NFL Draft 2013: Matt Barkley’s Stock Back on the Rise
By Josh Sanchez
With the 2013 NFL Draft approaching and no clear cut No. 1 quarterback, USC Trojans quarterback Matt Barkley is watching his draft stock back on the rise. There are questions about Barkley’s arm strength, but he was able to impress draft scouts and NFL personnel during the interview process at the NFL Scouting Combine and showed incredible tangibles during the process.
“I think Barkley is special that way. He has some ‘it’ factor to him. The personality is there with Barkley,” one NFL general manager told the National Football Post. “We ask them questions, try to get a feel for how much they love football, and see if they have a special trait that makes people want to be around them and listen to them. It all comes through with him.”
According to the National Football Post:
"So which prospect in this draft has the best combination of intangibles and ability? According to multiple front office men surveyed by NFP, it’s Southern Cal’s Matt Barkley. As a result, some believe his stock is back on the rise after taking a season-long dip.Different execs lauded Barkley for his anticipation, his communication skills, his personality that lights up a room, and his pocket presence. Another said he had the best instincts and ability to see the field."
There is one head coach currently in the NFL that knows more about Barkley than anyone else in the league — Seattle Seahawks head man Pete Carroll.
“No question Barkley is loaded with intangibles,” Carroll said. “He has everything everybody wants. He has had it for some time. He knows what it’s like to be on a big stage at an early age and handle it impeccably.”
If Barkley can continue to impress throughout the remainder of the draft process, he has a real round one. shot to go in the first half of round one. Do you think Barkley is worth a high first-round pick?