Devin Leary reveals other college quarterbacks standing out at Manning Passing Academy

The 2023 Manning Passing Academy is underway this weekend at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, La., with dozens of the top high school and college quarterbacks showcasing their skills and refining different aspects of their game.

For many of the college quarterbacks, the event is a chance to rub shoulders with some peers, as well as see some former NFL greats.

New Kentucky quarterback Devin Leary was enjoying himself out there on Friday night as the college quarterbacks threw, and he even highlighted a few guys that have stood out to him so far.

“I do want to see Peyton Manning spin it a little bit more,” Leary said. “But nah, I thought even yesterday when we were throwing I saw a bunch of dudes spinning the ball. I thought Mike Penix threw it really well. Austin (Reed) at Western Kentucky threw it great. I mean really everyone that I’ve seen around here has been spinning the ball.”

Both Penix and Reed were tabbed Manning Passing Academy top performers on Friday night by On3.

Wrote On3 of Penix and his big night:

“Penix shined bright during the “Air it Out” Challenge, and he joined Joe Milton and Louisiana’s Ben Woolridge as the lone three quarterbacks to hit a moving golf cart on the vertical throw. After taking down Woolridge in the finals, Penix took home the “Air it Out” title, and from talking with staffers, there’s been a buzz around the Washington star all week.”

Reed also impressed, with the Western Kentucky star sticking around for another season after reportedly flirting with the idea of entering the NCAA transfer portal.

He could be poised for another big year if Friday night is any indication.

“Reed led the NCAA in passing yards this past season with 4,746,” On3 wrote. “He also tossed 40 touchdowns, solidifying his spot as one of the most productive passers in college football. That talent showed at the Manning Camp, with Reed flashing the ability to hit on everything from dig routes too deep balls.”

The Manning Passing Academy is held annually at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, La. It is run by the Manning family, with Archie Manning serving as the executive director and Peyton, Eli and Cooper Manning serving as senior associate directors.

The Bengal Tiger’s Shea Dixon contributed to this report.