Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Howard Finley () - 1967 NFL Draft Pick #318 by BUF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Howard Finley (1967 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: Howard Finley
• Position: Linebacker
• College: University of Alabama
• Height: 6'2"
• Weight: 230 lbs

Overview:

Howard Finley entered the 1967 NFL Draft as one of the most promising linebackers, showcasing a combination of size, speed, and football intelligence. His collegiate career at the University of Alabama was marked by standout performances that drew the attention of NFL scouts.

Strengths:

• Physical Attributes: Finley's size and athleticism made him an imposing presence on the field.
• Tackling Ability: Known for his sure tackling and ability to shed blockers, Finley excelled in stopping the run.
• Field Awareness: His understanding of defensive schemes allowed him to make quick decisions and adjustments during games.
• Leadership: As a team captain at Alabama, he demonstrated strong leadership qualities that could translate well to the professional level.

Areas for Improvement:

• Pass Coverage: While effective against the run, Finley needed to improve his skills in pass defense to be a complete linebacker.
• Injury Concerns: Some scouts raised concerns about his durability, as he had faced minor injuries throughout his college career.

Projected Draft Position:

Finley was projected to be selected in the early to mid-rounds of the draft, with many analysts believing he could be an immediate contributor on special teams and develop into a starting linebacker in the NFL.

Conclusion:

Howard Finley was regarded as a solid prospect in the 1967 NFL Draft, with the potential to make an impact at the professional level. His combination of physical skills and football acumen made him a player to watch as teams evaluated their needs on defense.