Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Billy Howard () - 1974 NFL Draft Pick #39 by DET

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Billy Howard - 1974 NFL Draft

Billy Howard, a standout player from University of Florida, emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects leading up to the 1974 NFL Draft. Here's a detailed analysis of his skills and potential:

• Position: Defensive Back
• Height: 6'0"
• Weight: 190 lbs
• College Performance: Howard had a stellar college career, showcasing his ability to read plays and make crucial tackles.

Strengths:

• Versatility: Played both cornerback and safety, allowing teams flexibility in their defensive schemes.
• Speed and Agility: Possesses excellent speed, enabling him to cover wide receivers effectively.
• Tackling Ability: Known for his hard-hitting style, he is not afraid to step up in run support.
• Football IQ: Strong understanding of the game, able to anticipate plays and make quick decisions.

Areas for Improvement:

• Consistency: Needs to work on maintaining performance levels throughout games.
• Coverage Skills: While good, could improve in man-to-man coverage against elite receivers.

Overall Projection:

Billy Howard was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the draft. His combination of size, speed, and football intelligence made him an enticing option for teams in need of defensive back help. Many scouts believed he had the potential to develop into a starter and impact player in the NFL.

As the draft approached, interest in Howard continued to grow, with several teams expressing a desire to add his talent to their rosters.