NFL futures bright for several Pac-12 quarterbacks

Stanford’s Andrew Luck is a lock to be the first player selected in next years NFL draft, but he’s not alone when it comes to Pac-12 quarterbacks with NFL futures.

Juniors Matt Barkley from USC and ASU’s Brock Osweiler, along with Arizona senior Nick Foles all appear to have bright futures at the next level.

“I think you have a lot of really good pro prospects,” ESPN college football analyst Brock Huard told Scott Peters and Grey Ruegamer on “Big Guy on Sports” Wednesday. “Luck’s at the top of list. Barkley is a couple steps behind. Nick Foles his playing himself up into that first/second-round conversation.”

Although Barkley has a year of eligibility remaining, many expect him to forgo his senior year and enter the NFL draft. Through eight games, Barkley has thrown 22 touchdowns and only five interceptions.

The 6’8 Osweiler has also caught the attention of NFL scouts in his first full year under center with the Sun Devils.

“I love how he’s grown,” Huard said describing Osweiler. “I love how he handled an adverse situation at Autzen Stadium (in Eugene). How he went to Illinois and got beat up and sacked a bunch, but has really grown from difficult situations.”

A 2-6 record and mid-season coaching change isn’t what Foles was hoping for when he decided to return last spring for his senior year at UofA, but his numbers can not be overlooked as he’s completed 70% of his passes for just under 3000 yards and 20 touchdowns.

Huard said the conversation doesn’t stop there when it comes to quarterback depth in the Pac-12.

“This conference, right behind the Big 12, is loaded with talent top to bottom at that position and I think a lot of guys will play a long time at the next level.”

ESPN Analyst Brock Huard on ‘Big Guy on Sports’