Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Leon Ward () - 1967 NFL Draft Pick #71 by BAL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Leon Ward (1967 NFL Draft)

Player Overview:
Leon Ward was a standout player from the University of Southern California (USC), known for his impressive athleticism and versatility on the field. As a running back, he showcased the ability to both run the ball effectively and contribute as a receiver out of the backfield. Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Ward possessed remarkable speed that allowed him to break away from defenders and make big plays.
• Vision: He had an excellent ability to read defenses, which helped him find running lanes and exploit weaknesses.
• Receiving Skills: His experience as a receiver made him a dual-threat option, increasing his value in the passing game.
• Physical Toughness: Ward was known for his ability to absorb hits and continue to gain yards after contact.

Areas for Improvement:

• Blocking Skills: While he was a capable offensive player, his blocking technique needed refinement to be effective in pass protection.
• Consistency: Teams evaluated his performance for consistency, as there were games where he seemed to disappear.

Projected Draft Position:
Leon Ward was projected to be selected in the middle rounds of the draft, with teams intrigued by his potential but cautious of his inconsistencies. Conclusion:
Leon Ward was a talented prospect with a solid college career that made him an appealing option for NFL teams looking to bolster their backfield. His combination of speed, agility, and receiving ability suggested that he could develop into a valuable asset at the professional level.