Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Tiki Barber (Virginia) - 1997 NFL Draft Pick #36 by NYG

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Tiki Barber (1997 NFL Draft)

Player: Tiki Barber

College: University of Virginia

Position: Running Back

Overview

Tiki Barber emerged from the University of Virginia as one of the most dynamic running backs in college football during the 1996 season. Known for his speed, agility, and ability to catch passes out of the backfield, Barber was a highly regarded prospect heading into the 1997 NFL Draft.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Barber showcased exceptional quickness and burst, making him a threat to break long runs.
• Receiving Ability: His proficiency as a receiver added significant value, allowing him to contribute in multiple ways on offense.
• Vision and Patience: Tiki demonstrated a keen ability to read blocks and navigate through traffic, showing patience before hitting the hole.
• Durability: Throughout his college career, he displayed a strong ability to handle a heavy workload without significant injuries.

Weaknesses

• Size: At 5'10" and around 200 pounds, some scouts questioned whether he could handle the physicality of the NFL.
• Blocking Skills: While he was a versatile player, his pass-blocking skills were seen as an area needing improvement.

Projected Draft Position

Barber was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1997 NFL Draft. His unique skill set made him an attractive option for teams looking to enhance their backfield with a dual-threat running back.

Conclusion

Tiki Barber was considered a promising prospect with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of speed, receiving ability, and football intelligence set him apart from many of his peers in the 1997 draft class.