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Howard Taylor (College Stats) - 1969 NFL Draft Pick #305 by STL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Howard Taylor (1969 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:
Howard Taylor, a standout at the collegiate level, showcased exceptional skills and versatility that caught the attention of NFL scouts leading up to the 1969 draft.

• College: University of Southern California (USC)
• Position: Defensive Back
• Height/Weight: 6'0", 190 lbs

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Taylor exhibited remarkable speed on the field, allowing him to cover ground quickly and react to plays effectively.
• Ball Skills: Known for his ability to intercept passes, Taylor had a knack for making big plays and reading the quarterback's eyes.
• Tackling: He was a sure tackler, demonstrating tenacity and the ability to bring down opponents effectively.
• Football IQ: Taylor possessed a strong understanding of defensive schemes, making him a valuable asset in coverage and run support.

Areas for Improvement:

• Physicality: While he was a solid tackler, there were concerns about his ability to handle larger receivers and tight ends in the NFL.
• Consistency: Taylor needed to work on maintaining a high level of performance week in and week out, as there were moments of inconsistency during his college career.

Overall Assessment:

Howard Taylor was regarded as a promising prospect in the 1969 NFL Draft. His combination of speed, agility, and playmaking ability made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their secondary. While there were areas for improvement, his potential to develop into a starting caliber defensive back led many analysts to believe he would be selected in the early rounds of the draft.