Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Lawrence Phillips (Nebraska) - 1996 NFL Draft Pick #6 by STL

---

Pre-Draft Analysis: Lawrence Phillips (1996 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Position: Running Back
• College: University of Nebraska
• Height: 6'0"
• Weight: 210 lbs

Overview:

Lawrence Phillips was a standout running back at the University of Nebraska, where he played a pivotal role in leading the Cornhuskers to a national championship in
1995. Known for his combination of size, speed, and agility, Phillips was a highly touted prospect entering the 1996 NFL Draft.

Strengths:

• Powerful Runner: Phillips possessed a rare blend of strength and speed, allowing him to break tackles and gain yards after contact.
• Speed: His impressive speed made him a home-run threat, capable of turning short runs into long gains.
• Vision: He showed excellent field vision, able to read defenses and find running lanes effectively.
• Versatility: Phillips was not only a capable runner but also a proficient receiver out of the backfield, adding to his value as a dual-threat player.

Concerns:

• Off-Field Issues: There were significant concerns regarding Phillips' off-field behavior, including reported incidents of disciplinary problems during his college career.
• Inconsistency: At times, Phillips struggled with consistency in his performance, raising questions about his ability to perform at the professional level.

Projected Draft Position:

Based on his talent and potential, Lawrence Phillips was widely projected to be a top-5 pick in the 1996 NFL Draft. However, concerns about his character and off-field issues may have influenced teams' decisions as the draft approached.

Conclusion:

While Lawrence Phillips showcased immense talent and ability during his college career, his off-field issues loomed large in the eyes of NFL teams. As the draft approached, teams had to weigh his potential against the risks associated with his behavior, making him one of the more polarizing prospects of the 1996 NFL Draft.