Heath Irwin (Colorado) - 1996 NFL Draft Pick #101 by NE
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Heath Irwin (1996 NFL Draft)
Player Overview:
- Name: Heath Irwin
- College: University of Colorado
- Position: Offensive Lineman
Physical Attributes:
- Height: 6'5"
- Weight: 290 lbs
- 40-Yard Dash: 5.1 seconds
Strengths:
- Excellent size and strength for an offensive lineman, allowing him to hold his ground against defensive tackles.
- Good footwork and agility for his size, which helps in both pass protection and run blocking.
- Demonstrated ability to pull and block on the move, showcasing athleticism that is rare for linemen.
- Strong understanding of offensive schemes, which makes him an effective communicator on the line.
Weaknesses:
- Occasional struggles with quickness against faster defensive ends, which can lead to pressure on the quarterback.
- Needs to improve hand placement and technique to avoid penalties for holding.
- Injury history that raised some concerns over durability at the professional level.
Overall Assessment:
Heath Irwin was regarded as a solid prospect heading into the 1996 NFL Draft. Scouts appreciated his combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ. While there were some concerns regarding his quickness and technique, many felt that with coaching and development, he could become a reliable starter in the NFL. His versatility to play multiple positions on the offensive line added to his appeal for teams looking to bolster their front line.
Projected Draft Round:
Most analysts projected Heath Irwin to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1996 NFL Draft, depending on team needs and preferences.