Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Sam Claphan () - 1979 NFL Draft Pick #47 by CLE

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Sam Claphan (1979 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: Sam Claphan
• College: University of Tennessee
• Position: Offensive Lineman
• Height: 6'4"
• Weight: 290 lbs

Overview:

Sam Claphan emerged as a standout offensive lineman during his college career at the University of Tennessee. Known for his strength and technique, Claphan was a key contributor to the Volunteers' offensive line, helping to create holes for the running game and providing protection for the quarterback.

Strengths:

• Physicality: Claphan possesses an impressive combination of size and strength, making him a formidable presence on the line of scrimmage.
• Footwork: His agility and footwork allow him to maneuver effectively, both in pass protection and when pulling on running plays.
• Intelligence: Demonstrates a solid understanding of defensive schemes, which enables him to make quick decisions during plays.

Concerns:

• Injury History: Claphan had a few minor injuries during his college career that raised concerns about his durability at the professional level.
• Consistency: While he displayed flashes of brilliance, scouts noted the need for more consistent performance week-to-week.

Projected Draft Position:

Claphan was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 4th round of the 1979 NFL Draft, depending on team needs and the overall depth of the offensive line class.

Conclusion:

Sam Claphan was viewed as a solid prospect with the potential to develop into a starting offensive lineman in the NFL. His blend of physical attributes and football IQ made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their offensive front.