Dave Szymakowski (College Stats) - 1968 NFL Draft Pick #59 by NO
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Dave Szymakowski - 1968 NFL Draft
Player Profile:
- Name: Dave Szymakowski
- Position: Offensive Tackle
- College: University of Wisconsin
College Stats Overview:
- Years Active: 1964 - 1967
- Games Played: 34
- Starting Appearances: 28
- Key Achievements: All-Big Ten honors in 1967
Strengths:
- Size and Strength: At 6'5" and 250 pounds, Szymakowski possesses an ideal frame for an offensive tackle, allowing him to effectively protect the quarterback and create running lanes.
- Footwork: His agility and quick footwork make him adept at handling speed rushers on the edge.
- Durability: Over his college career, he maintained good health and was a reliable starter, showcasing his resilience on the field.
- Football IQ: Szymakowski demonstrated a strong understanding of offensive schemes, making him a valuable asset to any offensive line.
Areas for Improvement:
- Experience Against Elite Competition: While he had a successful college career, questions remained about his ability to perform against top-tier NFL talent.
- Technical Refinement: Some scouts noted that he could improve his hand placement and punch technique to enhance his blocking effectiveness.
Draft Projection:
- Expected to be selected in the 2nd or 3rd round of the 1968 NFL Draft.
- Considered one of the top offensive linemen available, with potential to develop into a starter early in his professional career.
Conclusion:
Dave Szymakowski enters the 1968 NFL Draft as a promising offensive tackle with a solid college track record. His combination of size, agility, and football intelligence positions him as an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their offensive lines.