Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Steve Owens (College Stats) - 1970 NFL Draft Pick #19 by DET

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Steve Owens (1970 NFL Draft)

Player Overview:
Steve Owens was a standout running back at the University of Oklahoma, noted for his exceptional performance and remarkable combination of speed, power, and vision on the field. College Statistics:

• Seasons Played: 1967 - 1969
• Rushing Yards: 3,266 yards
• Touchdowns: 49 total touchdowns
• Yards per Carry: 5.0 yards
• Games Played: 34 games

Strengths:

• Power Running: Owens was known for his ability to break tackles and gain tough yards in crucial situations.
• Speed: Despite his size, Owens possessed impressive speed that allowed him to outrun defenders on the outside.
• Vision: He had an exceptional ability to read defenses and find running lanes, which contributed to his high yardage totals.
• Durability: Played through injuries and remained effective, showcasing his toughness as a runner.

Weaknesses:

• Blocking: While a capable runner, Owens needed to improve his pass-blocking skills to be a three-down player in the NFL.
• Receiving Skills: His ability to catch passes out of the backfield was untested, raising concerns about his versatility in the pro game.

Projected Draft Position:
Owens was projected to be a first-round pick due to his outstanding college career and potential to contribute immediately in the NFL. Teams were particularly interested in his ability to be a feature back who could carry the load and be a focal point of the offense. Conclusion:
With his impressive college stats and skill set, Steve Owens was considered one of the top running back prospects in the 1970 NFL Draft. His combination of power, speed, and vision made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their backfield. The focus for Owens leading up to the draft was on developing his overall versatility to ensure a successful transition to the professional level.