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