Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Steve Thompson () - 1971 NFL Draft Pick #399 by DEN

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

Position: Quarterback
College: University of Minnesota

Overview:

Steve Thompson was evaluated as a promising quarterback prospect leading up to the 1971 NFL Draft. His performance in college garnered attention, and scouts noted several key attributes that could translate well to the professional level.

Strengths:

• Arm Strength: Thompson possessed a strong arm, capable of making deep throws and fitting the ball into tight windows.
• Mobility: His ability to move out of the pocket and extend plays with his legs was seen as a significant asset.
• Leadership: Coaches and teammates praised his leadership qualities and poise under pressure, which are critical for a quarterback.
• Football IQ: Demonstrated a solid understanding of offensive schemes and the ability to read defenses effectively.

Areas for Improvement:

• Consistency: There were concerns regarding his performance consistency, particularly in high-pressure situations.
• Decision Making: At times, Thompson could be prone to making risky throws, leading to turnovers.
• Timing: Needs to work on timing and rhythm with receivers, especially in short and intermediate passing situations.

Projected Draft Position:

Thompson was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, as many teams were intrigued by his potential but cautious about his development needs.

Overall Assessment:

Steve Thompson was seen as a quarterback with the potential to develop into a solid starter in the NFL. With the right coaching and system fit, he could become a valuable asset to a team looking to bolster their quarterback depth.