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

Steve McLaughlin (Arizona) - 1995 NFL Draft Pick #82 by STL

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

1995 NFL Draft Pre-Draft Analysis: Steve McLaughlin

Player Profile:

  • Name: Steve McLaughlin
  • College: University of Arizona
  • Position: Kicker

Overview:

Steve McLaughlin was considered one of the top placekickers entering the 1995 NFL Draft. Known for his strong leg and accuracy, McLaughlin's performance at Arizona made him a notable prospect in a draft class that featured several talented players.

Strengths:

  • Powerful Leg: McLaughlin showcased the ability to make field goals from long distances, demonstrating a range that was attractive to NFL teams.
  • Consistency: Throughout his college career, he maintained a steady level of performance, making a high percentage of his attempts.
  • Clutch Performer: McLaughlin had a reputation for delivering in crucial moments, making key kicks in tight games.

Areas for Improvement:

  • Kickoff Depth: While proficient in field goals, there were concerns about his ability to consistently kick the ball deep on kickoffs.
  • Pressure Situations: Although he performed well in college, translating that success to the NFL level under pressure remained a question mark.

Draft Projection:

McLaughlin was projected to be selected in the later rounds of the draft, primarily due to the increasing value of kickers in the NFL and the need for teams to find reliable options for scoring. While kickers are often drafted later, McLaughlin's skills could see him taken earlier than anticipated by a team needing a dependable kicker.

Conclusion:

Steve McLaughlin was viewed as a solid kicking prospect with the potential to contribute immediately for an NFL team. His combination of leg strength and accuracy made him a desirable choice for teams looking to bolster their special teams unit.