As general manager Brian Gutekunst put it, a run of quarterbacks they liked less than Clifford occurred just before Clifford’s selection. For a point of reference, Jack Haener, Stetson Bennett, Aidan O’Connell, Clayton Tune and Dorian Thompson-Robinson were all drafted at the position in a 14-pick run.
They picked hiim because they thought he wouldn't last much longer.
Apparently he aced his interview with them and think he's a good fit. He's athletic, but if all he does is hold a clipboard I'm fine with it. Arm strength can be improved to an extent in the weight room, it's the accuracy, poise, and reading defenses/progressions that I'm more concerned about. Purdy didn't have a cannon arm before he needed Tommy John surgery.