Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

James Darling (Washington St.) - 1997 NFL Draft Pick #57 by PHI

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Pre-Draft Analysis: James Darling (Washington State)

Position: Linebacker
College: Washington State
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 230 lbs

Overview

James Darling emerged as a significant prospect leading up to the 1997 NFL Draft, showcasing a combination of size, athleticism, and football intelligence during his time at Washington State. His performance in college football earned him recognition as a player with potential impact at the professional level.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Darling displayed impressive speed for a linebacker, allowing him to cover ground quickly and effectively.
• Tackling Ability: Known for his strong tackling skills, he had the ability to bring down ball carriers consistently.
• Football IQ: His understanding of the game and ability to read plays contributed to his effectiveness on the field.
• Versatility: Darling was able to play multiple linebacker positions, making him a valuable asset for defensive schemes.

Weaknesses

• Injury Concerns: There were some concerns regarding his durability, as he had faced injuries during his college career.
• Consistency: While he showed flashes of brilliance, there were moments where his performance was inconsistent.

Draft Projection

James Darling was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 1997 NFL Draft, with teams valuing his potential to develop into a reliable contributor on defense. His collegiate experience and physical attributes made him an intriguing prospect for teams in need of linebacker depth.

Conclusion

James Darling was regarded as a promising linebacker who could provide value to an NFL team, particularly for those looking to bolster their defensive lineup with a player who had demonstrated both skill and determination during his college career.