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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Steve Lawson () - 1971 NFL Draft Pick #41 by CIN

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Steve Lawson (1971 NFL Draft)

College: University of Southern California (USC)

Position: Offensive Tackle

Overview

Steve Lawson emerged as a standout offensive tackle during his tenure at USC, showcasing a combination of size, strength, and agility that made him a highly sought-after prospect in the 1971 NFL Draft. Scouts noted his ability to both protect the quarterback and open up running lanes, making him an integral part of USC's offensive line.

Strengths

  • Size and Strength: Lawson possessed a solid frame, standing at 6'5" and weighing around 270 pounds, which allowed him to hold his ground against powerful defensive linemen.
  • Agility: He demonstrated impressive footwork and agility for a player of his size, enabling him to effectively block on the move and execute pull blocks.
  • Football IQ: Lawson had a keen understanding of defensive schemes and was able to adjust his blocking strategies accordingly, showcasing his intelligence on the field.
  • Versatility: He was capable of playing multiple positions along the offensive line, which added to his value as a prospect.

Areas for Improvement

  • Technique: While Lawson displayed solid fundamentals, some scouts noted that he needed to refine his pass-blocking technique to compete at the professional level.
  • Injury History: Concerns about previous injuries raised questions about his durability over a full NFL season.

Projected Draft Position

Lawson was projected to be selected in the early to mid-rounds of the 1971 NFL Draft. His combination of size, agility, and football intelligence made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their offensive line.

Steve Lawson was seen as a promising prospect with the potential to develop into a reliable starter in the NFL. With the right coaching and opportunity, he could become a key contributor to whichever team selected him in the draft.