2013 NFL Scouting Combine Preview

Dec 29, 2012; Bronx, NY, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers quarterback Geno Smith (12) warms up prior to the start of the 2012 New Era Pinstripe Bowl against the Syracuse Orange at Yankee Stadium. Syracuse defeated West Virginia 38-14. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

Quarterbacks

With the 2013 NFL Scouting Combine right around the corner, I thought I’d do a little preview series to look ahead to the prospects at each positional group. Where better to start than at the quarterback position.

What to Watch

For quarterbacks, it’s the total package. Obviously, the arm strength is the key. You want to watch the quarterbacks make all the throws. Watch to see if the quarterback can make hit the 15-yard out. In the new NFL, 40 times will be important too. You want to see not only speed, but quickness. Keep an eye on the 20 yard shuttle drill and 3-cone drill too.

Top Prospects

Geno Smith, West Virginia
Matt Barkley, USC
Tyler Wilson, Arkansas
Mike Glennon, NC State
Ryan Nassib, Syracuse

Analysis

This class is nowhere near the 2012 draft class that produced Andrew Luck and RGIII at the top of the draft and Russell Wilson in the 3rd round. Geno Smith might be the only quarterback worthy of a high round selection while Barkley will regret going back to school.

The Bears

It will be interesting to see what Marc Trestman and the Bears do with their quarterback position. Jay Cutler is the only quarterback signed through 2013 unless you count undrafted rookie Matt Blanchard. Trestman scouted Wilson at NC State, so he’s got an eye for talent. The Bears only have five draft picks, but they’ll need a developmental quarterback behind Jay.

Is there a quarterback prospect you’d like to see the Bears go after? Are any of these QB’s going to stack up to the Class of 2012? Let’s see your thoughts.