Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Jeff Hartings (Penn St.) - 1996 NFL Draft Pick #23 by DET

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1996 NFL Draft Pre-Draft Analysis: Jeff Hartings

Position: Center/Offensive Guard

College: Penn State

Height: 6'3"

Weight: 300 lbs

Overview

Jeff Hartings was a highly regarded prospect heading into the 1996 NFL Draft, known for his versatility and strong performance at Penn State. He played a critical role in the Nittany Lions' offensive line, showcasing his ability to anchor the line and protect the quarterback.

Strengths

• Football IQ: Hartings displayed excellent understanding of defensive schemes, allowing him to make quick adjustments and calls at the line of scrimmage.
• Versatility: Capable of playing multiple positions along the offensive line, primarily center and guard, which adds value to his draft stock.
• Technique: Possessed sound footwork and hand placement, allowing him to effectively engage defenders and maintain leverage.
• Durability: Known for his toughness and ability to stay healthy throughout his college career, which is a desirable trait for NFL teams.

Areas for Improvement

• Strength: While solid, there were concerns about his upper body strength against larger NFL defensive tackles.
• Foot Speed: Some scouts noted that he could improve his lateral quickness, particularly when pulling on running plays.

Projected Draft Position

Hartings was projected to be selected in the first or second round of the 1996 NFL Draft, given his skills and the need for quality offensive linemen in the league.

Conclusion

Jeff Hartings was viewed as a strong prospect with the potential to become a reliable starter at the professional level. His combination of intelligence, technique, and versatility made him a desirable pick for teams looking to bolster their offensive line.