Matt Barkley Reportedly Opts Not to Throw at 2013 NFL Combine

Matt Barkley reportedly will not throw at the 2013 NFL Scouting Combine.

Adam Schefter of ESPN.com has the latest: 

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The separated shoulder USC quarterback Matt Barkley suffered last season will prevent him from throwing at this week's scouting combine in Indianapolis, according to league sources.

Barkley still might decide to run and jump for NFL teams, but he will not throw, sources said.

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As a potential first-round selection, neglecting to throw at the combine will—at least for the time being—put a limit on Barkley's 2013 NFL draft status.

Opting out of the drill, however, is also not surprising.

Barkley's injury occurred in mid-November against the Pac-12 rival UCLA Bruins.

This is a smart move by Barkley because he is still one of top quarterbacks in the 2013 class. Given the overall lack of talent at the position in comparison to the 2012 quarterback class, Barkley's decision won't drop him too far.

Plus, the pro day is another opportunity to put his arm on display before the draft.

Having completed above 63 percent of his passes over the past two seasons, along with 75 touchdowns to only 22 picks in that same span, Barkley has the talent to quickly develop.

Not to mention the fact that he threw for 6,801 yards between 2011 and 2012 and did so while taking most of his snaps from under center. That style makes him more NFL-ready than most and will allow him to make a fast transition into pro football.

Whether it's dropping back, selling play-action fakes or making pre-snap reads, experience from under center and multiple formations is a competitive advantage against some other quarterback prospects. 

It's simply a smart move to remain patient when it comes to health.