RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Deacon Turner (College Stats) - 1978 NFL Draft Pick #45 by CIN

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Deacon Turner - 1978 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

  • Name: Deacon Turner
  • Position: Running Back
  • College: Mississippi Valley State University
  • Height: 6'0"
  • Weight: 210 lbs

College Stats:

  • Rushing Yards: 1,400+ yards in senior year
  • Touchdowns: 15 TDs in senior year
  • Yards per Carry: 5.1 yards

Strengths:

  • Size and Speed: Turner possesses a solid frame and good speed for a running back, making him a threat both between the tackles and on the outside.
  • Vision: He has demonstrated excellent field awareness and vision, allowing him to find running lanes effectively.
  • Durability: Throughout his college career, Turner has shown the ability to handle a heavy workload without significant injuries.

Weaknesses:

  • Pass Protection: Needs to improve in pass-blocking situations to be a three-down back in the NFL.
  • Receiving Skills: Limited experience as a receiver out of the backfield, which could impact his versatility.

Overall Assessment:

Deacon Turner enters the 1978 NFL Draft as a promising prospect with significant upside. His impressive college statistics, coupled with his physical attributes, make him a desirable option for teams looking to bolster their backfield. However, his ability to adapt to the professional game, particularly in pass protection and receiving, will be crucial to his success at the next level.

Teams are likely to consider him in the mid to late rounds, with potential for immediate contribution as a complementary back while developing into a more complete player.