o's combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ that made him a consensus All-American mirrors the type of impact player suggested by this prospect's elite composite rating and national ranking.