Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Walt Sumner () - 1969 NFL Draft Pick #176 by CLE

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Walt Sumner (1969 NFL Draft)

Player Profile: Walt Sumner

College: University of North Carolina

Overview:

Walt Sumner was a standout player at the University of North Carolina, showcasing impressive skills that made him a notable prospect for the 1969 NFL Draft. His combination of size, athleticism, and football intelligence drew the attention of NFL scouts.

Strengths:

• Physical Attributes: Sumner possessed a strong build and good height for a defensive back, which allowed him to compete effectively against larger receivers.
• Speed and Agility: His quickness and agility helped him excel in man-to-man coverage, making him a formidable opponent on the field.
• Ball Skills: Sumner demonstrated excellent ball-hawking abilities, with a knack for intercepting passes and forcing turnovers.
• Football IQ: He was known for his understanding of the game, able to read plays and anticipate the movements of opposing players.

Areas for Improvement:

• Consistency: While Sumner had flashes of brilliance, there were concerns about his consistency in performance throughout games.
• Physicality: Some scouts noted that he could improve his tackling technique and physical approach, particularly against bigger ball carriers.

Draft Projection:

Walt Sumner was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 1969 NFL Draft, with teams looking for depth in their secondary and potential for development into a starting role. His college performance, combined with his physical tools, made him an intriguing prospect for teams seeking defensive backs.

Conclusion:

Walt Sumner was regarded as a promising player with the potential to make an impact in the NFL. If he could address some of the consistency issues and continue to develop his skills, he had the chance to become a valuable asset for whichever team selected him in the draft.