Todd Marinovich (College Stats) - 1991 NFL Draft Pick #24 by RAI
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Todd Marinovich (1991 NFL Draft)
Background:
Todd Marinovich was a highly touted quarterback coming out of the University of Southern California (USC). Known for his unique upbringing and training, Marinovich was often referred to as a "robot quarterback" due to the strict regimen imposed by his father, Marv Marinovich, a former professional football player and coach.
College Career Overview:
- **College:** University of Southern California (USC)
- **Position:** Quarterback
- **Years Active:** 1989-1990
- **Notable Achievements:**
- Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year (1990)
- Led USC to a Rose Bowl appearance
- Strong arm and impressive athleticism
Strengths:
- Exceptional arm strength: Marinovich was known for his ability to throw deep passes accurately.
- Size and athleticism: Standing at 6'4" and weighing around 230 pounds, he had the physical traits that NFL teams covet in a quarterback.
- Intelligent player: Marinovich displayed a good understanding of the game and was able to read defenses effectively.
Concerns:
- Pressure of expectations: With a unique upbringing and high expectations, there were concerns about how he would handle the pressures of the NFL.
- Inconsistency: Despite his talent, Marinovich struggled with consistency during his college career, particularly in high-pressure situations.
- Off-field issues: There were whispers about Marinovich's lifestyle choices and whether he could maintain focus on football.
Overall Assessment:
Todd Marinovich was viewed as a high-risk, high-reward prospect. His talent was undeniable, and he had the potential to be a franchise quarterback. However, the concerns regarding his mental toughness and off-field issues led some NFL teams to be cautious in their evaluation. As a result, Marinovich was projected to be a first-round pick, with the possibility of being selected within the top 10, depending on team needs and priorities.
Conclusion:
The 1991 NFL Draft would ultimately determine if Marinovich could translate his college success into a productive professional career, but the pre-draft analysis made it clear that he was one of the most intriguing prospects of that year.