Scout: NFL Coaches “Are Going To Fall In Love” With Matt Barkley’s Presence

Rob Rang of CBSSports.com spoke with a scout who believes NFL coaches will “fall in love” with USC QB Matt Barkley during the draft process.

“Sure, he has some physical limitations but so much of playing quarterback in the NFL is about toughness and leadership,” the scout said, via Rang. “He’s been through the wars at USC and knows how to handle himself.”

Barkley was the consensus No. 1 overall pick heading into the season, but things haven’t played out as many assumed they would for both Barkley and USC. There’s been a lot of talk about Barkley’s lack of physical tools, but that apparently won’t be enough to sway teams from taking him in the first-round of next year’s NFL draft.

The scout added that Barkley’s “presence” should convince coaches that he’ll be able to handle himself as a rookie in the NFL, which could be what separates him from some of the other quarterback prospects in next year’s draft class.

While it’s certain that Barkley will be a first round pick in this upcoming draft, it’s unknown which team will target the quarterback due to his physical limitations. However, Barkley’s showing of leadership and toughness is enough to make some believe he’s a top-15 pick.

We have Barkley going seventh overall to the Cardinals in our 2013 NFL Mock Draft.