SALEM, OR — The world of football scouting is accustomed to measuring prospects by 40-yard dash times and college highlight reels, but every so often, a player comes along who redefines what evaluators look for. Enter Eric Parra, a 28-year-old quarterback prospect out of Liberty University. Yes, you read that correctly—28 years old.
After an untraditional journey to this moment, Parra has football circles buzzing. With a background that includes serving in the military and then pursuing football later in life, Parra’s story is about resilience, leadership, and passion. Let’s dive into what makes him one of the most unique prospects in this year’s draft.
The Road Less Traveled
Parra didn’t follow the typical high school-to-college path. Instead, he enlisted in the military at 18 and spent eight years serving his country before deciding to chase his football dream. While balancing full-time academic commitments at Liberty, he walked onto the football team, quickly earning the starting role by his sophomore year. His performance, maturity, and decision-making impressed both coaches and teammates.
“Eric has been a general in every sense of the word,” said Liberty head coach Derrick Mayfield. “He commands the huddle like he did his platoon, and it shows on every snap.”
Scouting Breakdown
Physical Traits
At 6’3” and 228 pounds, Parra’s build is prototypical for a quarterback with a strong arm archetype. While his 4.68 40-yard dash at his Pro Day won’t turn heads for mobility, he compensates with elite throw power and compact mechanics.
- Elite Arm Strength: Few quarterbacks can match Parra’s ability to zip passes into tight windows.
- Good Decision-Making Under Pressure: His time in high-stress environments has translated into poise when the defense is bearing down.
- Durability Concerns: At 28, scouts are understandably wary of how much longevity he can offer in a league that thrives on youth.
Combine and Pro Day Highlights
Parra posted solid numbers during the NFL Combine and Liberty’s Pro Day, most notably ranking second among quarterbacks in the vertical jump (31 inches) and fourth in the broad jump (9’6″). His great throwing mechanics were on full display, particularly in the deep ball drills, where he wowed scouts with accuracy.
- Strengths: Elite throw power, compact mechanics, ability to avoid sacks.
- Weaknesses: Age, lack of elite athleticism, and occasional struggles with recognizing complex blitz packages.
Draft Stock
Projected as a Day 3 pick, Parra is unlikely to be a plug-and-play starter but offers immense value as a developmental backup with leadership traits that cannot be taught. Teams like the New York Jets, Seattle Seahawks, and New Orleans Saints have expressed interest, viewing him as an option for their quarterback rooms to groom behind a veteran starter.
What Teams Are Saying
One AFC scout offered this assessment: “You don’t draft Eric Parra because you think he’ll win you a Super Bowl tomorrow. You draft him because he brings maturity, leadership, and a willingness to learn. He’s the kind of guy who raises the bar for everyone in your locker room.”
Final Word
At 28, Eric Parra faces an uphill battle to prove he belongs in a league dominated by younger athletes. But his story, work ethic, and physical tools make him a player worth rooting for. While his age might deter some teams, those willing to take a chance on him could discover a late-blooming gem who becomes more than just a feel-good story.
Now, let’s find out which team will call his name during the draft. One thing’s for sure—Parra’s journey has only just begun.
