NFL Combine 2013: Top quarterbacks invited

Last year featured one the greatest groups of rookie quarterbacks in NFL history and while this year doesn’t offer nearly the same level of talent, there are still plenty of intriguing prospects. In fact, because the class of 2013 is much less heralded than the class of 2012 their performance at the combine becomes all the more important, especially with the top names announcing they will throw at the combine.

Geno Smith is considered the top quarterback prospect and could be drafted first overall by the Kansas City Chiefs or might wind up being surpassed by one of the other quarterbacks at the combine depending on how the next two months shake out.

Geno Smith, West Virginia -- Smith is considered the top quarterback prospect in the draft and was projected as the top overall pick in the latest from Mocking the Draft. Scouts will be particularly interested to get a look at Smith because he declined his invitation to the Senior Bowl. As a senior, Smith threw for 4,206 yards and 42 touchdowns with only six interceptions. He has good accuracy and a great deep ball which need to be on display to convince scouts of his ranking.

Matt Barkley, USC -- If Barkley had decided to forego his senior season and enter the 2012 NFL Draft, he likely would have been the third quarterback taken and a top 10 pick. But Barkley returned for his senior year and struggled with inconsistency before ending his season with a shoulder injury. That injury will keep Barkley from throwing at the combine.

Tyler Wilson, Arkansas -- Wilson’s numbers dropped his senior year as he was stuck on an Arkansas team that just wasn’t very good. Still, Wilson was among the most impressive quarterbacks at the Senior Bowl and will be one of the top quarterbacks selected in April. His footwork is one of his biggest weaknesses, so teams will be eager to see him go through the various drop-backs and see if how his feet look when he throws the ball, particularly on deep routes.

Mike Glennon, N.C. State -- At 6’7, Glennon has the look of an NFL quarterback, but he’ll need to prove himself in drills. He did well at Senior Bowl practices, but struggled in the actual game. His mobility is considered his biggest weakness, something a few good drills could make look a lot better.

EJ Manuel, Florida State - Perhaps the best athlete in this quarterback class Manuel could impresses some coaches and scouts when he goes through the drills. Manuel played well in the Senior Bowl, but will need to show consistent accuracy and do well demonstrating his understanding of the game in interviews.

• ’Best player available’ and other lies

• Linemen running the 40 will inspire you

• Mike McCarthy is confused

• Players to watch Saturday at the Combine

• Mike Mayock explains why he likes big butts