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Billy Taylor (College Stats) - 1972 NFL Draft Pick #109 by ATL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Billy Taylor - 1972 NFL Draft

Player Overview:
Billy Taylor, a standout running back from the University of Michigan, entered the 1972 NFL Draft with impressive collegiate statistics and a reputation for being a versatile and powerful player. His performance in college made him one of the most sought-after prospects in the draft. College Stats Highlights:

• Rushing Yards: Taylor accumulated significant rushing yardage throughout his college career, showcasing his ability to consistently gain yards and move the chains.
• Touchdowns: He was known for his scoring ability, contributing a substantial number of touchdowns and demonstrating his effectiveness in the red zone.
• Receptions: In addition to his rushing prowess, Taylor also displayed good hands, making him a dual-threat as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield.

Strengths:

• Strong, physical runner with great balance and the ability to break tackles.
• Good vision and patience, allowing him to find holes and make quick decisions.
• Experience in a pro-style offense at Michigan, preparing him for the transition to the NFL.
• Capable of contributing in both the running game and passing game, making him a valuable asset to any offense.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistent ball security; there were concerns regarding fumbles at times during his college career.
• While he had speed, he was not considered a breakaway threat compared to other top running backs in the draft.
• Some scouts questioned his stamina and ability to carry the load as a feature back in the NFL.

Projected Draft Position:
Billy Taylor was projected to be selected in the early rounds of the 1972 NFL Draft, with many analysts believing he could be a second or third-round pick due to his combination of talent, experience, and potential to contribute immediately to an NFL team. Conclusion:
As the draft approached, Billy Taylor was seen as a promising prospect who could develop into a solid starting running back in the NFL. His college performance at Michigan provided a strong foundation, and teams were eager to see how he would translate his skills to the professional level.