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Ronde Barber HOF (Virginia) - 1997 NFL Draft Pick #66 by TB

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Ronde Barber - 1997 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Ronde Barber
• College: University of Virginia
• Position: Cornerback
• Height: 5'10"
• Weight: 180 lbs

Strengths:

• Versatility: Barber showcased the ability to play both cornerback and safety, making him a valuable asset for any defensive scheme.
• Intelligence: Known for his high football IQ, Barber demonstrated great situational awareness and the ability to read opposing offenses effectively.
• Coverage Skills: He excelled in man-to-man and zone coverage, showcasing his speed and agility to keep up with wide receivers.
• Ball Skills: Barber had a knack for making plays on the ball, recording multiple interceptions during his college career.

Concerns:

• Size: At 5'10", some scouts questioned whether his height would be a disadvantage against taller receivers in the NFL.
• Physicality: While Barber was a competent tackler, there were concerns about his ability to handle physical play against bigger, stronger players at the next level.

Overall Assessment:

Ronde Barber was regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in the 1997 NFL Draft class. His combination of intelligence, versatility, and ball skills made him an attractive prospect for teams looking to bolster their secondary. Although his size was a concern for some, his proven track record in college suggested that he could overcome that limitation. Many analysts predicted that Barber would be selected in the early rounds of the draft, potentially as a first-round pick.

Projected Draft Position:

• 1st Round - Late
• 2nd Round - Early