Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Willie Thicklen () - 1978 NFL Draft Pick #295 by HOU

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Willie Thicklen

Position: Defensive Back

College: University of Southern California (USC)

Overview

Willie Thicklen emerged as a standout defensive back during his collegiate career at USC. Known for his speed, agility, and ball-hawking skills, Thicklen showcased his ability to make plays and disrupt opposing offenses. As the 1978 NFL Draft approached, scouts and analysts had much to say about his potential in the professional league.

Strengths

• Speed: Thicklen has exceptional straight-line speed, allowing him to cover a lot of ground quickly and keep up with fast receivers.
• Ball Skills: His ability to track the ball and make interceptions was a highlight of his college career, with numerous picks and pass deflections.
• Agility: Thicklen displayed impressive footwork and agility, making him a formidable opponent in one-on-one situations.
• Football IQ: He exhibited a strong understanding of the game, often anticipating plays and reading quarterbacks effectively.

Weaknesses

• Size: At 5'10" and 180 pounds, Thicklen's size may raise questions about his ability to match up against bigger, more physical receivers in the NFL.
• Consistency: While he had standout performances, some scouts noted that he needed to work on consistency, particularly in tackling and staying disciplined in coverage.

Draft Projection

Thicklen was projected to be a mid-round selection in the 1978 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a dynamic defensive back with the potential to contribute immediately on special teams and develop into a starting role would likely take interest in him.

Conclusion

Willie Thicklen was viewed as a promising prospect with the potential to make an impact in the NFL. His speed and ball skills set him apart, but his size and consistency would be factors to monitor as he transitioned to the professional level.