Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Sam Walton () - 1968 NFL Draft Pick #72 by NYJ

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Sam Walton - 1968 NFL Draft

Player Profile: Sam Walton
Position: Defensive Back
College: University of Arkansas
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 185 lbs

Strengths:

• Versatile Athlete: Walton showcased the ability to play multiple positions in the secondary, making him a valuable asset for any defensive scheme.
• Speed and Agility: His quick footwork and speed allowed him to effectively cover receivers and make plays on the ball.
• Tackling Skills: Walton was known for his solid tackling technique, rarely missing opportunities to bring down opponents.
• Football IQ: Demonstrated a high understanding of the game, which enabled him to read plays and anticipate the opponent's moves.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistent Performance: There were games where Walton's performance fluctuated, leading to questions about his reliability under pressure.
• Injury Concerns: A history of minor injuries raised some red flags regarding his durability at the professional level.
• Size Limitations: At 185 lbs, he was considered slightly undersized for a defensive back, which could impact his effectiveness against bigger receivers.

Projected Draft Position:

Sam Walton was expected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 1968 NFL Draft, with teams intrigued by his potential but cautious due to his inconsistencies and injury history.

Conclusion:

Walton's combination of athleticism, speed, and intelligence made him a promising prospect. If he could address his inconsistencies and stay healthy, he had the potential to carve out a successful career in the NFL.