Tom Beard () - 1971 NFL Draft Pick #187 by DEN
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Tom Beard - 1971 NFL Draft
Player Profile:
- Name: Tom Beard
- College: University of Oklahoma
- Position: Offensive Tackle
Overview:
Tom Beard emerged as a formidable force on the offensive line during his tenure at the University of Oklahoma. Known for his impressive size and agility, Beard was a key contributor to the Sooners' success in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Strengths:
- Size and Strength: Standing at 6'5" and weighing around 280 pounds, Beard possessed the physical attributes necessary to excel at the professional level.
- Footwork: His quick footwork allowed him to effectively block both speed rushers and powerful defensive linemen.
- Football IQ: Exhibited a high understanding of offensive schemes and was adept at reading defenses.
Areas for Improvement:
- Consistency: While Beard showed flashes of brilliance, some scouts noted a need for more consistent performance throughout games.
- Injury History: Concerns regarding past injuries may have impacted teams' evaluations of his durability.
Draft Projection:
Tom Beard was projected to be a mid-round pick in the 1971 NFL Draft. Teams valued his potential to develop into a starter but were cautious due to his injury history and consistency concerns.
Conclusion:
Tom Beard was considered a promising offensive tackle with the ability to impact an NFL team. His combination of size, agility, and intelligence made him a desirable prospect, and many teams were eager to see how he would transition from college football to the professional ranks.