Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Antowain Smith (Houston) - 1997 NFL Draft Pick #23 by BUF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Antowain Smith - 1997 NFL Draft

Player Overview:

Antowain Smith, a running back from the University of Houston, entered the 1997 NFL Draft with considerable buzz surrounding his potential. Known for his combination of size, speed, and agility, Smith was a standout player in college, showcasing his abilities in a competitive environment.

• College Performance:
  • Rushed for over 1,500 yards in his senior season.
  • Demonstrated excellent vision and agility, making him a threat both between the tackles and on the outside.
  • Contributed to the passing game, showcasing reliable hands as a receiver.
• Physical Attributes:
  • Height: 6'0"
  • Weight: 225 lbs
  • Speed: Reported 40-yard dash time in the low 4.5 seconds.
• Strengths:
  • Powerful runner with the ability to break tackles.
  • Good balance and body control, able to navigate through traffic.
  • Possesses the speed to outrun defenders on the perimeter.
• Areas for Improvement:
  • Needs to improve pass protection skills to be an effective three-down back.
  • Injury history raised some concerns about durability at the professional level.

Projected Draft Position: Antowain Smith was projected to be selected in the early to mid rounds of the draft, with many teams interested in adding a versatile running back to their roster.

Conclusion: With a solid college career and the physical tools to succeed in the NFL, Antowain Smith was seen as a promising prospect in the 1997 NFL Draft. His ability to contribute as both a runner and a receiver made him an appealing choice for teams looking to bolster their backfield.