Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Dave Burnette () - 1985 NFL Draft Pick #312 by IND

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Dave Burnette - 1985 NFL Draft

Dave Burnette, a standout offensive lineman from the University of Texas, was a highly regarded prospect leading up to the 1985 NFL Draft. Here’s a summary of his pre-draft evaluation:

• Position: Offensive Tackle
• College: University of Texas
• Height: 6'5"
• Weight: 290 lbs

Strengths:

• Physical Attributes: Burnette possesses an ideal frame for an NFL offensive lineman, with excellent size and strength that allows him to handle powerful defensive linemen.
• Footwork: Known for his agile footwork, he excels in pass protection, demonstrating the ability to mirror defenders and maintain balance.
• Run Blocking: His ability to create running lanes is impressive, showcasing both power and technique in his blocking style.
• Intelligence: Displays a strong understanding of defensive schemes, allowing him to make quick adjustments on the field.

Areas for Improvement:

• Injury Concerns: Some scouts raised concerns about his injury history, which could affect his durability at the professional level.
• Consistency: While Burnette shows flashes of brilliance, he needs to work on maintaining a high level of performance throughout games.
• Technique Refinement: Needs to refine his hand placement and leverage to improve effectiveness against elite edge rushers.

Draft Projection:

Dave Burnette was projected to be a mid to late first-round pick, with many teams looking for a franchise left tackle to anchor their offensive line.

Conclusion:

With his combination of size, strength, and football IQ, Dave Burnette was regarded as one of the top offensive linemen available in the 1985 NFL Draft. Teams were eager to see how he would translate his college success to the professional level.