Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Vern Studdard (College Stats) - 1971 NFL Draft Pick #266 by NYJ

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Vern Studdard (1971 NFL Draft)

Player Overview: Vern Studdard was a standout player at the collegiate level, showcasing a combination of size, speed, and versatility that made him an attractive prospect for NFL teams in the 1971 Draft. College Stats:

• Position: Offensive Tackle
• College: University of Tennessee
• Height: 6'5"
• Weight: 275 lbs
• Games Played: 34
• Starts: 30
• Notable Achievements:
  • All-Conference Honors
  • Team Captain
  • Helped lead the team to a top 10 national ranking

Strengths:

• Excellent size and strength for an offensive lineman.
• Strong footwork and agility, allowing him to effectively protect the quarterback and create lanes for running backs.
• High football IQ with the ability to read defenses and adjust blocking schemes accordingly.
• Proven leader on and off the field, with strong communication skills.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistent technique; can struggle against faster edge rushers.
• Occasional penalties due to over-aggressiveness in blocking.
• Needs to improve conditioning to sustain performance throughout the game.

Overall Projection: Vern Studdard was projected as a mid-round selection in the 1971 NFL Draft. His combination of physical attributes and collegiate experience made him an appealing choice for teams looking to bolster their offensive line, especially those in need of a capable tackle who could contribute immediately while also having the potential for future development. His leadership qualities and on-field performance at the University of Tennessee further solidified his status as a solid prospect in a competitive draft class.
Conclusion: As the draft approached, many scouts were eager to see how Studdard would transition to the professional level, with the expectation that he could become a reliable starter in the NFL given the right environment and coaching.