RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Carl Ward (College Stats) - 1967 NFL Draft Pick #83 by CLE

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

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

Carl Ward, a standout player from the University of Michigan, was one of the top prospects heading into the 1967 NFL Draft. Below is a summary of his college stats and pre-draft analysis:

College Stats

  • Position: Running Back
  • College: University of Michigan
  • Years Active: 1963 - 1966
  • Rushing Yards: 2,000+ yards
  • Touchdowns: 30+ touchdowns
  • Yards Per Carry: 5.0 yards

Strengths

  • Speed and Agility: Ward was known for his explosive speed and quick cuts, making him a difficult player to tackle.
  • Versatility: He was not only a strong runner but also a capable receiver out of the backfield, adding to his offensive value.
  • Work Ethic: Coaches praised his determination and work ethic, often going above and beyond in practice.

Weaknesses

  • Injury History: Some concerns were raised regarding his durability, as he had a few minor injuries during his college career.
  • Blocking Skills: While an excellent runner, he needed to improve his blocking skills to be a complete back at the professional level.

Overall Assessment

Carl Ward was viewed as a dynamic offensive player with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of speed, agility, and versatility made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their backfield. With the right coaching and development, he was projected to become a key contributor in the league.