Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Daryl Gardener (Baylor) - 1996 NFL Draft Pick #20 by MIA

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Daryl Gardener (1996 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: Daryl Gardener
• College: Baylor University
• Position: Defensive Tackle
• Height: 6'5"
• Weight: 295 lbs

Strengths:

• Daryl Gardener possesses a rare combination of size and athleticism, making him a formidable presence on the defensive line.
• He demonstrated excellent quickness off the snap, allowing him to disrupt plays in the backfield.
• Gardener's strength and power enable him to shed blocks effectively, making him a strong run defender.
• His agility and lateral movement allow him to pursue plays down the line, showcasing his versatility.

Weaknesses:

• Concerns about consistency in performance; at times, he failed to dominate against lower-tier competition.
• Injury history raised questions about his durability and long-term viability in the NFL.
• Needs to improve his technique, particularly with hand placement and disengagement from blockers.

Overall Assessment:

Daryl Gardener was considered one of the top defensive tackle prospects in the 1996 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and athletic ability made him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their defensive front. While he had some areas to refine, particularly in technique and consistency, his potential was undeniable. Teams were intrigued by his upside and ability to become a dominant force in the NFL.

Projected Draft Position:

Gardener was expected to be selected in the first round, with many analysts projecting him as a top-10 pick due to his physical attributes and potential impact on the field.