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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Preston Watkins () - 1971 NFL Draft Pick #433 by STL

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Preston Watkins (1971 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:
  • Name: Preston Watkins
  • College: University of Southern California (USC)
  • Position: Defensive Back
  • Height: 6'0"
  • Weight: 190 lbs
Overview:

Preston Watkins entered the 1971 NFL Draft as a highly regarded defensive back from USC, known for his outstanding athleticism and playmaking ability. His college career was marked by numerous interceptions and a strong presence in both coverage and run support.

Strengths:
  • Excellent speed and agility, allowing him to cover ground quickly in the secondary.
  • Strong football instincts, enabling him to read the quarterback and anticipate plays.
  • Versatile player capable of playing cornerback or safety, providing flexibility for defensive schemes.
  • Demonstrated leadership qualities on and off the field, often serving as a captain for his college team.
Weaknesses:
  • Occasional struggles with tackling technique, leading to missed tackles in open field situations.
  • Needs to improve consistency in coverage against top-tier receivers.
  • Lacks elite size compared to some of his peers, which could be a disadvantage against larger receivers.
Projected Draft Position:

Watkins was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1971 NFL Draft. His potential as a starting defensive back made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their secondary.

Conclusion:

Preston Watkins was viewed as a promising prospect with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of speed, instincts, and leadership qualities positioned him as a valuable asset for any team looking to enhance their defensive capabilities.