BIOGRAPHY: Tulane transfer who's started the past four seasons at Abilene Christian, winning all-Conference honors since his sophomore campaign. Passing totals last year included 62.5%/3,213/36/8 after 64.2%/3,914/37/14 as a junior. Started his career at Tulane in 2002 and will be 26 years old by the time the season starts. Was not medically cleared to play at Tulane because of a heart issue.

POSITIVES: Malone was ultra-productive on a small-school level, and he will have an opportunity to backup in a West Coast or timing offense at the next level if he is medically cleared to play.

NEGATIVES: Cannot drive deep passes, and gets into trouble trying to throw the ball down the field. Not a quarterback who picks up yardage with his legs. Medical issues may throw up red flags around the league.

ANALYSIS: Poised quarterback who makes proper decisions in the pocket. Patient, displays excellent field vision and overall awareness. Remains calm as the pocket collapses around him, shows the ability to get to the outside, and consistently looks downfield throwing on the move. Goes through receiver progressions, quickly locates the open wideout ,and accurate in the short or intermediate field. Puts touch on throws when necessary and does a terrific job leading the offense.

PROJECTION: FA