NFL Draft 2013 Quarterbacks: Geno Smith, Ryan Nassib, Matt Barkley

Culture

Barkley, Nassib and Smith all have a chance to hear their names called tonight by Roger Goodell at Radio City.  Let's see what they have going for and against them on draft night.  

 

Matt Barkley - Southern Cal

Strengths

Barkley spent years in a pro-style offense and was able to make adjustments at the line of scrimmage with ease. He is extremely accurate inside of 15 yards and can buy time inside the pocket. Graded out favorably during team interviews and handled the spotlight in LA well during his four years.  

Weaknesses

Doesn't possess elite arm strength or measureables. Injured his knee and shoulder during his career in Los Angeles and needs to prove he's durable. Struggles against pressure.  

 

Ryan Nassib - Syracuse

 

Strengths

Played in an uptempo pro-style offense and carried an average Syracuse team to two bowl victories in his final three seasons. Nassib has a strong arm and a quick release. Does a fine job leading receivers and regularly completes passes in tight windows.  

Weaknesses

He'll need to add a few throws to his repertoire, namely the fade. Without the speed to run the read option, he needs to make every throw required of a pocket passer in the league. He'll need to tighten up his mechanics to become a consistent thrower at the pro level.   

 

Geno Smith - West Virginia

 

Strengths

Very mobile and accurate on the move. Can make big throws under duress, particularly the intermediate throws between 15-25 yards. Capable of running the read option out of the pistol.

Weaknesses

Doesn't possess the arm strength to consistently stretch the defense with his deep ball. His confidence can backfire from time to time, throwing INTs in double and triple coverage.