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

Bill Kay (College Stats) - 1981 NFL Draft Pick #159 by HOU

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Bill Kay - 1981 NFL Draft

College: University of Illinois

Player Overview

Bill Kay was a standout player at the University of Illinois, showcasing his skills as a tight end during his college career. His combination of size, speed, and agility made him a promising prospect for the NFL Draft.

College Statistics

  • Receptions: 52
  • Receiving Yards: 780
  • Touchdowns: 6
  • Average Yards per Reception: 15

Strengths

  • Versatile Skill Set: Kay demonstrated the ability to block effectively as well as run precise routes, making him a dual-threat tight end.
  • Good Hands: Known for his reliable catching ability, he rarely dropped passes and was a trustworthy target for quarterbacks.
  • Size and Build: At 6'4" and 250 pounds, he had the ideal frame for an NFL tight end, allowing him to excel in both receiving and blocking roles.

Areas for Improvement

  • Speed: While Kay was athletic, he lacked elite speed, which could limit his effectiveness in creating separation from defenders in the NFL.
  • Route Running: There were concerns about his ability to run complex routes consistently, which could affect his adaptability at the professional level.

Overall Projection

Bill Kay was viewed as a solid prospect heading into the 1981 NFL Draft. Scouts appreciated his blend of skills and physical attributes, projecting him to be a valuable contributor to an NFL team. He was expected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, where his upside as a tight end could be developed further.