Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Olen Underwood () - 1965 NFL Draft Pick #183 by NYG


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Olen Underwood (1965 NFL Draft)

Position: Offensive Tackle
College: University of Michigan
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 250 lbs

Strengths:

  • Size and Strength: Underwood possessed an impressive combination of height and weight, making him a formidable presence on the offensive line.
  • Agility: Despite his size, he exhibited surprising agility for a player of his stature, able to maneuver effectively in both pass protection and run blocking.
  • Technical Skills: He demonstrated solid footwork and hand placement, which were crucial for his position. His technique was refined through years of playing at a competitive college level.
  • Football IQ: Underwood had a strong understanding of defensive schemes, allowing him to anticipate the movements of opposing players and adjust his blocking accordingly.

Areas for Improvement:

  • Injury Concerns: There were some concerns regarding his durability, as he had a history of minor injuries that could affect his longevity in the league.
  • Consistency: While he displayed flashes of brilliance on the field, scouts noted that he needed to work on maintaining a high level of performance throughout an entire game.
  • Strength Training: Although strong, further strength training could enhance his ability to handle more powerful defensive linemen in the NFL.

Overall Projection:

Olen Underwood was projected to be a solid mid-round pick in the 1965 NFL Draft. Teams valued his combination of size, technique, and football intelligence. With the right coaching and development, he had the potential to become a reliable starter on the offensive line.