Ray Oldham () - 1973 NFL Draft Pick #189 by BAL
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Ray Oldham (1973 NFL Draft)
Player Profile:
- Name: Ray Oldham
- Position: Defensive Back
- College: Michigan State University
- Height: 6'1"
- Weight: 190 lbs
Scouting Report:
- Speed and Agility: Oldham showcased impressive speed and agility during his college career, making him a versatile defensive back.
- Coverage Skills: His ability to read quarterbacks and anticipate plays allowed him to excel in pass coverage, often shutting down opposing receivers.
- Tackling: Known for his aggressive tackling style, he was effective both in coverage and against the run, making him a valuable asset to any defense.
- Football IQ: Oldham demonstrated a high football IQ, often making smart decisions on the field and displaying excellent awareness of offensive strategies.
Strengths:
- Excellent ball skills and interceptive ability.
- Strong leadership qualities, having been a team captain.
- Experience playing against high-level competition in the Big Ten.
Concerns:
- Inconsistent tackling technique at times, leading to missed tackles.
- Needs to improve his physicality against larger receivers.
Projected Draft Round: 3rd Round
Overall Summary: Ray Oldham was viewed as a promising defensive back entering the 1973 NFL Draft. His combination of speed, coverage ability, and football intelligence made him a coveted prospect. With some refinement in his tackling technique, he had the potential to become a starter in the NFL and contribute significantly to a team's secondary. Teams looking to bolster their defensive backfield would be wise to consider Oldham in the early rounds of the draft.