One of the story lines to follow this season is the pro decision facing Southern California juniors and redshirt sophomores.
Pauline: Matt Kalil to enter 2012 NFL Draft after season, sources say
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The best of the bunch might be left tackle Matt Kalil, a junior. Tony Pauline of TFY Draft and SI.com reports that sources are telling him Kalil will opt for the 2012 NFL Draft after this season.
In his preview of the Trojans, Pauline rates Kalil as a first-round pick, calling him dominant with terrific size and upside. Kalil is the brother of Ryan Kalil of the Carolina Panthers. He recently signed a contract making him the highest-paid center in the NFL.
Pauline also rates junior quarterback Matt Barkley as a first-round pick and safety T.J. McDonald as either first- or second-round pick. The USC defense also features several underachieving juniors on defense, including ends Nick Perry and Devon Kennard.
Southern California is banned from playing in a bowl game or the Pac-12 championship this season.
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