Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Byron Hanspard (Texas Tech) - 1997 NFL Draft Pick #41 by ATL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Byron Hanspard (1997 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: Byron Hanspard
• College: Texas Tech University
• Position: Running Back

Overview:

Byron Hanspard was highly regarded coming out of Texas Tech due to his impressive college career and standout performances on the field. Known for his speed, agility, and ability to break tackles, Hanspard was a dynamic offensive player who made significant contributions to his team's success.

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Hanspard possessed exceptional speed, allowing him to outrun defenders and make big plays. His quick cuts and agility made him a threat in the open field.
• Vision: He demonstrated excellent field vision, effectively reading defenses and making decisive decisions to find running lanes.
• Receiving Ability: Hanspard was not just a runner; he also had reliable hands and could contribute as a receiver out of the backfield, adding another dimension to his game.
• Durability: His ability to handle a heavy workload without significant injury concerns was seen as a positive aspect of his college career.

Weaknesses:

• Size: Standing at around 5'10" and weighing approximately 195 pounds, some scouts questioned whether he had the ideal size to handle the physicality of the NFL.
• Blocking Skills: Concerns were raised regarding his ability to pass-block effectively, which could limit his playing time on third downs.

Projected Draft Position:

Byron Hanspard was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1997 NFL Draft. His combination of speed, versatility, and collegiate production made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their backfield.

Conclusion:

Byron Hanspard was seen as a talented running back with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. While there were some concerns about his size and blocking ability, his explosive playmaking capabilities made him a highly sought-after prospect during the 1997 draft process.