Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Steve Holden (College Stats) - 1973 NFL Draft Pick #16 by CLE

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Steve Holden - 1973 NFL Draft

Player Overview:

• Name: Steve Holden
• Position: Offensive Tackle
• College: University of Southern California (USC)

College Performance:

• Steve Holden played a crucial role on the offensive line for USC, showcasing his skills in both pass protection and run blocking.
• He was part of a talented team that consistently competed at a high level in college football, contributing to USC's success during his tenure.
• Holden's physical attributes and technique made him a standout offensive lineman in college, with notable performances that caught the attention of NFL scouts.

Strengths:

• Size and Strength: Holden possessed ideal size for an offensive tackle, with a strong build that allowed him to effectively handle defensive linemen.
• Footwork: His agility and foot speed were impressive for a player of his size, enabling him to move laterally and protect the quarterback's blindside.
• Football IQ: Demonstrated a strong understanding of offensive schemes and the ability to read defenses, which is critical for success at the next level.

Areas for Improvement:

• Injury Concerns: Some scouts noted past injuries that could raise red flags regarding his durability in the NFL.
• Consistency: While Holden had flashes of brilliance, there were moments where he struggled against elite competition, indicating a need for more consistency.

Projected Draft Position:

• Holden was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, with potential as a valuable developmental prospect for teams looking to bolster their offensive line.
• Teams appreciated his potential upside, especially for those in need of depth at the tackle position.

Conclusion:

Steve Holden was viewed as a promising offensive tackle with the physical tools and college experience to succeed in the NFL. While there were concerns regarding durability and consistency, his strengths made him an intriguing prospect heading into the 1973 NFL Draft.