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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Fran Tarkenton HOF (College Stats) - 1961 NFL Draft Pick #29 by MIN

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Fran Tarkenton - 1961 NFL Draft

Player Profile:
  • Name: Fran Tarkenton
  • Position: Quarterback
  • College: University of Georgia
  • Height: 6'0"
  • Weight: 190 lbs
College Stats:
  • Passing Yards: 3,000+
  • Touchdowns: 24
  • Interceptions: 16
  • Completion Percentage: 55.2%

Strengths:

  • Mobility: Tarkenton was known for his exceptional ability to move in and out of the pocket, making him a dual-threat quarterback.
  • Leadership: He demonstrated strong leadership qualities on the field, guiding his team effectively.
  • Football IQ: Tarkenton had a high football IQ, enabling him to read defenses and make quick decisions during plays.
  • Arm Strength: His ability to throw the ball accurately over long distances was a significant asset.

Weaknesses:

  • Size: At 6'0", there were concerns about his height in comparison to other quarterbacks in the league.
  • Experience: Limited experience in a pro-style offense during his college career raised questions about his readiness for the NFL.

Overall Assessment:

Fran Tarkenton was seen as a promising quarterback prospect with a unique skill set that could thrive in the right NFL system. His combination of mobility, leadership, and intelligence made him an attractive selection for teams looking to add a dynamic playmaker to their roster. Despite concerns regarding his size and college experience, scouts believed that he possessed the potential to adapt quickly to the professional level.

Projected Draft Position:

Fran Tarkenton was expected to be selected in the early rounds of the 1961 NFL Draft, with many teams showing significant interest in acquiring him as their future starting quarterback.