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

Dale Hatcher (College Stats) - 1985 NFL Draft Pick #77 by RAM

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Dale Hatcher - 1985 NFL Draft

Player Overview:

Dale Hatcher, a standout punter from Florida State University, emerged as one of the top specialists in the 1985 NFL Draft. His combination of leg strength, accuracy, and experience made him a highly regarded prospect.

College Stats:
  • Punting Average: 44.0 yards per punt
  • Longest Punt: 70 yards
  • Punts Inside 20: 20
  • Touchbacks: 5
Strengths:
  • Leg Strength: Hatcher possessed an exceptional leg, capable of delivering long punts that could change the field position significantly.
  • Accuracy: His ability to pin opponents deep in their territory was highlighted by his number of punts inside the 20-yard line.
  • Experience: Having played at a high level in college, he was well-prepared for the transition to the NFL.
Weaknesses:
  • Consistency: While capable of impressive punts, he needed to work on his consistency to avoid shanking kicks.
  • Kickoff Skills: There were questions about his effectiveness on kickoffs, which could limit his value as a dual-purpose specialist.
Overall Assessment:

Dale Hatcher was viewed as a solid punting prospect who could make an immediate impact on special teams. Teams looking for a reliable punter with the potential for long-distance kicks would likely consider him in the mid-to-late rounds of the draft.

Projected Draft Position:

Hatcher was projected to be selected in the 5th to 7th round of the 1985 NFL Draft, depending on team needs and the overall demand for punters that year.