NFL Scouting Combine 2013: Matt Barkley Say Combine is ‘Biggest Test’ of His Life

USC Trojans quarterback Matt Barkley entered his senior season viewed as an elite prospect, but a disappointing year has led to a fall in his draft stock. Instead of being considered a top ten pick by most, there is now some doubt that Barkley could even be a first-round pick.

Perception from NFL scouts about Barkley is all over the map, but he will have an opportunity to impress the scouts in Indianapolis at the NFL Scouting Combine.

It was initially believed that Barkley wouldn’t be healthy enough to throw, but Barkley has said that he will be ready to participate at the combine and take part in all drills. It’s going to be a big moment for the former Trojans star and he seems mentally equipped to handle the pressure.

“This is probably the biggest test of my life coming up,” Barkley said, per the Pensacola News Journal. “This is like the SAT times thousands. I hear the whole couple days is a grind. But I am looking forward to that challenge. I am excited about it.”

[RELATED: Full list of 2013 NFL Scouting Combine invitees]

It had to be tough for Barkley to have so many questions surrounding his game after entering the year as such a highly touted signal-caller. Luckily for him, the lasting impressions he will leave on NFL personnel will come during the interview process and at the combine and his Pro Day. The rough season was a growing experience for Barkley and he understands the process.

“It was tough in some circumstances, but I did have some great moments … some moments I will cherish,” Barkley said. “We had some unfortunate losses that put a damper on the year. But the experiences I accumulated these last couple months have prepared me better to go into the NFL right now as opposed to last year. So I wouldn’t trade it.”

It will be interesting to see how Barkley performs in Indianapolis. With a solid performance, he has the ability to jump right back into the quarterback discussion at the top half of round one.