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James Harris () - 1969 NFL Draft Pick #192 by BUF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for James Harris - 1969 NFL Draft

Player Overview:

James Harris was a standout quarterback from Grambling State University, known for his strong arm, quick release, and ability to read defenses. He was one of the few African American quarterbacks to be considered for a professional career at a time when the position was largely dominated by white players.

Strengths:

• Arm Strength: Harris possessed a powerful arm that allowed him to make deep throws and fit the ball into tight windows.
• Mobility: His athleticism enabled him to evade defenders and extend plays outside the pocket.
• Leadership: Harris showcased strong leadership qualities on and off the field, earning the respect of his teammates.
• Experience in a Pro-Style Offense: At Grambling, he played in a system that closely resembled the professional game, giving him an edge in understanding complex offensive schemes.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistent Accuracy: While he had a strong arm, his accuracy on short to intermediate throws was sometimes inconsistent.
• Decision Making: At times, Harris struggled with making quick decisions under pressure, which can be crucial at the professional level.

Projection:

Scouts believed that James Harris had the potential to develop into a starting quarterback in the NFL. His athleticism and arm strength made him an intriguing prospect, but he would need to refine his accuracy and decision-making skills at the next level. Many teams viewed him as a project player, but with the right coaching, he could emerge as a valuable asset.

Draft Outlook:

Harris was expected to be selected in the later rounds of the draft, but his unique skill set and potential drew significant interest from several teams looking to diversify their quarterback roster. His status as a trailblazer for African American quarterbacks added to the narrative surrounding his draft stock.