Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Lionel James (College Stats) - 1984 NFL Draft Pick #118 by SDG

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Lionel James (1984 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: Lionel James
• Position: Running Back / Kick Returner
• College: Auburn University
• Height: 5'6"
• Weight: 180 lbs

College Performance:

• James had a standout career at Auburn, showcasing his versatility as both a running back and a return specialist.
• He accumulated impressive statistics, particularly excelling in both rushing and receiving yards.
• Known for his quickness and agility, he was able to evade tacklers and make big plays in crucial situations.

Strengths:

• Speed: James possessed exceptional speed, making him a threat to take any play the distance.
• Agility: His ability to change direction quickly allowed him to navigate through defenses effectively.
• Pass-catching Ability: He was a reliable receiver out of the backfield, adding a dimension to his game that many teams valued.
• Return Skills: James was also an outstanding kick returner, capable of providing excellent field position for his team.

Concerns:

• Size: At 5'6", James was considered small for a running back, raising concerns about his durability at the professional level.
• Physicality: There were doubts about whether he could handle the physicality and pounding of the NFL.

Overall Assessment:

Despite concerns about his size, Lionel James was viewed as a dynamic playmaker with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of speed, agility, and versatility made him an attractive option for teams looking for a running back who could contribute in multiple facets of the game.

As the 1984 draft approached, many analysts speculated that James could be selected in the mid to late rounds, with teams hoping to harness his unique skill set to add depth to their backfield and special teams.