2018 NFL Draft: Key strengths and weaknesses for J.T. Barrett

ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 29: J.T. Barrett #16 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the USC Trojans in the first half during the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium on December 29, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 29: J.T. Barrett #16 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the USC Trojans in the first half during the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium on December 29, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /
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Strength: Decision Making

Any quarterback who lacks an ideal measure of arm strength or accuracy must have a trait to fall back on. For J.T. Barrett, that advantage is his high-level athleticism for a quarterback—a truth that enables him to make plays with his feet in short-yardage situations.

What must not be overlooked, however, is that one of the driving forces behind is success is something that isn’t physical: His decision making.

Barrett may not be the best passer at this stage of his development, but he knows his limitations. That’s a strength that simply cannot be understated, as a quarterback having the poise to not play outside of their abilities is one that can keep a team in a game.

It may put more pressure on the defense and the offense’s playmakers, but it’s at least the foundation for being a high-quality backup.

Barrett threw 104 touchdowns to just 30 interceptions during his explosive college career. He also completed a respectable 63.5 percent of his passes, which is again based on his ability to maintain perspective in the heat of the moment.

Barrett has work to do if he wants to be a starter, but a quarterback who pairs high-level athleticism and advanced decision making with leadership traits is an NFL-caliber player.

Must Read: Buffalo Bills pushing for trade up to No. 2

The question is: Which team will take a chance on J.T. Barrett come the 2018 NFL Draft?