Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Don Cockroft () - 1967 NFL Draft Pick #55 by CLE

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Don Cockroft (1967 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: Don Cockroft
• Position: Kicker
• College: Bowling Green State University

Overview:

Don Cockroft was regarded as one of the top kicking prospects leading into the 1967 NFL Draft. His performance at Bowling Green showcased his strong leg and accuracy, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their special teams unit.

Strengths:

• Powerful Leg: Cockroft demonstrated the ability to make field goals from long distances, with several successful attempts beyond 50 yards during his college career.
• Accuracy: His accuracy was impressive, often converting a high percentage of his field goal attempts.
• Consistency: He exhibited consistent performance throughout his college tenure, which made him a reliable option for coaches.

Concerns:

• Experience: As a kicker, he had limited exposure to high-pressure situations in college, which could raise questions about his performance in critical moments in the NFL.
• Transition to Professional Level: There were concerns about whether his college success would translate to the more competitive environment of the NFL.

Projected Draft Round: Many analysts had Cockroft projected as a mid-round selection, with teams looking to secure a strong kicking option without using a top draft pick.

Conclusion:

Don Cockroft was viewed as a promising prospect in the 1967 NFL Draft due to his combination of power and accuracy. As teams sought to enhance their special teams, he was a player to watch as a potential game-changer in the kicking game.