Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Matt Leinart (USC) - 2006 NFL Draft Pick #10 by ARI

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Matt Leinart (2006 NFL Draft)

Position: Quarterback

College: University of Southern California (USC)

Overview

Matt Leinart was one of the most highly regarded quarterbacks entering the 2006 NFL Draft, following a successful collegiate career at USC. He led the Trojans to two national championships and won the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 2004.

Strengths

• Proven Winner: Leinart's track record at USC showcased his ability to perform under pressure and lead his team to victory in high-stakes situations.
• Strong Leadership Skills: Leinart was known for his charisma and ability to motivate teammates, making him a natural leader on the field.
• Accurate Passer: He exhibited exceptional accuracy, particularly on short to intermediate throws, making him a reliable option in the passing game.
• Football IQ: Leinart demonstrated a deep understanding of the game, allowing him to read defenses effectively and make quick decisions.
• Experience in a Pro-Style Offense: His time at USC under coach Pete Carroll prepared him for the NFL, as he operated in a system that emphasized both passing and play-action.

Weaknesses

• Arm Strength: While accurate, there were concerns about his deep ball and overall arm strength, which could limit his effectiveness at the next level.
• Mobility: Leinart was not known for his mobility or escapability, which could be a disadvantage in the fast-paced NFL.
• Injury History: He had some injury concerns during his college career that raised questions about his durability.

Projection

Leinart was projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, with many analysts believing he would be a franchise quarterback for whichever team selected him. His combination of talent, leadership, and collegiate success made him one of the most sought-after players that year.

Conclusion

Matt Leinart was seen as a highly polished quarterback with a bright future in the NFL. Teams looking for a leader with a winning pedigree and the ability to manage an offense effectively were eager to draft him.