Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

John Niland () - 1966 NFL Draft Pick #5 by DAL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for John Niland (1966 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: John Niland
• College: University of Iowa
• Position: Offensive Guard
• Height: 6'3"
• Weight: 250 lbs

Strengths:

• Physicality: Niland possessed an impressive combination of size and strength, making him a formidable presence on the offensive line.
• Technique: He exhibited solid blocking techniques, excelling in both run and pass protection, which made him a versatile option for teams.
• Football IQ: Niland had a high understanding of the game, allowing him to read defenses and make quick decisions on the field.
• Durability: Throughout his college career, he demonstrated resilience and the ability to stay healthy, contributing to his team's success.

Weaknesses:

• Speed: While effective in his role, Niland's speed was not elite, which could limit his effectiveness against faster defensive linemen.
• Agility: At times, his lateral movement was questioned, potentially affecting his ability to adjust in zone-blocking schemes.

Overall Assessment:

John Niland was projected to be a solid mid-to-late round pick in the 1966 NFL Draft. His combination of size, strength, and technical skills made him an appealing prospect for teams looking to bolster their offensive line. While he had some limitations in speed and agility, his football intelligence and durability were seen as significant assets that would allow him to contribute effectively at the professional level.

Projected Draft Position:

• Mid to Late Rounds (3rd-5th)