Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Thom Darden () - 1972 NFL Draft Pick #18 by CLE

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Thom Darden (1972 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:
Thom Darden was a standout safety from the University of Michigan, known for his exceptional athleticism and playmaking ability. He was a key contributor to the Wolverines' defense, showcasing his skills as a hard-hitting and reliable player.

• Position: Safety
• College: University of Michigan
• Height: 6'2"
• Weight: 195 lbs

Strengths:

• Ball Skills: Darden exhibited great instincts and anticipation, allowing him to excel in intercepting passes and disrupting opposing offenses.
• Physicality: He was known for his hard-hitting style, bringing an intimidating presence to the secondary.
• Versatility: Darden was capable of playing multiple positions in the defensive backfield, making him a valuable asset for any team.
• Leadership: His experience at Michigan provided him with the leadership qualities that teams look for in a defensive player.

Areas for Improvement:

• Consistency: While Darden had flashes of brilliance, there were concerns regarding his consistency in coverage against top-tier receivers.
• Technique: Improvement in tackling technique and footwork would benefit his overall performance at the professional level.

Overall Projection:

Thom Darden was projected to be a mid-round pick in the 1972 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability made him an appealing choice for teams looking to bolster their secondary. With proper coaching and development, he had the potential to become a starter and a significant contributor in the NFL.

Potential NFL Teams:
Given his skill set, teams in need of a safety would likely show interest in Darden, particularly those looking to enhance their defensive backfield.