The NFL Draft is fast approaching, and Syracuse University offensive lineman Matthew Bergeron is someone whose draft stock has been on the rise since the season ended.

Bergeron says he knows his name is becoming familiar with NFL teams. He has a chance to become the highest-drafted player since Justin Pugh was taken in the first round by the New York Giants in 2013.

What You Need To Know

  • Matthew Bergeron has the chance to be the highest drafted SU player since Justin Pugh in 2013

  • He brings a versatile skillset to the next level that he says can benefit any team

  • He also hopes to serve as an inspiration to people back home in Quebec

“I think I’m in the mix," Bergeron said. "I think I can hear my name called anytime between day one and day two. I’ll just be next to my phone pacing and waiting. I think my name can come up anytime.”

But at the end of the day, just a shot in the NFL is all he says he wants.

“I don’t put points on when or where I get drafted," Bergeron said. "I know it’s just a starting point. My goal is to have a long career in the NFL. I don’t care if I’m drafted first round or seventh round. I want to play in the NFL for a long time.”

His skill set is a perfect fit at the next level. While his ideal position is at left tackle, he’s a versatile lineman that can play any position.

“I can play tackle, guard, right tackle," Bergeron said. "I’m smart enough to snap [and] smart enough to play center. So that’s pretty good.”

But above all, he says it’s his personality that is his best trait.

“I feel like I’m a guy people want in their locker room and I feel like I’m a natural leader and that’s a good mix," Bergeron said. "Being a good athlete and good person is something teams want in their locker room.”

Bergeron, a native of Quebec, says he will always remember where he comes from.

“For the people back home, it means a lot because, you know, there's not a lot of professional athletes coming out from Quebec,” Bergeron said. “And just being able to give back and just help pave the way for the younger generation coming out of Quebec. And just showing what is possible, you know, what might be somewhere lost in the woods in Quebec, where you can make it happen if you stick to your dreams.”