Desert Diaries: 2029 Quarterbacks From Arizona On The Radar

The greater Phoenix and greater Tucson area traditionally turn out some very talented football players at all positions. Looking specifically at the Quarterback position, notable NFL names such as Rodney Peete and Ryan Fitzpatrick called Arizona home during their amateur days. Here's a look at five eighth-grade (class of 2029) signal callers who are on their way to bring futures in the sport.    Reclassed Quarterback who lists himself nearly four inches and 25 pounds heavier than a year ago. Served as QB1 on the AYF Phoenix 14U All-Stars in December 2024, one year after being part of a QB by committee on last year's 14U All-Star team. It's difficult to tell how accurate his reported measurements truly are, but he is noticeably bigger and more his overall game has come leaps and bounds since last season. Multiple sources I've spoken to in the greater Phoenix area, think he's the best Quarterback in the state for the class of 2029.     Righty Quarterback with a very strong, yet accurate arm. While I have not seen him play live at this point, on film there are a ton of things to like. He's reportedly listed at 5-foot-10 and 145-pounds, and while the height looks accurate--he does appear to be a little thicker/heaver than his listed weight. I think the word potential is fitting here, for Cooper. Everything from frame, to build, to throwing motion is really intriguing. With continued development, I see no reason why Cooper shouldn't become one of the better QBs in Arizona in the 2029 class.     Frazier made a ton of mainstream noise in September 2024, as he reportedly received his first verbal offer from Arizona State. While he's still at least four years and change away from potentially suiting up for suiting up for the Sun Devils, there is a ton to love about the potential here. Size--reportedly standing 6-foot-2 and 180-pounds as of December 2024. Genetics - his Father, Derrick, was a third-round pick of Eagles in 1993. Program - Played this year for the FTF Kodiaks youth program, which serves as the feeder program for Basha High School; A program that hasn't finished lower than 5th in the state since 2021. On top of that, there's already a reported NIL deal with BrandBoss LLC. BUY. STOCK. NOW.     Without question the most athletic of the five Quarterbacks in this write up, [player_tooltip player_id='1522409' first='Amil' last='Deon'] is as electric as they come when looking across Arizona for the class of 2029. On film he looks like an absolute natural at the Quarterback position. Has the footwork and fundamentals down. Stands tall and possesses a wonderful, smooth, crisp throwing motion. Transfers weight like a pro and just checks every box for me. The reason for the "ATH/QB" distinction is because he also plays Defensive Back at a high level too. His quickness and football IQ is obvious in the number of passes he either deflected, intercepted or disrupted in some capacity. He's a really good looking prospect on both sides of the ball.     Zellner spent the 2024 season doing nothing but producing and putting up impressive numbers. The right-handed Quarterback for the Chander Lobos completed 63% of passes for 1,385 yards and 23 touchdowns. When the balanced Quarterback wasn't tossing the rock all over the barn, he showed off his mobility to the tune of 509 rushing yards and 10 additional touchdowns. Looks like a high school upperclassmen playing the position. Obviously well-trained by keeping two hands on the ball in the pocket. Eyes are constantly downfield, even while escaping pressure. Changes arm angles on passes like a Pro.

The greater Phoenix and greater Tucson area traditionally turn out some very talented football players at all positions. Looking specifically at the Quarterback position, notable NFL names such as Rodney Peete and Ryan Fitzpatrick called Arizona home during their amateur days. Here's a look at five eighth-grade (class of 2029) signal callers who are on their way to bring futures in the sport.